abode - issue 24

abodemagazine.co.nz

JULY/AUGUST 2016

+ BUILDING BLOCKS

We talk to experts in

masonry construction

+ SMALL HOME DESIGN Two local homes

illustrate why size doesn’t matter

+ KITCHEN & BATHROOM KNOW-HOW

Where to start when it comes to the most practical rooms of the home

hillside

HAVEN

MAKING THE MOST OF A TRICKY SITE

THE NATURAL HOME OF MARBLE AND GRANITE.

40 ACHERON DRIVE, MIDDLETON, CHRISTCHURCH 0508 4 TILES (484537)

THUNDER WHITE GRANITE

EDITOR'S NOTE

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ecently I attended the first public event to be held in the restored Great Hall – a lecture evening run as part of the Canterbury Heritage Awards. The keynote speaker was Melbourne-based architect Peter Lovell, an international icon in heritage architecture.

As most of us know Christchurch has lost a significant number of heritage buildings, and while there is no doubt that we should treasure the ones that remain, I was heartened to hear Peter note that ‘the heritage of a place is an evolving rather than static proposition’. He recognised that over time there has been a change in our perceptions of what heritage is, and that it should no longer be limited to buildings constructed in the distant past.

For Christchurch this is particularly profound as we rebuild our city. The buildings that we are constructing today are our future heritage. They will tell our story for years to come.

This issue we have a number of homes which will contribute to this future heritage footprint. One of which has already been recognised, with Alistair and Sue James’s residence, built by Avenue Homes (page 40), gaining a Highly Commended award for Future Heritage at the Canterbury Heritage Awards held in June.

One of our favourites so far, our July/August issue is a showcase of the creativity and forward thinking that is happening across our city. Enjoy it.

Lucinda Diack EDITOR lucinda@abodemagazine.co.nz

abodemagazine.co.nz facebook.com/abodemagazineNZ

PUBLISHER

ADVERTISING

LGP Consulting lisa@abodemagazine.co.nz 021 782 228

Julie Williams julie@abodemagazine.co.nz 027 269 0085

PUBLISHER'S ASSISTANT/INTERN

CONTRIBUTORS

Marine Mazella

Alana Shinn, David Killick, Hannah Paynter, Kate Barber, Lesley Storm, Mette Kristiansen, Mick Stephenson, Nikki Morris

EDITOR

Lucinda Diack lucinda@abodemagazine.co.nz 03 319 8123

PRINT

Blueprint, Christchurch PRODUCTION & DESIGN

Meagan Harbott meagan@abodemagazine.co.nz 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 lisa@abodemagazine.co.nz

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PHONE

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www.simplywardrobes.co.nz

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CONTENTS

32

48 HOMES

32 designed with love

FE AT U R E S

14 expert advice at home

Meet in-home consultants making your interior decorating choices easier

18 kitchen showcase

Expert advice on what to think about when it comes to designing your kitchen

20 it’s in the detail

Where to start when it comes to planning your next bathroom project

An architectural hill build stands out from the crowds

22 best of both worlds

40 modern heritage

24 hot water on tap

48 the perfect fit

Why back-to-wall freestanding baths are gaining in popularity

Save up to 60% on your hot water heating

26 blocked perfection

We talk to the experts in masonry construction

This cladding material offers homebuilders the best of both worlds

This unique build pushes the boundaries when it comes to small home design

54 perfecting simple

28 a standout performer

Rebuilding a Victorian townhouse in the heart of Christchurch

Striking views set the scene for a picturesque new build in North Canterbury

60 beautiful before & after

This earthquake repair has been undertaken with skill and sensitivity

A S P I R A T I O N A L I N T E R I O R S A R E C R E A T E D W I T H D E S I G N , I N N O V A T I O N A N D Q U A L I T Y. L U X U R I O U S C A R P E T S , S T U N N I N G B L I N D S A N D S H U T T E R S

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CONTENTS

40

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6

CO LUM N S

6 interior trends

A showcase of the best of the best in homeware and accessories

10 colour crush

Shades to warm up winter

12 interior passion

Step inside an interior design studio

16 pillars of success

Find out what drives this awardwinning local builder

67 places we love

Our picks for places to visit this month

69 food

Filling the cookie jar with gingerbread men

PORCELANOSA

71 gardening know-how

What you should be doing outside this winter

73 diy

Get creative with leather

75 etcetera

Diary dates, must-reads and online inspiration

80 last word

Adding value to your home

ON THE COVER

R EG U L A R S

2 editor’s note 76 shop window & directory

Designed by architect John Chaplin and built by Chris Shearer Builders, this beautiful home on the hill makes the most of its compact site.

Photography by Mette Kristiansen

DISCOVER THE VERY FINEST

102 MONTREAL STREET, SYDENHAM, CHRISTCHURCH TELEPHONE 03 366 9400

www.nextdore.co.nz

AND THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL TILES.

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INTERIOR TRENDS

INSPIRING FINDS

The latest and best in homeware, furniture and fittings for the home

make a powerful statement Setting new standards in gas fireplaces, the Escea DX1500 combines a 1500mm wide flame, 4.3 Star efficiency, Heat Ducting Technology and Escea's exclusive Smart Heat control system. The most sophisticated ultra-wide fireplace on the market, the DX1500 captures up to 90% of the available heat and returns it into every corner of the room. Using their Multiroom technology, some of this heat can be ducted into the hallway or other rooms in the home, making the DX1500 an efficient and environmentally-conscious home heating choice. escea.com/dx1500

Be it a side table, coffee table or simply a beautiful display piece, these vintage tribal drums from Corso Merivale are hard to go past. corsomerivale.nz

A LUXURY FINISH With a love of design and mastery of evolving technologies the Bisazza collection of mosaic tiles brings instant wow factor to your bathroom, lounge or alfresco living area. Or, for those wanting to create a unique look, Bisazza Custom means you can have a photo or drawing copied to create a unique personalised mosaic. metrofloor.co.nz

Covered in either tartan or gingham, these beautiful armchairs will add a touch of country charm to your interior. mareehynesinteriors.co.nz

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INTERIOR TRENDS

These on-trend taxidermy rabbits are our pick for what to buy right now from purveyors of all things distinctive, Kit & Caboodle kitandcaboodle.co.nz

a forever piece SHINY & NEW Innovative yet with a timeless finish, the Cool Collection from Quantum Flooring brings a new sense of design to interiors. The versatility of ceramic paired with a unique floral pattern allows for use throughout the home. qcg.co.nz

Having expanded into a larger store, Copper & Pink has a new range of striking furniture pieces. We can’t go past the Pop and Scott Lover Sofa. Combining soft curves with easy lines and custom-made cushions to suit your taste, this is a piece that will last a lifetime. Able to work with you to style or fit-out your home, Paula Grant and her team are experts when it comes to creating innovative, yet comfortable living environments. copperandpink.com

The little gallery with lots of art is once again providing us with inspiration when it comes to adorning the blank walls of our home. As well as the latest works

by Anne Dillon, Art Box Gallery has a plethora of works on display, offering you a vibrant, yet relaxed space in which to browse beautiful pieces for your wall. For those in need of assistance, owner Bev Frost is on hand to guide you; she is also able to visit your home or business with options, allowing you to try before you buy! artboxgallery.info

(03) 348 6351 351 Blenheim Road, Christchurch lighting351.co.nz

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INTERIOR TRENDS

Contemporary yet functional, this industrial steel television stand is beautifully crafted to inject personality and practicality into the room. javafurniture.co.nz

LOCALLY MADE With the cooler months here for a little bit longer, why not snuggle up in style under the soft creamy throws from Chain Gang. Made from 100% New Zealand Merino, each of the throws is handcrafted right here in Christchurch. The Small Creamy Rib Throw is pictured here with ceramics and artwork by Auckland-based creator Amber Armitage. chaingangstore.co.nz

Colourful and quirky, these wall-hanging giraffes from Joe Jandals are the ideal addition to that awkward wall in your home! joejandals.co.nz

Add a sense of depth and texture to you walls with this monochromatic wallpaper from Guthrie Bowron Cranford Street. Subtle yet intricate, it will have guests coming back for a second look. guthriebowron.co.nz

TM

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Suppliers of beautiful bathroomware since 1973.

New

SHOWROOM OPENING SOON!

Bathroom design by Katie Scott, featuring Plumbline fittings and fixtures.

No matter how big or small your renovation, come and see the team at Chesters.

6 Magdala Place, Middleton, Christchurch 03 335 0043 • chesters.co.nz

INTERIOR TRENDS

COLOUR CRUSH

Resene Colour Expert Nikki Morris offers guidance and inspiration when it comes to warming up your home Warm up your home this winter with a few touches of your favourite colours. All you need is to be brave and embrace colour to create a new hot spot in your home. Be it a feature wall, reading nook, your front door or perhaps an up-cycled piece of furniture, the choice if yours.

Warm colours such as reds and yellows seem closer – effectively they close in the walls of a room, making the dimensions seem smaller.

Warm colours look their best in a not-so-bright room so that the bright effect of the sunny colours is not too overbearing.

Resene Galliano

Bold colours are ideal in areas such as hallways where you don't spend too much time, as you can enjoy the colour as you move through the space, without being distracted when you’re trying to concentrate in one room.

Going bold with your front door is the perfect way to welcome visitors into your home. Not only does it make the door easier to spot, it also adds extra personality and energy to your home that your visitors can enjoy while they wait for you to answer their knock.

Resene Woodsman Heartwood

Get inspired with colours from The Range fashion colours or the Resene Multi-Finish range.

0800 RESENE (737 363) | resene.co.nz

Resene Del Toro

R E S E N E ' S TO P T H R E E F R O N T D O O R CO LO U R S

Designer: Walker Group Architects; Landscaper: Baxter Design Group; Photo: Claire Takacs

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Resene Jalapeno

When painting a front door, consider using a gloss paint finish, such as Resene Enamacryl gloss waterborne enamel, as the gloss will make your bold colour choice stand out even more.

Resene Turbo

Resene Daredevil

C U S TO M I S E YO U R S T Y L E

LOCATIONS

OPENING HOURS

CONTACT

CITY - 100 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch HOMEBASE - 199 Marshlands Road, Christchurch

Monday-Friday 9am-5.30pm Saturday-Sunday 10am-5pm

0800 749 999 global-living.co.nz

INTERIOR TRENDS

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT ARMSTRONG INTERIORS. I studied Architectural Interiors in

DESIGN

INTERIOR We talk to interior designer Angelique Armstrong about what inspires her beautiful designs

Cabinetry Design and, so, a large part of my work is the design of kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and other areas of the home that need storage. This has led me to becoming a member of the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA), which affords me first-hand access to information regarding regulations, trendings and what’s new overseas – a huge benefit to my business and the way I design. I also offer a complete interior design service, which includes working with clients on their colour schemes, both inside and outside.

YOU ALSO DO HOME STAGING. Yes. This has grown from my involvement with clients on spec homes. Offering this service has helped my clients sell to their advantage; I am able to co-ordinate everything, right down to the furnishings, and thereby present spaces in which buyers can see themselves living.

WHERE DO YOU WORK FROM? My purpose-built studio was completed late last year and gives me the benefit of working from home. With plenty of natural light and views out to the garden, it is a tranquil private space with a relaxed feel where my clients and I can work through their design needs.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR DESIGN AESTHETIC? Interior design is all about colour,

pattern and texture working together – they don’t necessarily have to match, but they need to create a harmonious flow. Interior design should be a balance of form and function. My aim is to work with classic design solutions rather than follow fads. Your interior should work for you, your lifestyle and the furniture you already have.

Found at 17 Halton Street, the Armstrong Interiors studio offers clients a peaceful space in which to browse the latest offerings in benchtop surfaces, cabinetry, tiles, flooring, wallpaper and paint.

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Photography: Meagan Harbott

WHERE SHOULD I START? For new builds, it is good to engage a kitchen designer as early in the project as possible, as we can then look at what you want and maximise the area we have to work with.

Be aware of budget. There is a lot to consider when designing and building a house; it is a step-bystep process that can take months to complete. We deal with design, timelines and budgets on a daily basis, and professional advice can help take this stress away.

We know what we are doing and can guide you through achieving your designer dream home.

03 356 2636 | armstronginteriors.co.nz

(852*/$66 35(0,80 352'8&7 ,7¶6 :+$7 <28 '21¶7 6(( Showers Balustrades Windbreaks Pool Fences

0800 EUROGLASS

www.euroglass.co.nz

44 Mandeville St, Christchurch

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INTERIOR TRENDS

EXPERT ADVICE

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EXPERT ADVICE at home Lucinda Diack talks to the experts about crafting the perfect colour scheme, and discovers the ease of working it out from the comfort of your own home

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Photo: Meagan Harbott

1. Voyager Rowan fabric in marble; 2. Mokum Couture fabric in smoke; 3. Hubbers washed linen in duck egg blue stripe; 4. Oiela Pebble sheer fabric; 5. Hubbers washed linen in duck egg blue; 6. Scion Lace fabric in taupe; 7. Godfrey Hirst Windsor Twist carpet in paua; 8. Godfrey Hirst Windsor Twist carpet in barley.

INTERIOR TRENDS

S

tanding in store surrounded by an assortment of colours, patterns and textures can be overwhelming; and for many being able to visualise a particular fabric or flooring material in the spaces of your home can be difficult. Even the process of selecting a handful of samples to take away can be a challenge.

For the designers at Hubbers Furnishings, working with clients to realise the potential of their interiors is their specialty. ‘While some clients know exactly what they want to achieve, others have no idea where to start’, shares Karin Hubber. ‘It is our job to understand what excites and inspires them, and how they want their home to feel. Working with clients in their own homes, we are able to perceive more quickly what they love and help envision spaces that will be perfect for them.’

Supporting the work of in-store designers is a team of in-home consultants, who bring material samples for flooring and soft furnishings into the comfort of your home, allowing you time and space to envision and reflect on what will and won’t work.

Equipped with a wealth of knowledge and experience, the consultants also offer one-onone advice. You are guided through the colours, patterns and textures on offer for your floors,

The first place to start when it comes to perfecting your interior colour scheme is choosing a starting point – which is often about finding something that inspires you. A mood board is where your look or theme takes life: it’s about creating something that reflects the feel and aesthetic you want to achieve in your space. The items you add to your mood board do not have to make complete sense together, as it is about painting a picture for your designer so that you can ensure you are both working towards achieving the same result.

Flatlay courtesy of Revised Edition.

mood board 101

walls and windows, and can rest easy in the knowledge that your final selection has been crafted for its purpose.

As Karin explains, ‘as well as perfecting colour schemes, it is important the right material is selected for the right use. For instance, your flooring needs in the bedroom will be different from those in the kitchen.’

Once the experts have gone, you’ll be left with a clear vision of what you want and the makings of a picture-perfect interior.

03 348 2954 | hubbers.co.nz

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BUILDING

PILLARS OF SUCCESS We discover what drives award-winning Christchurch builder Mark Prosser

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or many of us, building a home is an intricate process of fulfilling needs, satisfying wants and realising dreams; and while the end result makes it all worthwhile, the journey can be one that we wouldn’t wish to repeat. Which is why partnering with the right builder is essential. Not only one who is suited to the job at hand, but one who understands the complexities of your design, complements your architect, and, of course, one who values communication and your role in the process.

‘I’ve spent almost thirty years in the building trade, creating a process that not only ensures great results for my clients, but that gives the architects I partner with the confidence to know that my team and I will deliver their vision.’

Despite describing himself as ‘an architect’s builder’, Mark Prosser places immense value on the client and the journey they are embarking on.

‘We want our clients to love the process just as much as we do’, he shares.

Basking in sun from its north facing position, this residence was a 2015 Gold Award Winner at the Canterbury House of the Year awards 2015.

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Mark’s wife and business partner Melissa is a chartered accountant, and plays an integral part in the business and build; she is tasked with ensuring each project adheres to timeframes and satisfies the clients’ needs.

‘We have built our business around four core pillars, and we believe our approach to building award-winning, architecturally-designed homes is unique’, explains Mark.

With a proven track record in high-end builds, their involvement in projects is often driven by the designer: ‘they know by engaging us that we will get the job done to the highest standards’, explains Mark. This is what makes Mark a preferred builder for architects who recommend him to clients and why it is the first of their core pillars.

The second pillar is ensuring that every Mark Prosser home is a premium build. Utilising only the best materials, the best people and a proven process, which they have fine-tuned over thirty years, Mark and his team deliver a premium result every time, as reflected in the numerous awards for workmanship that the company has won. ‘Building premium homes requires laser precision’, shares Mark – another of their core pillars.

‘Building a beautiful home is all about the details. That’s why my clients know their budget is in good hands. I’m all about the details and keeping everyone on the same page.’

For Mark and Melissa, however, perhaps the most important driver behind their process is ensuring each project is personal. ‘Mark Prosser isn’t just the name on the door’, explains Melissa.

‘Each project carries Mark’s own personal guarantee of workmanship.’

With a dedicated site foreman on hand from start to finish, homebuilders are guided through the process step-by-step. Undertaking every build as if it were his own, this is Mark’s guarantee that his clients will be delighted with the end result and proud to have had Mark Prosser Builders on their special build.

03 352 2640 | markprosserbuilders.co.nz

interior concepts custom made furnishings distinctive accessories

145 victoria street / 03 3667300 / belleinteriors.co.nz / established 1979

D E S I G N & I N N O VAT I O N

KITCHENS

kitchen

SHOWCASE

Riva Concrete

With 14 kitchens in their new showroom, we talk to Charlotte Neale from Palazzo Kitchens & Appliances about how they can help plan and create your dream kitchen

Focus Ultra Gloss

T

he kitchen is one of the most important spaces in your home so it is essential you get it right. Working alongside a designer will ensure the materials and technologies you are embracing are suitable for your and your family’s needs. But where do you start?

For award-winning kitchen experts at Palazzo Kitchens & Appliances, it is about knowing what is out there. A showcase of real working kitchens, their showroom allows homeowners to walk through and experience actual kitchens, giving them a hands-on understanding of different technologies, materials and design layouts. Offering both inspiration and ideas around the finishing touches, their showroom is coupled with a team of experienced designers to ensure your kitchen is one that has been crafted to meet your individual needs, while maximising your space and budget.

‘Our kitchens are manufactured in Germany’, shares Victoria Street Branch Manager, Charlotte Neale, ‘so we know what is out there, both nationally and internationally, ensuring we have access to amazing finishes and fittings.

kitchen technology ‘The innovative systems available now are incredible’, shares Charlotte. ‘The construction of the joinery in addition to the well-thought-out fitting technology will give you many happy years of use.’ Of particular note is the Profi Plus drawer system and Sensys Hinges. The Profi Plus drawer system has an extremely high quality steel frame that gives it a gorgeous, modern and timeless look.

The system load capacity ranges from 40-80kgs per drawer, dependent on the size of the drawer. While the multi awardwinning Sensys Hinge with integrated cushioning is the latest and best in soft-close technologies.

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D E S I G N & I N N O VAT I O N

benchtops

Handle-less fronts automatically create a linear and uniform appearance. The unhindered straight lines that are achieved through this design feature will make your kitchen feel larger and uncluttered without compromising on functionality.

High quality lacquer fronts or perfectly crafted matt fronts, with seamless, laser-welded edges are the best way to achieve this look, in particular the Line-N System from Germany – an ergonomically-shaped recessed handle that is perfectly positioned on the carcase to enable comfortable access to doors, drawers and pull-outs.

Photography: Kate Claridge

no handles

For kitchen worktops, the recommended finishes are high pressure laminates, acrylic, engineered stones, stainless steel and granite.

‘It is important to find a nonporous and stain-resistant surface’, explains Charlotte. ‘Our team of experts are able to guide and assist you through selecting a practical solution to meet your requirement.’

The Nobilia high pressure laminate worktop surfaces demonstrate a high degree of resistance to scratching and abrasion. This is to ensure that the worktops can withstand the wear associated with continuous household use.

Corian acrylic benchtops offer a sculptural and seamless aesthetic with durable and practical functionality, and are often used as the solution to eliminate joins. Granite is a natural product so every piece is unique; while quartz stone, also known as composite or engineered stone, is popular for its durability, consistent appearance and wide range of colours.

Germonimo

door fronts Palazzo uses only the best of materials, which means that when it comes to your kitchen door design, whether you choose white, coloured, glossy, glass, matt or textured, Palazzo ensures you select something just right for you.

Textured door fronts are a practical and hardwearing option, and textured laminates have been at the forefront of European kitchen design for many years. Palazzo's choices of finishes continue to grow to showcase a vast range of high pressure, high quality laminates replicating wood, concrete and stones. When choosing a laminate, it is important to select a high pressure option that has been through rigorous testing.

Matt or Gloss lacquers are incredible, as they feature state-ofthe-art processing technologies and the highest quality materials; however they need to be installed and cared for correctly. Multilayered fronts are hardwearing and easy to clean when applied correctly.

Acrylics and Glass door fronts offer an exquisite shine and depth for a look that is unsurpassed. Offering easy care and strength, they are optimal for Structura 400 kitchen furniture.

03 366 6948 | palazzokitchens.co.nz J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 16

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Images showcase Plumbline bathroom fittings and furniture, available from Chesters Plumbing and Bathroom

D E S I G N & I N N O VAT I O N

BATHROOMS

IT’S IN THE

detail

After the kitchen, the bathroom is the most expensive area of the home to build or renovate, so it is essential you get it right. Hannah Paynter from Chesters Plumbing & Bathroom offers advice as to where to start

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well-designed bathroom has a huge impact on your household’s routine and harmony: precluding those arguments that arise over use of the space – whose turn it is, and whose things go where – and offering a whole new level of comfort and relaxation. The look of your bathroom is inextricably tied to, and influenced by, the rest of your home. Continuity in colour, style and fittings from your kitchen and living areas will ensure your bathroom blends with the house design as a whole.

However, it is important to remember that your bathroom is a utility area, so less is more when it comes to personal touches, particularly if the bathroom in question is to be used by guests. Drawers are a great way to store items such as toilet paper, soap and towels, as well as hide your personal items – keeping the bathroom clean and uncluttered.

When planning your bathroom, the first thing you should do is sit down and make a list, including: things you must have in the space, things that would be nice to have, and things you don’t need. This will allow you to prioritise your budget. Also, consider who uses your bathroom, now and looking into the future. How many drawers and shelves do you need in the vanity? Do you want a bath? If you have a shower unit with doors, is there going to be enough space to open them?

Despite being a utility area in the home, the bathroom is also a space for relaxation, so it needs to be designed with both concepts in mind.

D E S I G N & I N N O VAT I O N

colour From your vanity, to the walls, to the floor, colour is an important consideration across all surfaces.

Lighter colours will reflect light and make your space look larger, while dark and contrasting colours will absorb the light making the room appear smaller. The use of the same or similar colours across all surfaces will allow the eye to move seamlessly across the space, making the area appear larger.

One of the easiest ways to bring pops of colour and pattern to your bathroom is through towels and accessories. Simple additions which can easily be changed out.

floors + walls In wet areas what is underneath is just as important as your surfaces. It is paramount to prevent your walls and floors from swelling and rotting as a result of moisture ingress.

However donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t scrimp on the floor and wall surfaces. Although the bulk of the effort and cost goes into completing the work underneath, the surfaces are what you will be looking at day in, day out.

fittings Invest in good quality fittings. What may seem like a bargain at the start may end up costing a lot more than you saved when it fails. There is nothing worse than having to remove beautifully-laid tiles because the fifty-dollar shower mixer that you bought off Trade Me failed.

Stick with reputable brands that have been around for a while; this way, if you need a spare part in the future, it will be easier to track it down. By buying new you are also ensuring your vanity surfaces and so forth are hygienic from the outset. Think about the materials you are introducing to your bathroom as you want them to be sealed and easy to clean.

03 335 0053 | chesters.co.nz

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BATHROOMS

BOTH WORLDS Lesley Storm from Edward Gibbon offers an insight into why back-to-wall freestanding baths are gaining in popularity

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or centuries we have luxuriated in baths.

Providing relaxation and the chance to unwind, while doubling as a practical addition to the family bathroom, baths are an essential inclusion in the creation of our homes.

More and more we are seeing a shift towards back-to-wall baths. Delivering the practical benefits of being flush against the wall, while providing the modern look of a freestanding bath, it is easy to understand why.

More cost-effective and easier to install than a typical drop-in bath that requires a cradle and tiling around it, a back-to-wall option also saves in space. It provides a good sized internal bathing cavity, but the overall size actually returns a saving on floor space in the bathroom. Meanwhile the back-to-wall bath satisfies the modern demand for simple elegance, bringing a feeling of sophistication and luxury.

Building on their successful Contro Bath range, Athenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Contro Corner Bath offers the same benefits of a back-to-wall with the extra benefit of enabling installation into the corners of the room.

Made from sanitary-grade acrylic, these baths sit flush against the wall and have a full contoured skirt, meaning there are no hidden gaps behind the bath that can be difficult to clean. There is also an optional factory-fitted 15mm aluminium upstand that can be fitted to back edges, enabling a watertight seal between the bath and wall lining/tiles. The waste position is at one end of the bath and tapware can be mounted either on the integrated shelf of the bath or wall-mounted above it.

03 366 7137 | edwardgibbon.co.nz athena.co.nz

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OPTIONS FOR E V E RY B AT H R O O M The new Contro Corner Bath from Athena comes in both right- and lefthand versions, so regardless of your bathroom layout, they have you covered.

Contro 1600 (left hand waste)

Contro 1600 (right hand waste)

Contro 1600 (standard back-to-wall model)

D E S I IGNNT E&R I O NR N OTVAT R E NI O DN S

Delivering the practical benefits of being flush against the wall, while providing the modern look of a freestanding bath, it is easy to understand why back-to-wall baths are proving popular.

finishing touch The Waipori and Aroha ranges from Methven make ideal companions for the Athena Contro Bath range, complementing the design while ticking all the boxes for practicality.

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1. Aroha shower mixer; 2. Waipori shower mixer; 3. Waipori wall-mounted bath spout; 4. Waipori wall-mounted faucet; 5. Aroha 3 hole bath set.

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D E S I G N & I N N O VAT I O N

WATER HEATING

HOT WATER

on tap

Delivering up to 60% savings on your water heating, the latest hot water solution from Rinnai is hard to go past. Lesley Storm from Edward Gibbon explains

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D E S I G N & I N N O VAT I O N

From a family home bursting with teenagers,

to a bach used on summer weekends, Rinnai offers solutions to ensure you never run out of hot water

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ighly regarded for their solutions when it comes to water and home heating, Rinnai offers a wide range of models to cater for any and all water usage needs: from a family home bursting with teenagers, to a bach used on summer weekends, Rinnai offers solutions to ensure you never run out of hot water.

Designed to make life easier, the Rinnai Infinity VT continuous flow gas water heater provides you with an endless supply of hot water; and, because water is only heated as needed, you don’t pay to store hot water, which is easier on both the pocket and the planet.

With the Rinnai Infinity VT, the unit can be installed inside the ceiling cavity or outside – the hot water cupboard is a thing of the past, meaning more storage space in your home. With models suitable for areas with piped natural gas and where bottled LPG is delivered to your door, the Rinnai Infinity VT gas water heater ignites electronically and heats the incoming water to your desired temperature.

By adding a digital controller that lets you set the temperature of your water quickly and easily, the system ensures you are in control. The Bathroom Deluxe controllers have a useful Bathfill set-and-forget function and, just like the compact controllers, prevent temperature fluctuations.

The Rinnai Infinity VT gas water heater is the perfect partner for water efficient tapware, with innovative technology that delivers lower flows while maintaining the same performance and efficiency typically delivered with high water flow rates.

With a quick phone call to your local gasfitter you can find out if natural gas is available in your area. If you’re lucky enough to live in a street that enables your energy supplier to deliver natural gas to your door, you can save up to 60% on your running costs, when compared with the cost of running an electric storage cylinder. It’s a winter miracle! And if you’re not, LPG is a great alternative and still saves you up to 15% on your running costs. rinnai.co.nz edwardgibbon.co.nz | 03 366 7137

three options at a glance RINNAI INFINITY VT with valve 1 technology that delivers daily

efficiency for busy lives.

RINNAI INFINITY HD offers heavy 2 duty water heating for large

homes with high demand and commercial installations.

INFINITY EF focuses 3 onRINNAI the utmost efficiency, using

condensing technology to deliver further savings to you and your household.

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BUILDING MATERIALS

BLOCK BY BLOCK

We talk to second-generation brick and block layer Steve Canavan from Coastal Brick & Block about what makes masonry construction so special

TELL US A BIT ABOUT WHAT YOU DO. We do everything. While we specialise in architectural homes on the hill, we do a lot of Oamaru and Hinuera stonework, structural support work, feature blockwork such as fire surrounds, brick veneers, polished blocks, stack bond work, and the list goes on.

As a professional team we strive to be the best, not just with regard to the quality of workmanship, but throughout the process to ensure the job goes as planned. We have been in operation for a number of years, which means we know and understand the local building environment. Our clients get not only a high-quality solution, but one that has been crafted for the local region, based on years of knowledge and experience.

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HAVE THE CANTERBURY EARTHQUAKES GENERATED ANY MYTHS ABOUT HEAVYWEIGHT BUILDING MATERIALS? Right through to the late

80s, most concrete block walls were only partly filled and included very little reinforcing. With the force of the Canterbury Earthquakes, they were always going to fail. While brickwork bore the brunt of media attention, it is important to remember that the failings were due to old methods and technology.

WHY WOULD I OPT FOR MASONRY OVER ANOTHER CLADDING MATERIAL? Historically,

brick has been the preferred cladding system in New Zealand. And this remains the case. Embracing block work today means bringing a natural texture and finish to your home, whilst capitalising on

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W H AT OTHERS A R E SAY ING ‘Our business has had an association with Coastal Brick & Block for around 10 years. Steve and the team understand the detail and level of finish required in the residential architectural market like few others do, and deliver a high quality product time and time again.’

CLIVE BARRINGTON, BUILDER

a number of other advantages such as its high fire resistance, acoustic benefits and, because blockwork is a natural heat conductor, its energy efficiency.

WHAT IS YOUR TOP TIP FOR THOSE LOOKING TO BUILD OR RENOVATE? A top-quality build

starts from the foundations, but it is essential that you choose your builder wisely, making sure you are comparing apples with apples. Time and time again, we see projects getting into trouble.

Sometimes the cheapest option isn’t the most cost-effective. When it comes to architectural builds especially, choosing a builder with experience in the type of home you are building means that they have done it before and have the ability to overcome challenges, even prevent them from arising.

WHAT TRENDS ARE WE SEEING IN THE USE OF BRICK AND BLOCKS IN THE HOME? As well as

solid retaining work in the hills, we are engaged to do a lot of stack bonded polished blockwork.

Achieving a contemporary aesthetic, stack bonding is all about clean straight lines, so the blocks are stacked directly on top of one another to create strong horizontal and vertical lines, rather than having them offset.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE PROJECT? I have worked on two high country stations – both very large homes – over the past twelve years, and I really enjoyed getting the team together to embark on a large project.

We have also just completed a large black stack-bond home in Colombo Street, which was a great job and all about attention to detail.

03 981 2122 | coastalbrickandblock.co.nz J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 16

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L CLADDING

A STANDOUT PERFORMER Offering an elegant profile, design flexibility and performance advantages, James Hardie’s Linea Oblique Weatherboard is a standout performer.

Kate Barber explains

ightweight and engineered to withstand New Zealand’s harshest weather conditions, James Hardie’s Linea Oblique Weatherboard offers a striking, yet inviting profile, as well as opening up manifold options for colour and design.

For David Reid Homes Canterbury, the combination of its exciting new profile, design flexibility and performance advantages rendered it the perfect cladding option to use on their latest Christchurch show home.

The weatherboard cladding system, which has been installed horizontally and offset by designer schist masonry, is certainly creating an impression with visitors to the show home. ‘It really makes the home stand out. People are really struck by it, and interested in finding out more about the product’, says General Manager, Chris Solly.

‘Unlike other lightweight cladding, which is being used on TC2 and TC3 land, the Linea Oblique Weatherboard allowed us to use a darker colour on the exterior’ – in this case Dulux Castlecliffe. As Chris explains to visitors, ‘it opens up the full colour palette, giving people so many more options’.

‘The 200mm wide profile offers a new look and the negative scooped detailing creates shadowing on the board’, explains Chris. While reminiscent of traditional weatherboard – what Chris refers to as ‘old school weatherboard’ – ‘it offers something elegant and contemporary’.

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He is also quick to extol its performance benefits and, in particular, its suitability to the Canterbury environment. 'As a lightweight cladding it is ideal for use in Christchurch.' Additionally, ‘because it is cement-based rather than wood, it offers fire resistance.’

And it is not just David Reid Canterbury embracing this new addition, with David Reid Show Homes in Wellington and Bay of Plenty also clad in Linea Oblique Weatherboard.

This latest addition to the James Hardie weatherboard range offers something new. ‘It is a modern take on rusticated profiles, and offers an elegant design that combines the best features from traditional styles and contemporary elements’, explains James Hardie Manager for Volume Builders, Troy Spence. It exudes a timeless quality, presenting a profile that is at once familiar and new.

Troy highlights the versatility that the lightweight cladding material offers. ‘It can be used in new residential and medium density applications’, he shares. ‘It can add value to a home improvement project as a durable re-clad option and can even be used effectively as an interior feature wall.’

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promises outstanding performance advantages. ‘As with all James Hardie fibre cement products, Linea Oblique Weatherboard is resistant to fire, moisture damage and rot’, explains Troy. ‘This exceptional durability and stability means it won’t warp in the sun, so you can paint it any colour you like, even the darker shades.’

Whereas with timber weatherboards you are generally limited in the range of colours that can be used, Linea Oblique Weatherboard opens up the full range. Added to this, ‘the weatherboard offers design flexibility in that it can be installed both horizontally and vertically’, continues Troy.

Offering endless options in terms of installation and design, the latest addition to the James Hardie weatherboard range is certainly attracting attention as people recognise the possibilities it presents – for creating a sophisticated and inviting exterior or for invigorating an interior.

James Hardie Linea Oblique Weatherboard is more than just a product of the moment: sophisticated and contemporary, it has been engineered to withstand New Zealand’s harshest weather conditions. This standout performer will, as Troy explains, ‘stand the test of time’.

0800 808 868 | jameshardie.co.nz

D E S I G N & I N N O VAT I O N

For David Reid Homes Canterbury, the combination of its exciting

new profile, design flexibility and performance advantages rendered it the perfect cladding option to use on their latest Christchurch show home.

While reminiscent of traditional rusticated weatherboard, James Hardieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Linea Oblique Weatherboard cladding offers homebuilders not only endless possibilities when it comes to design, colour and installation, but a plethora of performance benefits - ensuring your home is both aesthetically pleasing and safe.

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DESIGNED with love

BUILT BY CHRIS SHEARER BUILDERS, THIS BEAUTIFUL HOME WAS DESIGNED BY ARCHITECT JOHN CHAPLIN TO PROVIDE THE ULTIMATE IN SUN-FILLED HILLSIDE LIVING FOR HIS DAUGHTER AND SON-IN LAW WO R DS LU C I N DA D IAC K

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P H OTOG R AP H Y M E T TE K R I S TIAN S EN

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T

alking to John Chaplin, of Chaplin Crooks Architects, it is immediately apparent that he is a man with two great passions: architecture and his family. The combination of these has resulted in a striking new home on the hill.

Like many homebuilders, once they found the perfect section, Amy and Lance Vincent called on their architect to help them to craft the perfect design. For Amy, this architect happened to be Dad. For both parties, mixing work and family was a seamless process based on mutual respect and trust. This is the third home John has designed for the couple, and traces of the previous homes are identifiable in this latest venture. Smaller than their previous section, the compact site required

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detailed planning to ensure it capitalised on the sun and leafy surrounds, without opening the home up to the elements or blocking views.

Working alongside John was engineering company Lewis & Barrow. Having collaborated for a number of years, Chaplin Crooks Architects and Lewis & Barrow have established a deep trust and respect, allowing them to achieve the best of the best for their clients â&#x20AC;&#x201C; aesthetically outstanding builds which have been engineered to perfection.

Specialising in all areas of structural and civil engineering design, the company worked with John to provide a site investigation and feasibility, which ultimately saw them involved in the design and engineering of the retaining walls, concrete foundations, reinforced block ground-floor walls,

KITCHEN/DINING

Designed by architect John Chaplin to capitalise on all that the site has to offer, the central living area flows east to west, with living areas at either end.

European Oak boards in White Country from Unico Italiano grace the floor.

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timber floor joists, steel beams and timber rafters.

However, being Christchurch and, in particular, a hill site, it was the completion of shallow geotechnical investigations which gave Amy and Lance the peace of mind their design would be fit for family living. ‘You have to understand hill sites in order to capitalise on what the site has to offer’, explains John, ‘and part of this is understanding what lies beneath’. Extensive experience with hill designs in his back pocket, and a personal love for the hills – living only minutes away – John offers a unique perspective when it comes to tackling these challenging sites.

‘Not only do they require detailed engineering

but the design needs to complement and enhance what is there’, he continues. ‘Like many sites, this one called for a circulation of space, which essentially is about achieving a double-ended interior space.’ A design which offers living spaces – be they inside or out – at either end of the home to capture both morning and afternoon sun.

Flowing east to west, the open-plan nature of the living area provides a central space for family life, while seamlessly achieving distinct areas.

Found on the upper of the two levels, it is this space that Amy credits as her favourite in the home.

Entering the property, it is the combination of exterior materials that instantly grabs your

www.ccarchitects.co.nz 1091 ferry road 384 9602

CHAPLIN CROOKS

architects J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 16

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For both parties, mixing work and family was a seamless process based on mutual respect and trust. attention. ‘We wanted our home to make a statement, yet blend in’, shares Amy. At first glance the home appears as though it is a simple black box, and it is only at second glance that the materials start to reveal themselves.

Painted FlaxPod, the corrugated Colorsteel is highlighted by Shadowclad, which is painted Nero.

The textural combination is then offset by the addition of Corten steel, which appears to frame the garage. ‘Lance was the driving force behind the steel’, offers Amy. ‘I knew I wanted to use Corten steel from day one’, he shares, ‘and the way it extends up beyond the garage to offer privacy as well as texture to the upstairs deck is better than we could have hoped for’.

For Lance, a builder himself, the decision as to who would translate the design from paper to three-dimensional reality was an important one.

Having worked alongside Chris Shearer before, Lance knew he could trust him and his team to execute the flawless finish they sought.

‘Building a house for a builder can be daunting’, shares Lance. ‘But Chris Shearer Builders did a wonderful job. They were hands-on, approachable and always available to talk things through.’

Operating for over forty years, the boutique building company is recognised for their eye for detail and friendly, reliable service. And their

experience in the local environment ensures they are well-equipped to deal with the challenges of the Christchurch landscape.

For site foreman Willem Shearer, the architectural detailing of this home combined with the unique hill site presented the construction team with the opportunity to showcase their talents. ‘In all of our builds we ensure our clients are guided through the process’, explains Willem.

‘In this instance Lance and Amy were involved every step of the process, and we were able to collaborate closely with them from start to finish.’

Willem also identifies the combination of exterior cladding materials as a standout feature, and is quick to point out that the quirkiness of the building continues around the western side where the Shadowclad sheds its dark colour in favour of a bold, Kowhai Gold – adding interest and a sense of fun to the backyard.

‘Both inside and out, the house is sophisticated, warm and inviting’, continues Willem. ‘It is raw, yet natural and a great example of what can be achieved on a challenging, compact hill site.’

No strangers to the challenges of a hill site or to the various levels they bring with them, C3 Canterbury Ltd were brought on board to add the finishing touches to the exterior. Working with the architectural plans, the concreting team used a combination of high-grade mesh and concrete

BEDROOMS

Like the rest of the home the bedrooms feature a crisp white colour palette, with beautiful furnishings and fittings providing splashes of colour and texture.

BATHROOM

Functional, yet aesthetically pleasing, the floor-to-ceiling tiles in the bathroom feature subtle onyx veinings.

The Palissandro by Rex tile is exclusive to Unico Italiano.

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOT ON VICTORIA STREET? The fashion leader of Italian tiles, authentic timber flooring & bathroomware.

Christchurch 167 Victoria Street 03 378 3870 Queenstown At the Frankton BP Roundabout 03 451 0215

unicoitaliano.co.nz J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 16

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with an exposed aggregate finish on both the pathways and driveway.

Faced with an unusually-shaped driveway, complete with turning bay and off-street parking, C3 was charged with achieving the desired consistency without compromising on product or design. ‘The team relished working on the unique driveway – alongside such a striking house’, shares Rebecca Skinner of C3. ‘It was great to be part of such a beautiful project.’

‘Despite following a career as a chartered accountant, and not working in design, Amy has a natural aptitude for architecture and design.’

As John comments, ‘she has an excellent sense of materials and colours, which becomes apparent as soon as you enter the home’.

Of instant appeal is the oak flooring found in the open-plan living areas and impressive entranceway. The European Oak boards in White Country make a stunning addition to the home, and offset the crispness of the white interior.

Assisting Amy and Lance with their decisions around their flooring materials was Unico Italiano.

‘The house is designed to be light and open, giving volume to the living areas’, explains owner James Manser. ‘Our role was to provide solutions, which were in keeping with the simplistic design, while being practical and timeless.’

Adding subtle texture and pattern to the bathroom is the addition of floor-to-ceiling tiles.

‘An elegant, antique and ever-fascinating material, marble comes in a variety of sizes, colours and shapes’, explains James. ‘Here we used one of our exclusive ranges, Palissandro by Rex, which has onyx veinings.’ Playing on the monotone white palette found throughout the home, the tiles provide a luxurious, yet practical finish to the bathrooms, without compromising on design.

Much more than simply a flooring outlet, the experienced team at Unico are also able to work alongside clients with their bathroom and even kitchen needs. In this case they provided Amy and Lance with a one-stop shop for their bathroom, supplying New Zealand-made vanities, tapware and the beautiful bath.

While there are no immediate plans to collaborate for a fourth time, neither architect Dad nor client daughter are ruling out the possibility of future ventures. However, for now, this bold family home is everything Amy and Lance had hoped it would be, and more.

EXTERIOR Standing pride of place on the driveway, which was completed by C3 Canterbury Ltd, and connecting the home with its leafy surrounds, is the couple’s much-loved steel cabbage tree from a local Sumner gallery. A present for Amy, the rusty steel tree sits harmoniously alongside the Corten steel cladding which extends up beyond the garage, framing the outdoor living area.

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Entering the property, it is the combination of exterior materials that instantly grabs your attention.

‘We wanted our home to make a statement, yet blend in.’

A MY VINCENT, OWNER

INVOLVED IN THIS PROJECT ARCHITECT Chaplin Crooks Architects 03 384 9602 ccarchitects.co.nz BUILDER Chris Shearer Builders 027 433 0178 CONCRETE C3 Canterbury Ltd 03 349 5861 c3canterbury.co.nz ENGINEER Lewis & Barrow 03 366 4320 lewisandbarrow.co.nz FLOORING & BATHROOM FITTINGS Unico Italiano 03 378 3870 unicoitaliano.co.nz

+ Over 40 Years’ Experience + Small Specialised Team Management + Friendly and Reliable Service + Master Build Guarantee + Excellent Project Management + Design & Build or Work from Existing Plans Mobile 0274 330 178 Email chris.lyn@xtra.co.nz

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HOMES HALLWAY

Walking into this 21st-Century ‘heritage’ home, there are so many details contributing to the overall ‘wow’ effect; and Alister and Sue emphasise the special joinery in solid American White Oak completed

by Bates Joinery. At the 2016 Canterbury Heritage Awards the property received a Highly Commended award for Future Heritage.

MODERN HERITAGE WITH AVENUE HOMES MANAGING EVERY STEP, ALISTER AND SUE JAMES BUILT ANEW THEIR VICTORIAN TOWNHOUSE – AND ARE NOW AT HOME IN THEIR MODERN AND ELEGANT ABODE WO R DS K ATE BAR B ER

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P H OTOG R AP H Y M I C K S TEPH EN SO N

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hen Sue and Alister James bought their semi-detached townhouse in 2010, it had been standing proudly in the central city for some 120 years. No-one could have predicted then that, within a year, their heritage-listed home along with its twin would buckle and break in the earthquake of February 2011. ‘The double-backed fireplaces imploded, and the whole house folded like a Z’, recalls Sue. Civil Defence deemed it unsafe to leave standing and it was demolished in April 2011.

Determined to hold onto their dream of innercity living, Alister and Sue decided to start again.

They sought a home that paid homage to the era and style of the original house, yet presented a 21st-Century interpretation: a build that combined an innovative design vision with modern techniques and materials. Ultimately, they sought a home that would be perfect for them and their beloved cats, Monty and Chester.

In Avenue Homes, the couple found a company that shared their passion for the project and that was committed to delivering exactly what they envisioned. With 25 years’ experience in the building industry and specialising in high-end architectural residential builds, Avenue Homes, directed by John Calvin and sons Ben and Sam, is a family business with an ethos of professional integrity and a reputation for exacting standards

of craftsmanship – which extends from head office right through to their team of labourers.

In Ben, and his team, they found a builder and project manager whom they could trust implicitly: a project manager with a sharp eye for detail, who would ensure they felt comfortable and satisfied at every stage. ‘The day the digger came to clear the section, Ben reassured us, “we are on the job!”, explains Sue, ‘and they were – from start to finish’.

Ben and his team understand the special role that Avenue Homes plays – people’s dreams literally take shape in their hands. With that, they entrust only proven and experienced subcontractors and suppliers. ‘There are so many parts that need to come together with a project like this, and we need to be able to trust that the people on the job are as committed as we are’, he says.

From clearing the section, to cutting the ribbon – metaphorically-speaking – in celebration of a job well done, the build took just over a year.

On a chilly winter’s day in 2015, the roof went on: as tradition would have it, symbolically marking the halfway point.

On the somewhat precarious job was the experienced team from Residential Roofing.

As Dave Ellis explains, ‘we fitted the roof and associated flashings using a .55 gauge Longrun Corrugate in Ironsand colour. There were many different angles to the high pitch roof so there were

KITCHEN

Period-style lights from Lighthouse Lighting enhance the era and style that the homeowners envisioned.

With ‘darklights’ from Gamma Illumination Australia, Pendants from Lode Australia and Home Lighting, and LEDS-C4 from Spain, this is a home that is punctuated with drama and that exudes warmth throughout.

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The elegant, decidedly modern townhouse stands proudly and at home in an ever-changing city. a large number of flashings and fiddly finishing work.’ At Residential Roofing they take pride in their technical precision and relish the ‘fiddly’ work. With feet on terrra firma, Dave appraises the finished result: ‘it looks very smart’.

Sue and Alister were thrilled, and marked the milestone with a customary ‘roof shout’ – that is, celebrating over a drink, rather than whooping with excitement from ground level! As Alister explains, ‘it was in the colder months, so we all went down to Pomeroys.’

From floor to roof, there are so many dimensions to this house that deserve mentioning.

One such feature is a large wall at the back which connects the home with the neighbour’s. Rockcote Plastering came on board to complete the wall in accordance with the architect’s specifications.

Licensed Rockcote plasterers from T K Plastering applied the Monotek Cavity Plus Finishing System – a 7.5mm full-mesh system with mineral-base texture – from Resene Construction Systems.

Painted Pukekura Park to match the weatherboard timber of the rest of the house, the cladding system brings aesthetic coherence to the exterior, while offering durability and low maintenance.

As General Manager, Mike Olds, explains,

‘what all Resene Construction Systems have in common is strength and durability. But they also offer incredible flexibility, aesthetically. They are a cost-effective way of bringing texture and colour to your build’.

Although the design had to stick to the original footprint, starting again meant that Alister and Sue could re-imagine the interior spaces of their home. In fact the new layout is an inversion of the original, with the kitchen, which was once down the back of the house with the lounge, brought to the fore and integrated with the living spaces.

Downstairs, the home comprises the kitchen, family room, plus formal lounge and dining, and the bathroom; while upstairs there are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, an office and large storage area.

When it came to decorating, both inside and out, Chamlang Painters and Decorators was the natural choice. ‘We specialise in high-end architectural builds, but also do commercial and domestic work, both new and old’, explains General Manager Grant Midgley.

Grant takes immense pride in getting a perfect finish every time. Looking at the James’s house, he points to the ‘consistent coatings, not a drip or

BATHROOM In addition to their extensive selection of modern tiles, Brymac Tiles has a wide range of tiles suitable for heritage rebuild work, from Victorian tessellations to traditional Spanish and Italian designs.

Country Gris Claro Tiles bring a sleek elegance to the kitchen, while Calacatta Polished Glazed Porcelain Tiles add interest and luxury to the bathrooms. ANZ Tiling then ensured the tiles were laid with precision.

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BEDROOM

For the interior paintwork the team at Chamlang Painters and Decorators used predominantly colours from Resene. The entrance and hallway feature Resene Rice Cake, while Double Rice Cake was chosen for the kitchen and living, and a moody Half Smalt Blue for Alister’s office.

Quarter Rice Cake was used for the ceilings. Not just painters, the team from Chamlang also hung the wallpaper found throughout the home.

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run of paint anywhere’. As he stresses, ‘attention to detail is paramount’, after all, ‘it’s our work that everyone sees’.

Standing back and looking at the finished result, Grant comments, ‘every square centimetre of this property inside and out has had the care and attention to detail that it deserves. Nothing has been missed.’ And with this he doesn’t miss the opportunity to acknowledge the exceptional craftsmanship of Ben and the team from Avenue Homes: ‘they did a bloody good job’.

As Ben Calvin explains, the team at Avenue Homes specialises in high-end architectural residential builds, and each project brings something unique. Considering the stand-out features of this home, Ben comments on the ‘stunning interior fit-out with the American Oak skirting boards and architraves, oak reveals and solid joinery’.

Responsible for the impressive interior fit-out was the expert team at Bates Joinery. Specialising in timber and custom-wood joinery, Bates Joinery does it all, from kitchens and bathrooms to custom hardwood staircases and wooden doors and windows. Owner-operator, Mark Allworthy, enjoys the variety of challenges and technical expertise required for different types of projects. Whilst 44

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the original house was constructed in Kauri, with Rimu features throughout, following the architect’s specifications the team built joinery out of American White Oak and Veneer, in keeping with the traditional style of the original townhouses.

With fastidious attention to detail, Grant and the team at Chamlang finished all the joinery and skirting on both properties once it had been fitted.

‘Several hundred hours were spent hand sanding and clear coating all of the American Oak’, he explains. An impressive feat which adds to the warmth and comfort of the home.

Although she’s spoilt for choice, Sue names the kitchen and family room as her favourite spaces.

What she calls ‘the working part of the house’ is also the place where people come together: to make a pot of coffee and to chat about their day.

Not only is the kitchen more integrated with the rest of the house than in the original layout, its location at the front means that it also looks out over the street. ‘We can look at all the comings and goings’, she explains.

A project like this demands meticulous attention to the finer details and careful planning.

Ben recalls that the cranberry-coloured oversized Falcon stove that Sue desired had to be sent from Devon, England, which took the best part of five

LIVING Along with a customary ‘roof shout’ midway through the process, Alister and Sue James held a do to celebrate the completion of their home. ‘There was no ribbon cutting, but it was a nice way to celebrate’, says Ben Calvin of Avenue Homes. ‘And it was immensely satisfying to stand back and see it all completed.’

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Determined to hold onto their dream of inner-city living, Alister and Sue decided to start again. They sought a home that paid homage to the era and style of the original house, yet presented a 21st-Century interpretation months. ‘These projects are intricate, and with so many small details, forward-planning and organisation is imperative.’

At the same time, Ben and his team endeavoured to make the process as enjoyable as possible for the James’s. ‘We tried to give them as much time as possible to enable them to make the best decisions.’

With the stove Sue knew precisely what she wanted. But, as she remarks, there are so many elements to designing a home’s interior that embarking on the intricate job can be daunting and confusing. As it happened, Ben arranged for Fiona Renton at Sandalwood Design to help pull everything together. ‘Fiona and the team did everything and gave me options to choose from. It made it so easy’, says Sue. Fiona supported Sue when it came to deciding on the perfect tiles for her kitchen and bathrooms, and Brymac Tiles came on board to supply these.

Brymac Tiles has a wide range of tiles suitable for heritage rebuild work, from Victorian tessellations to traditional Spanish and Italian designs – and, with Fiona’s support, Sue selected exquisite tiles in keeping with her overarching vision for the home.

Country Gris Claro Tiles complement the sleek crown-cut engineered stone top and stunning American White Oak joinery in the kitchen, bringing an understated sophistication to the space; while, in the bathrooms, Calacatta Polished Glazed Porcelain Tiles create a rejuvenating, contemporary feel.

Ensuring the tiles were laid with precision was the team at ANZ Tiling. Specialists in tiling, the Australasian company has a commitment to customer service. ‘Our company is based on the belief that our customers are of the utmost importance’, explains director Dawood Hussaini.

‘We are committed to meeting their needs.’

The company also undertook acoustic sound proofing, paving and waterproofing.

‘Waterproofing is generally only 1.2% of a total construction project cost, but it is the cause of approximately 80% of building complaints’, continues Dawood. ‘So getting this right is essential to the longevity of the home, and of course provides the foundation for the aesthetic finish of the tiled space.’

Each of the home’s occupants has a favourite part. Whereas Sue’s is the ‘working part’ of the kitchen and family living, Alister’s favourite is the lounge and formal dining. Having said that, he spends a lot of time in his ‘working part’ – an office

that is warm and inviting, where natural light slips silently through timber shutters, where a moody Resene Half Smalt Blue complements the stunning American Oak window joinery. This is also a favourite spot for Chester, while Monty spends his days curled up on the bed.

Remarking on the details that go into creating something this special, Ben comments on the stunning light fittings, especially the pendants in the entrance and hallway, which were designed and carefully installed by Lighthouse Lighting. It cannot be overstated that the lighting throughout the house plays an essential part in optimising functionality and generating ambience. As Manager, Steve Hermens, explains, ‘we provided a lighting concept and design to represent the period and style of the build, whilst achieving the desired levels for both task and ambient lighting’.

Whether it is subtle splashes from Gamma Illumination Australia ‘dark lights’ throughout

EXTERIOR Applied by T K Plastering, a Monotek Cavity Plus Finishing System from Resene Construction Systems connects the James's house with the neighbours. Built to fit in with the timber weatherboard – rather than stand out as a feature in its own right – the wall offers durability and ensures aesthetic coherence.

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the home, or elegant exclamation marks of light leading you down the hallway, the team at Lighthouse Lighting played an integral role in creating a home that is striking as well as inviting.

Ultimately, Ben and his team brought everything together. As Ben explains, ‘we have a loyal and hardworking team’ and ‘we have good eyes on the job’. Those ‘good eyes’ ensure that every detail is attended to and the exacting standards of execution – that Avenue Homes is renowned for – upheld every time.

Sue talks about the special nature of the job with Ben project managing their build and, concurrently, the neighbour’s. ‘We found communication easy and trusted the process. We really enjoyed their company’, she shares.

After five years and, Sue counts, eight moves, 46

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the James’s and their cats are back where they want to be. They have put up all their artwork – including a few pieces that they managed to retrieve from downstairs following the devastating earthquake of 2011. The works hang in their original frames, the chips in the frames acknowledging what has happened and, rather proudly, celebrating a new start.

The couple love being back in a city that is brimming with vitality and optimism about its future. And they love their new home. The elegant, decidedly modern townhouse stands proudly and at home in an ever-changing city. At the same time, it registers and honours its history – its Victorian antecedent, the earthquakes that changed everything and the intricate process undertaken to build it.

ROOF Residential Roofing was literally on the job, fitting a .55 gauge Longrun Corrugate in the popular Ironsand colour and completing all the ‘fiddly finishing work’ to make it perfect, which includes the unusual oversized 200mm wide guttering. When the roof went on – traditionally marking the halfway point – the James’s held a ‘roof shout’ at Pomeroys to celebrate.

HOMES INVOLVED IN THIS PROJECT BUILDER Avenue Homes 027 444 1232 avenuehomes.co.nz CLADDING Resene Construction Systems 03 338 6328 reseneconstruction.co.nz T K Plastering 027 840 0033 tkplastering.co.nz INTERIOR DESIGN Sandalwood Design 03 351 1905 sandalwooddesign.co.nz JOINERY Bates Joinery (2008) Ltd 03 388 8111 batesjoinery.co.nz LIGHTING Lighthouse Lighting 03 377 7206 lighthouselighting.co.nz PAINTING Chamlang Painting & Decorating 027 2211 595 chamlang.co.nz ROOFING Residential Roofing 2014 Ltd 03 365 9808 residentialroofing.co.nz TILES Brymac Tiles 03 366 8187 brymac.co.nz ANZ Tiling Specialists 027 384 8120 anztilingspecialists.com

Architectural Homes Architectural Hill Homes Heritage Renovations / Alterations / Fitouts Design Build Options

027 269 0783

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The second level is currently used as a living space but can also be utilised as a bedroom; from here a ladder leads to a mezzanine home office. Built around a central void, the entire interior is flooded with natural light. Barnaby Lane Smith armchairs in Blush provide a cosy spot in which to relax. A Langdon LTD rug is found on the floor, while a Tanner dining chair offers seating at the desk.

All items from Copper + Pink.

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the PERFECT FIT STANDING TALL IN THE HEART OF MERIVALE, THIS INTRICATE TOWER NOT ONLY SHOWCASES THE TALENT OF BUSHNELL BUILDERS, BUT IS SET TO CHALLENGE THE WAY WE THINK ABOUT SPACE WO R DS LU C I N DA D IAC K P H OTOG R AP H Y M I C K S TEPH EN SO N ST Y LI N G PAU L A G R ANT of CO PPER + PI N K

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n the case of our homes, big isn’t always better. Small home design brings with it energy efficiencies, cost benefits and most importantly innovation. It requires creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, which yields exciting benefits. And, in Christchurch what we are building is set to define the future of our city; so it is wonderful to see such structures being embraced and celebrated.

With a construction site of five by five metres, Paddy Cotter’s ‘MegaTower’, designed by Thom Craig Architects, is one such building. Standing twelve metres tall, it boasts a garage, a living space, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, mezzanine home office (or storage space) and even a rooftop balcony with 360-degree views across the rooftops of Merivale.

Yet the largest level is only twenty five square metres. ‘It challenges the way we think about space’, shares Bushnell Builders, Project Manager, Brad Austin. ‘And forces us to think about how much space we really need to be occupying.’

‘Each floor gets smaller’, he continues, ‘yet at no time do you feel closed in’. The extensive use of glass allows the interior to be flooded with natural light which enhances the sense of space; whilst the cleverly positioned steelwork on the exterior ensures privacy, allowing you to feel entirely comfortable and at home, despite the exposed nature of the site. With the Fresh Choice car park on one side and the local post shop on the other, this sense of privacy is one of the many surprising achievements of such a small building.

With its single-line kitchen, bathroom, living space and bedroom, the building pushes the boundaries when it comes to defining what inner-city or apartment living should look like.

Having worked with owner Paddy Cotter on a number of previous projects, Brad and his team are no strangers to the architectural detailing and challenges which come with translating his projects into a reality. And Paddy is quick to credit Bushnell Builders for their involvement in the project. ‘The angles of the design and the way in which the building narrows at the top could have been a challenge, but it was one that Bushnell Builders rose to.’ With experience in both light commercial and high-end architectural residential builds, this small, yet imposing structure is the culmination of their talents.

‘It is our aim to go above and beyond to ensure we are working with our clients to achieve their dreams’, explains Brad.

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KITCHEN/DINING

Stairs lead from one storey to another, opening onto landings which function as rooms. An oversized Pop and Scott pot adds a touch of greenery to the space, while a Langdon LTD rug draws on the wooden features of the home. Pony Rider cushions, Barnaby Lane Tanner chairs and assorted accessories complete the space. All items from Copper + Pink.

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With its single-line kitchen, bathroom, living space and bedroom, the building pushes the boundaries when it comes to defining what inner-city or apartment living should look like.

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‘The angles of the design and the way in which the building narrows at the top could have been a challenge, but it was one that Bushnell Builders rose to.’

PADDY COT TER, OWNER

However it wasn’t simply the unique design of the building that posed a challenge, but the site’s tight location. Sitting within 100mm of the boundary, the building literally assumes the site, leaving no space for the delivery or storage of materials.

Highlighting Brad’s and Bushnell Builders’ dedication to detail, the project was based around a tight schedule, which included some very early morning deliveries.

‘The whole structure is made of steel’, explains Brad, ‘which was pre-fabricated offsite, before being craned into place in two sections. While this meant the bones of the building were there almost instantly, it did mean closing the road and craning in the framing at 4:30am one morning.’

Having recently picked up a Small Project Architecture Award at the Canterbury Architecture Awards, the judging panel described the building as: ‘a delightful and surprising vertical composition. It contains all the expected functions of accommodation, yet the inner workings have been cleverly interwoven and vertically stacked around a light-filled atrium void.’

Paddy appreciates innovative and stimulating architecture, and the objective with each of his builds is to achieve something that will stand the test of time, while adding to our city's landscape. ‘It is important to be different', he shares with a grin.

'And this adds a bit of spice.”

03 344 5972 | bushnell.co.nz 52

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KITCHEN Practical yet simple the single-line kitchen runs the length of one wall on the first floor which is only twenty five metres square - the largest of the four levels.

BATHROOM The bathroom is found on the second level, the same as the bedroom/living room, ensuring this building ticks all the boxes for functional, convenient living, despite its small floor plan.

HOMES EXTERIOR Built by Bushnell Builders the tower is an exceptional example of small home living.

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PERFECTING

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SIMPLE SMALL IN FOOTPRINT, YET VAST IN ITS OFFERING AND BREATHTAKING IN ITS SIMPLICITY, THIS 125-SQUARE-METRE FAMILY HOME, BUILT BY ARTISAN HOMES, IS HARD TO FORGET WO R DS LU C I N DA D IAC K

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P H OTOG R AP H Y M I C K S TEPH EN SO N

itting around the table with homebuilders Mandy and Jason Pickering and their builder Carl Sheehan from Artisan Homes, it is immediately apparent that this was a build built on friendship, respect and trust.

Following the earthquakes the young family made the decision to build in North Canterbury, having found a picturesque setting in which to do so.

With sweeping views across rural North Canterbury and Christchurch to the coast on one side, and dense forest on the other, they knew it was for them.

While Jason and Mandy knew what they wanted, they turned to Nick Yardley and Rochelle Foster of Yardley and Foster Architecture to help them fine-tune their design. ‘Jason drew up what we wanted’, shares Mandy, ‘but Nick made it work. He listened to what we wanted and pulled out the key elements that

we were passionate about: a small footprint, a separate studio, black, barn-like in shape with a pitched roof – and all within a tight budget.’

While Jason’s original sketch underwent some bold changes, the final design was one that surpassed expectations.

‘Right from the start, they trusted us implicitly to turn their dreams of living there into reality’, shares Nick. ‘The site’s exceptional location lent itself to more simplistic, unobtrusive forms, which, rather than detract from its natural setting, blend into it.’ The result is two contemporary gable forms, poised on the site’s gentle slope. ‘The larger form accommodates the family’s day-to-day activities’, explains Nick. ‘While the complementary smaller form acts as a flexible studio/garage/ accommodation suite.’

Running east-to-west, the primary dwelling boasts

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PREVIOUS Designed by Yardley and Foster Architecture, this family home comprises two gable forms, reminiscent of barns. The larger of the two is the primary dwelling, while the smaller is the studio, which was home to the family of four for ten months while they built their dream home.

Having worked in the local environment for well over a decade, builder Carl Sheehan of Artisan Homes is as passionate about this project as the owners.

an exceptional open-plan kitchen/living/dining, a family bathroom, master suite and mezzanine floor, which sons Isaac and Levi have claimed as their bedroom. For Mandy, achieving a home with ‘lots of light’ was essential.

‘We considered window placement and sizing in relation to cost restraints but also to optimise light, ventilation and views’, continues Nick. ‘Black joinery was selected to complement the black cladding and achieve the appearance of a singular form.’

Rockford Aluminium came on board to complete the joinery for the windows and doors. ‘Floor-to-ceiling windows were essential’, offers Lindsay Rush of Rockford. However, it was not just the views to be considered, but also the elements. ‘At the same time as flooding the interior with the stunning views, the windows and doors had to stand up to the strong winds which can rattle through Canterbury.’ This dual consideration saw the couple opt for the Fairview architectural linear suite of doors and windows, with clear panes of glass. ‘They add to the sense of internal space, while seamlessly connecting inside with out’, explains Lindsay.

With a background in engineering and a natural aptitude for construction and DIY, Jason was keen to engage a builder with whom he would be able to work. Having worked together at EQC he knew that Carl Sheehan from Artisan Homes was the perfect man for the job. ‘Right from the outset Carl had the ability to understand what we were trying to achieve. It had been a roller coaster of a time through the earthquakes, and we needed someone with optimism and a willingness and determination to make things work.’

‘Home building is as much about understanding the landscape and the client, as it is the plan and the materials’, shares Carl. ‘And in this case it was about understanding that this was much more than simply a barn with a pitched roof.’

‘Our passion is building homes for people who appreciate the work that goes into what will, ultimately, be a home they love to live in’, explains Carl. ‘Jason was on site most days talking through decisions, working with us on solutions when challenges arose and coming up with crazy ideas that together we would achieve.’ Surveying the finished product, and experiencing the passion that both Carl and Jason have for this project, you quickly appreciate the aptness of the name Artisan Homes: this is a company that brings technical expertise, exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to every project.

This collaborative approach was one which made the project for designer Nick. ‘We often find what makes a project

MO Tiles is committed to providing a legacy of quality and service.

Our aim is to ensure the highest quality tiling products are combined with exceptional customer service, to deliver your project on time, on budget and to exceed your expectations.

Visit 399 Barrington St, Spreydon, Christchurch

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Call 03 338 0155

Email info@motiles.co.nz

motiles.co.nz

HOMES

exceptional is when the collaboration between designer, builder and client evolves into a trusting friendship: ideas then flow between the parties and results are obvious in the completed home. The quality of building from Artisan Homes is outstanding.’

While Mandy is quick to point out that the build was ‘Jason’s project’, there are traces of Mandy’s natural elegance and style in the finishing details. Organic, textured and bringing a raw aesthetic to the kitchen is the addition of Campari tiles from MO Tiles.

Boasting an array of tiles from around the world, MO Tiles follows the principle that less can be more in a sometimes-

MEZZANINE Isaac (14) and Levi (12) made the decision to share a bedroom on the mezzanine level. The space includes a door, which opens up to the display shelving unit above the kitchen.

KITCHEN The concrete bench was poured by Jason and his Dad, and is enhanced by the raw, tactile nature of the splashback, which comprises Campari tiles from MO Tiles.

“Creative architecture is not about building the biggest home you can afford, it’s about designing the best home for your style of living.”

The creative duo of Nicholas Yardley & Rochelle Foster redefine the use of forms, spaces & materials to create elegant architecture.

Upstairs at Merivale Mall, Christchurch 03 355 7952 yardleyandfoster.nz

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overwhelming industry of home improvement choices. ‘You need to choose your tiles carefully, with longevity in mind’, explains Showroom Manager Amy Odering; ‘so selecting tiles that work with your overall design and family needs is essential.

In this case it was about sticking to a neutral and earthy theme.’

While in the heart of the home, the tiles provide a tactile and rather captivating finish, in the bathroom they offer practicality and a fresh, warm aesthetic. ‘Jason and Mandy wanted to keep the bathrooms light and open, so we selected a 600x600mm warm grey porcelain tile from Italy, which was used on the floors, and matched this with a 300x600mm white polished tile for the walls. The grey achieves a warm natural feeling, while the white gives the room a light open feel.’

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Mandy and Jason have many musical talents between them and music has become a family ‘hobby’ – the driving force behind having the studio. Connected to the home via a deck, which also acts as the entranceway to the home, the studio was the first of the two structures to be built and was home to the family of four for ten months while the primary dwelling was built.

‘The studio needed to have a durable floor surface that retained a natural look and had a rustic element to it’, offers Darrel Pat of Christchurch Concrete Grinding. A close friend of the Pickerings, Darrel knew the importance the studio would play in their lives and set about achieving exactly what they wanted.

Wanting to achieve an imperfect aesthetic, the concrete floor has natural variations and textures that add to the rustic feel. It was sealed with Duragloss concrete sealer for functionality.

For the primary dwelling the intention was to have the floors appear as though part of the structure, rather than simply a finishing element laid at the end. ‘The grain texture and knots add to the character and barn aesthetic of the home’, explains Darrel. The boards were finished in Pallmann Magic Oil. ‘Darrel was amazing’, enthuses Mandy. ‘He was a perfectionist!’

For designer Nick, the budget for this build – and the innovative thinking behind keeping to it – made this a particularly special project. ‘Having a limited budget does not mean your building has to be limited. We look to standard materials and use them in unexpected ways, which works beautifully. We believe strongly that creative architecture is not necessarily about building the biggest home you can afford; it’s about designing the best home for your style of living. This project does that entirely.’

HOMES

Making life LIVING Adding to the sense of

internal space, while seamlessly connecting inside with out are the floor-to-ceiling windows and ranch sliders. The black aluminium joinery for the windows and doors is from the Fairview architectural linear suite, supplied by Rockford Aluminium.

An Enzo Tripod floor-standing lamp from Global Living offered the perfect over-sized, industrial finish to the living space.

BATHROOM Like the rest of the home the bathroom is a light and open space. A feat achieved through the addition of Italian 600x600mm warm grey porcelain tiles on the floor, and 300x600mm white polished tiles on the walls â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both from MO Tiles.

STUDIO As talented musicians, a

studio was always going to be an essential part of this build, and like the main house its aesthetic is based around natural, raw materials, such as the concrete floor, which was ground and sealed by Christchurch Concrete Grinding.

INVOLVED IN THIS PROJECT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER Yardley and Foster Architecture Ltd 021 108 9736 yardleyandfoster.nz BUILDER Artisan Homes 021 469 005 artisanhomes.co.nz CONCRETE Christchurch Concrete Grinding and Timber Sanding 0274 880 719 concrete-grinding.co.nz JOINERY Rockford Aluminium 03 365 8524 fairviewwindows.co.nz

more liveable For ideas , advice and information about our exceptional windows and doors, give us a call.

Call Rockford Aluminium on 03 365 8524, or stop by 240 St Asaph Street.

TILES MO Tiles 03 338 0155 motiles.co.nz

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beautiful

BEFORE & AFTER WITH SENSITIVITY AND SKILL, THIS UNIQUE FAMILY HOME HAS BEEN BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED AND MODERNISED BY THE TEAM AT PREMIUM HOMES WO R DS K ATE BAR B ER

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ust as the Canterbury Earthquakes fractured the city and shattered lives, they violently interrupted people’s conception of the steady passing of time, creating a before-and-after mentality. For Susan Lysaght, as she looks back and considers the impact of the earthquakes and the process of repairing her beloved home, it is difficult to recall exact dates and timeframes.

As many Cantabrians can probably relate, it feels surreal.

Susan Lysaght’s Fendalton home was one of the few structures in the immediate neighbourhood that did not need to be demolished and rebuilt.

Holding onto the family home and safeguarding the memories inscribed throughout was a blessing.

However, with the Oamaru stone blocks cracked and crumbling, and the drainage and sewage system severely damaged beneath the home, an extensive repair job was on the cards.

The job called for solid planning, meticulous attention to the finer details and impeccable execution, and, ultimately, a deep appreciation of Susan’s vision for her home.

Taking on this unique job was the team at Premium Homes. And they did so in such a way that ‘never felt like they were taking over’, says Susan: ‘I always felt respected and involved.’

As Operations Manager Paul Hardy reflects: ‘our clients are always our number one priority, and it is imperative that they know this and are involved throughout’.

Built in 2004, the architecturally-designed two-storey house is divided into two distinct halves – each comprising living spaces and private quarters – which are connected by a glass linkway on the ground floor and an air-bridge upstairs.

The five-bedroom house is unique and, as Susan notes, ‘still current’. Whilst the repair job was an opportunity to ‘freshen things up’, the project was about restoring the original features that make the home special.

On the one hand, this was an extensive repair job. 'The house was re-levelled and stripped back to its bones, leaving only the foundation, frames, windows and roof’, explains Paul. In addition to being entirely re-clad, the house needed new linings and new tiling, new patios, driveway and drainage/sewage system. ‘We had a team of six carpenters on site and, with the subcontractors, there were up to 18 people onsite at any one time.’

Comprehensive in scope, the repair work was also a delicate undertaking – because, like all projects, it was about ‘getting it exactly right for the client’. Known for his fastidious attention

ABOVE Oamaru stone contrasts with the dark timber cladding on the exterior, and the home’s clean lines and angles are carried through to the inviting garden.

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to the finer details and exacting standards of workmanship, Paul ensured that everything was executed to perfection.

He also guided Susan through the process of restoring and, in places, modernising her home.

‘The original pine flooring of the bridge needed to be replaced’, explains Susan, ‘and Paul suggested I might like to opt for a harder wood, like oak, this time – for the stairs and the bridge.’

More than simply a conduit between spaces, the restored air-bridge is a stunning space in its own right. The oak flooring achieves a sleek finish, while creating a feeling of warmth and lightness, and large windows afford views out over the garden and leafy neighbourhood.

‘We also repainted the interior a lighter shade and put down new carpet throughout, and we upgraded all the lighting to LEDs’, Susan explains.

The repair took some eight months – and as Susan emphasises the process was smooth and surprisingly easy. ‘Looking back, it was all pretty beyond me’, she reflects. ‘But Paul was wonderful!

At no point did I feel like I was asking a silly question. I trusted him implicitly, and I felt part of the process, absolutely!’

‘I also trusted the company’. Susan recalls regular meetings with directors, Andrew Breward 62

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and Kelly Wood: ‘I got to know them well, and I was shown the utmost respect and consideration – as was my home.’

‘We are passionate about what we do and focused on delivering an outstanding building experience’, says Paul. And involving the client every step of the way in order to deliver exactly what they envision is embedded in the company’s ethos. ‘We have a round-the-table approach where we keep the client informed and seek feedback’, he continues.

Asked about his favourite part of the project, it signifies that Paul focuses not on any aspect of the flawless finish. No, his focus is on the client: ‘The absolute highlight was handing back the keys to Sue and seeing her reactions as we walked through the house together.’

With the home’s separate quarters so beautifully rejuvenated, and linked by a glass walkway downstairs and a stunning oak bridge, above, the house is modern and sophisticated as well as warm and inviting. It is hardly surprising that Susan’s adult children love visiting – and staying.

Susan is ‘delighted’ to be back in her beloved before home, the modern look signifying a new beginning for the whole family.

0800 773 628 | premhomes.co.nz

ABOVE The family home contained many memories for Susan, and she was ‘absolutely delighted’ with the sensitivity and respect shown by Paul Hardy and the team at Premium Homes as they worked to restore and modernise it.

HOMES

Whilst the repair job was an opportunity to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;freshen things upâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, the project was about restoring the original features that make the home special.

LEFT The repair work involved re-levelling the house and stripping it back to its bones, leaving only the foundation, frames, windows and roof. New patios were put down as was a new driveway, and the drainage/sewage system repaired. With six carpenters on site along with subcontractors, the work took around eight months to complete.

Whilst the repair work was extensive, for Susan the process was smooth and surprisingly easy.

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Taking Advantage Of The Winter Property Market With the colder months of winter having arrived, the property market also has a tendency to cool off, with some sellers tempted to hold off until spring and summer to sell their property. However, there are some distinct advantages to selling your home during the winter months.

Heating By selling your home at the coldest time of year, you have the opportunity to showcase all of your winter warmers and demonstrate that they are working and ready for the purchaser to use. Buyers will ask themselves if it felt cold while looking through the house and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll look for functioning hot water and heating systems. Heating is of particular appeal if you are selling an older house and it can be a pivotal factor when a buyer looks to make their homebuying decision.

There are generally fewer listings on the market during winter however this can open your home to greater exposure. A lack of listings can also result in increased buyer competition. The colder conditions should filter out any tyre kickers or nosey neighbours â&#x20AC;&#x201C; instead attracting those who are serious buyers that have the intention of making a purchase.

Here are some great ways to maximise the viewing potential of your home during the winter months.

Lighting With winter comes colder temperatures, shorter days and less natural light. A lot of people who are thinking about attending an open home will often drive past the property in the evening and nothing looks better than a house lit up at night time.

Therefore itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to set timers up for those night time drivers reducing your power bills.

Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd Licensed REAA (2008)

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O U R FAV O U R I T E S

PLACES WE LOVE

Step inside a world of wonder with our picks for places to visit this month KIT & CABOODLE Specialising in antiques and distinctive interiors, Kit & Caboodle offers an exciting space in which to delve into the beautiful and unusual.

Old World luxury sits harmoniously alongside contemporary furniture, vibrant accessories and quirky finishing touches. The result is captivating and instantly prompts thoughts as to how to achieve this at home. As well as furniture, lighting and accessories, Kit & Caboodle has a custom-made service for upholstery, headboards, eiderdowns, soft furnishings and curtains – ensuring they have everything you need on hand.

And if that wasn’t enough, owner Alex Goodger and her team also offer a full interior design and décor service. Working with clients to achieve timeless, yet personal interior spaces, Alex describes their approach: ‘We have a flair for the unique, bringing a fresh approach when it comes to integrating colour, texture and detail.’

Be prepared: one visit will have you coming back for more!

7 Elgin Street, Sydenham kitandcaboodle.co.nz

LO U I S W H O? Nestled within antiques and collectables store, Twine, in Waikuku, Louis Who? allows you to foray into high-street fashion, but without the high-end price tag. ‘Essentially the store is designer pre-loved clothes and things that I love’, shares store owner Lisa Willetts.

Boasting well-known local and international clothing brands such as Moochi, Kate Sylvester, Trelise Cooper, World, Ruby and so many more, Lisa’s extensive collection comes from all around, with those no longer in love with or need of their designer clothing dropping them off for Lisa to sell. Originally set up to sell off her own clothing as well as that of friends, Louis Who? was only ever going to be a couple of racks. ‘Now I’m overflowing’, laughs Lisa.

With a high turnover of stock, and even a collection of shoes so that you can complete your new outfit in style, this is a shopping destination well worth discovering.

The Brick Mill Complex, 1473 Main North Road, Waikuku facebook.com/louiswhoclothing J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 16

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GINGERBREAD MEN Recipe by Josh Emett Makes: About 12 Prep Time: 20 mins, plus chilling Cook Time: 10 mins Skill Level: 1 (Easy) INGREDIENTS 115g soft brown sugar 115g butter 2 tsp ginger powder 1 tsp cinnamon powder 1 thumb-sized stem ginger, finely grated zest of 1 orange 30g golden syrup 200g plain flour To decorate: pre-made vanilla frosting red ribbon Pre-heat oven to 180°C. Place all ingredients except flour in a mixer or food processor and whisk or blend until they are all creamed together.

Add flour and combine, then remove dough and roll into a disc. Wrap and place in the fridge to rest and chill for 20 minutes.

Remove from the fridge and cut into quarters, then roll each quarter out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 5mm. Use gingerbread man cutters to cut out the shapes, placing them on greased/lined baking trays. Re-roll the leftover dough and repeat until all the dough is used.

FOOD

Following the success of the Great New Zealand Cook Book, its baking counterpart is guaranteed to ensure the baking tins are overflowing with delicious treats

Bake for about 10 minutes, then rest on the side of the trays until cool.

Put vanilla frosting in a piping bag with a 1mm opening. Pipe faces and clothing on the men and then tie with red ribbon.

Extract from The Great New Zealand Baking Book, Published by Thom Productions.

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Natural aesthetics help create the unmistakable character and warmth that this warm stone appearance offers in high quality porcelain.

View this in your preferred tile studio today.

O U R FAV O U R I T E S

Outside this month July is generally a quiet month for gardeners as the garden is still in hibernation. However August is a very busy month as the garden comes alive again.

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Prune fruit trees.

C ollect any leaves around your property for mulch and compost.

S pray citrus and fruit trees with a mixture of copper and oil to smother any disease or dormant insects.

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N ow is the time to get your ground prepared for all the planting you will do in spring.

Dig in compost and slow-release fertilisers, making sure you dig the ground over to the depth of a foot where you can.

E nsure fruit trees that have early blossom are covered at nights to protect the flower bud from damage. Make sure you take this off during the day for pollination.

Prune roses.

S ow seeds for your spring germination such as carrots, beetroot, onions and parsnips.

P lant cold hardy veges, such as cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and leeks.

GARDENING know - how

We talk to to landscaper Kim Odering about what we should be doing outside this month and what makes her tick when it comes to gardens TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT KIM ODERING GROUND DESIGN. As a husband and wife team Zhenya and I are

dedicated to helping people create their dream garden.

We are adamant that every person deserves a place of tranquillity, to just be! We happen to be really good at creating it.

As an original member of family-owned Nursery and Garden Centre, Oderings, I have over thirty-five years of experience and am passionate about gardens and people's needs.

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR GARDEN DESIGNS? When it comes to outdoor living, I get my inspiration from knowing how beautiful an outdoor space can be, and the quality it can bring to a person’s lifestyle. The personalities and priorities of our clients along with the architectural lines of their homes are important factors when it comes to creating a great outdoor space. We want to create sanctuaries that inspire family time and entertaining at home.

WHAT SHOULD WE NEVER COMPROMISE ON WHEN IT COMES TO LANDSCAPE DESIGN? It is my belief that a person should not compromise on getting it

right the first time, and that means from the ground up. Don't rush in. Get expert advice and have a landscape plan to work from. Failure to do so can result in wasting thousands of dollars.

Instead of a positive outcome you are left with a sense of defeat. People want a garden that they can be ‘blooming’ proud of, and by talking to the experts they can achieve it.

ARE WE SEEING ANY TRENDS IN GARDEN DESIGN AT THE MOMENT? People are either leaning towards native plantings and a more natural look, or very sculptured plants such as topiaries and buxus hedging. As the cost of living increases and people explore and develop more sustainable principles, we are also seeing vegetable gardens grow in popularity. Landscapers are having to be more innovative in order to satisfy all of these needs whilst working with smaller spaces.

03 339 4971 | grounddesign.co.nz

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Montrose Design and Build Ltd is a residential building company specialising in architectural and bespoke homes.

We have a wealth of local and international knowledge in building and managing complex projects and have responded to a clear need for a company that offers discerning clients unbeatable levels of service, design and craftmanship.

03 260 0333 admin@montrose.co.nz www.montrose.co.nz

YOU CAN VISIT OUR SHOWHOME - 81 EDWARD STREET, LINCOLN Open: Tuesday to Saturday 12-4pm or by appointment.

O U R FAV O U R I T E S

DIY

how to: GET CREATIVE WITH LEATHER DIY guru Alana Shinn gets creative with an old leather jacket and a needle

WHAT YOU'LL NEED Old leather jacket (or any leather garment) Sewing machine and thread Leather or jean sewing machine needles Scissors Snap fastener tape Cushion inner The first step is to find an old leather jacket.

Pick a garment that is large, which will mean more leather to work with; and old, so that it is beautifully worn and soft, so will be perfect for lounging on.

Cut the old leather jacket into two large pieces, roughly the size of the cushion you want to cover.

You may need to sew a few smaller pieces together to make one large piece. Don’t be afraid of this, as the extra seams running across the finished cushion ‘make’ this cushion, and will add a unique touch to your finished result.

Place the cushion in the centre of the two pieces of leather and cut around the cushion allowing two centimetres on each edge for your seam.

Pin together the sides that will be on display, and sew up three sides, leaving one end open.

Trim the two corners that are opposite the open end, and turn the cushion cover in the right way.

Cut a length of the snap fastener tape the same width as the open end. Undo the tape to reveal two strips: one ‘male’ and one ‘female'. Pin each strip to the opening, taking time to line up the two strips of tape, so that each of the male and female fasteners are opposite each other. The male strip should be facing outwards. Sew into place, making sure to sew around each side of the tape.

Insert the cushion into the cover and invert the open end so the snap fasteners line up and can be snapped together. threadbarecloak.com

Fence & Deck Spraying Floor Painting | Garage Carpet Crack Injection | Diamond Grinding Easy Clean Shower Glass Temporary Surface Protection

Jack: 027 290 4429 or Joel: 027 254 3807

protectacoatings.co.nz

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O U R FAV O U R I T E S

ETCETERA

From gardening advice to online inspiration, events and books, we have you covered R E AD I N G CO RNER

F LOWER OF THE MO MENT RANUNCULUS With their vibrant crepe papery blooms and long stems, these floral delights are ideal for bringing colour indoors over the duller winter months

O N D I S P L AY

The Flower Workshop

by Ariella Chezar and Julie Michaels

With paintings that have never before been displayed in public, Chambers Art Gallery will be showcasing the latest from renowned painter Tony de Lautour in an exhibition titled: Sections, Blocks, Towers & Messages. Opening Tuesday 02 August, this is one for the diary. chambersart.co.nz

Published by Ten Speed Press, distributed in New Zealand

by Penguin Randomhouse

The Flower Workshop is exactly that: ‘lessons in arranging blooms, branches, fruits and foraged materials’. Guiding us through creating arrangements that go beyond being merely pretty and that enter the realms of the dramatic, the unexpected, and sometimes even the magical, there is advice and philosophy on everything from texture and colour, to foliage and containers. Both inspirational and instructional, this is an overall approach to living and working with flowers.

OPENING SOON! Set to inspire and inform, Chesters Bathroom and Plumbing is opening a new showroom on Annex Road – an absolute must-visit for those building or renovating the bathroom. chesters.co.nz

ONE IS NEVER ENOUGH O N L I N E I N S P I RAT I ON revisededition.co.nz With a love of colour, texture and pattern, the creative mind behind Revised Edition, Nikki Astwood, inspires us on a daily basis with her beautiful flat-lays. Telling the story of her latest ventures, she combines everyday items with a multitude of found objects, creating a visual feast designed to satisfy and revitalise.

The latest release of flavours from J'aime les Macarons have been inspired by the most beautiful and luxe tastes of winter. These include: Plum & Blackberry, Pear & Ginger, Black Sesame, Salted Caramel, Blackcurrant & Violet, Peanut Butter & Jam, Sticky Date Pudding, and the list goes on. Our favourite is Plum & Blackberry – mouth-wateringly moreish. jaimelesmacarons.co.nz J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 16

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SHOP WINDOW

JAVA FURNITURE & GIFTWARE

SHOP WINDOW

To feature your business here call Julie Williams on 027 269 0085 or email julie@abodemagazine.co.nz

GUTHRIE BOWRON

HARPERS BAZAAR

hbinteriordesign.co.nz

Found at 484 Cranford Street, Guthrie Bowron is on hand to assist you in turning your house into a home with their extensive range of wallpaper, paint, flooring and window treatments. As decorating specialists, expert advice is always on hand. The perfect mood for your home is just one store away.

There’s a lot of merit in the saying 'there is no substitute for experience'. Situated in a quaint bungalow at 127 St Albans Street, the experienced designers at Harpers Bazaar offer friendly service, in store or by appointment in your own home. Pop by the studio for a browse and a chat.

KIT & CABOODLE

metrofloor.co.nz

kitandcaboodle.co.nz

A world of exclusive timber and tiles for your home, Metro Floor boasts exceptional advice and service when it comes to all things flooring.

Their new collection of premium hardwood flooring, Listone Giordano, is hard to go past. Sustainably grown in Listone’s own forests in Burgundy, view the collection today at 114 Montreal Street.

Believing beautiful interiors come from the fusion of timeless pieces, quality fabrics and the juxtaposition of old and new, Kit and Caboodle - Antique and Distinctive Interiors achieves distinctive results designed to stand the test of time. For the perfect centrepiece or whole room makeover, they have the finishing touch.

ARMSTRONG INTERIORS

corcovado.co.nz

armstronginteriors.co.nz Passionate about all things interior, Angelique Armstrong and her team are now found in their new studio at 17 Halton Street. Providing beautiful solutions for all of your interior needs – be it colour or furnishings, kitchens or bathrooms – it is a place of ideas, inspiration and guidance.

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Uniqueness is strived for at Java Furniture & Giftware.

With an array of one-off pieces, those with a sense of style and adventure are destined to find something they love. Not constrained by the latest trends, the expansive Blenhiem Road showroom offers traditional, industrial and contemporary – and always original – designs and giftware.

guthriebowron.co.nz

METRO FLOOR

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javafurniture.co.nz

CORCOVADO

Corcovado has a new home at 137 Victoria Street. Working with talented artisans around the globe Corcovado offers modern, hand-selected and limited edition pieces.

Actively sourcing original and also antique pieces, this is the place to go for that unique something.

SHOP WINDOW

CORSO MERIVALE

FEMME DE BROCANTE

corsomerivale.nz

fdb.co.nz

An iconic Merivale boutique, this stylish store offers an enduring range of quality designer homewares from around the world with a distinct European influence; and collections of ceramics, glassware, furniture, homewares, luxury gifts and clothing. A true destination store that never fails to exceed the expectations of the most discerning.

This is THE place to shop for affordable curtain, upholstery, oilcloth and outdoor fabrics.

Plus, FdB are stockists of Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan, Tony Sly Pottery from Raglan, gorgeous homewares and a sumptuous range of cushions.

Get inspired at 15 Coronation Street, Rangiora.

COCO GIFTS

FABRIC HOUSE

cocogifts.co.nz

fabrichouse.co.nz

Stocking gorgeous homewares from French Country, Le Forge, CC Interiors, One World Collection, Maytime, Citta Design and more, the team at Coco Gifts has everything you want on hand. They can also easily source anything you need, as great customer service is their highest priority.

With a mix of contemporary and classic designs, not to mention all the latest must haves, Fabric House has beautiful curtain and upholstery fabrics, sourced from European mills and available directly to you at wholesale prices. Visit their showroom at 140 Colombo Street, Beckenham, and be inspired. There is something here for every home.

SANDALWOOD DESIGN

frameandmirror.co.nz

Creating essence, spice and style for your home, Sandalwood Design provides a diverse range of interior design services. Whether you have a love for character, a desire for contemporary or something in between, they can help you create a personal oasis where you can escape, relax and enjoy.

Newly available is the Lille range of mouldings. Crossing over from traditional to contemporary, they come in three profiles and four colours - gold, silver, copper and pewter. Call into the store for advice and assistance centred on your needs to achieve a framing solution that complements and protects your artwork.

sandalwooddesign.co.nz

BELLE INTERIORS

ECO FRAME & MIRROR

OBELISK

belleinteriors.co.nz

obelisk.co.nz

Offering a comprehensive interior service, from concept to design to manufacture, this iconic Christchurch destination prides itself on being able to realise the potential of spaces, taking into consideration both function and aesthetic appeal. Belle Interiors has the exclusive ingredients to embellish and enhance your home.

With a focus on the unique, and on enhancing individuality, Obelisk has a stunning array of furniture and homeware, ensuring they can provide a fabulous sense of style and drama for your home and garden.

Relocating from Tai Tapu to The Colombo, a visit to their new store is a must.

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SHOP WINDOW

JOE JANDALS

joejandals.co.nz

Tucked down an alleyway at the Tannery, Joe Jandals HQ offers the discerning homeowner a chance to purchase something truly unique. Having expanded their offering to include interior project design, from conception to completion, this is much more than simply a retail space. Now open Sundays, there is no excuse not to discover this vibrant store.

MAREE HYNES INTERIORS & GIFTS

mareehynesinteriors.co.nz For new and existing homes, Maree Hynes Interiors offers package deals on curtains, wallpaper, furniture and lighting, with samples brought straight to your door in their mobile showroom.

Transform your home with their colour consultations, furniture placement and room dressing service. Call today for a free measure and quote.

RESENE

MT BEAUTIFUL WINE TASTING ROOM

resene.co.nz/colorshops

Located with Two Rivers Café in Cheviot, North Canterbury, the Mt Beautiful Tasting Room is open seven days offering the discerning traveller a delightful space in which to relax. Be informed by the passionate team with a wine tasting of the current vintages, or enjoy a glass of wine and a platter to share.

Planning to decorate but not sure which colours to choose?

Resene Colour Experts are here to help, guiding you through selecting the perfect colour for your home and personality.

Resene Colour Experts can visit your home and help you choose paint, colours, wallpapers and accessories for your interior and/or exterior, or book a free in-store appointment at your local Resene ColorShop.

mtbeautiful.co.nz

CHAMBERS ART GALLERY

chambersart.co.nz Chambers Art Gallery represents both leading and emerging New Zealand artists, and exhibits new works across a range of practices. Attention is centred upon works of quality that are skilful, conceptually rich, spirited and sincere. Visit them at 241 Moorhouse Ave.

Need A Building Report?

0800 PROVAC (776 822) C H R I S TC H U R C H

Kevin Williams

021 221 2616

www.digoutservices.co.nz digoutservices@xtra.co.nz

• Same Day Service • Full Inspection from $400 • Members of NZ Institute of Building Inspectors

0800 724 547 www.kiwi inspections christchurch.co.nz 78

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Covering ALL excavating requirements throughout Christchurch & North Canterbury

MORE is less Mike Pero Real Estate are a trusted brand with a lower commission fee than most so you can expect more & pay less.

0800 000 525

mikepero.com

Mike Pero Real Estate Limited Licensed REAA (2008)

LAST WORD

adding value David Killick works out what areas of the home are worth budgeting for

S

uppose you won Lotto and suddenly had a big sum to spend on your home. What would you improve? Of course, for all but a handful of people, winning Lotto is an idle dream. Most of us have to work and save hard for years. Nevertheless, the desire to create a comfortable, good-looking home is universal.

So what’s a good investment? What’s worth spending money on, and what isn’t? It’s something all of us can ponder and plan, no matter what our income is or what kind of house we currently live in, and irrespective of whether we plan to stay or to sell.

Having visited countless homes over the years, met and spoken with architects, designers and real estate agents, and having done some online research, I have settled on some of the main areas that most agree will add value to your home.

First, there’s a distinction between repairs and maintenance, and renovations. Fixing the roof and windows, cleaning the guttering and repainting cladding are all worth doing, but a buyer will expect a home to be in sound condition, and so should you.

Landscaping and an attractive garden are among the first things visitors will notice when they roll up your driveway. Professional landscapers come up with a plan and can do all the heavy work. It’s definitely worth doing.

Tidying your home is a simple and affordable way to add value. Clear clutter. This can be an ongoing battle, but it’s worth it and will make you feel better too. You may need to invest in better storage, but first sort out how much stuff you really need to keep.

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At the top of the list of big changes is the kitchen. An attractive kitchen is a massive selling point. We use our kitchens not just for cooking but also for socialising. They are no longer shut off but connected with our living rooms. Sleek benchtops and surfaces, smooth-opening drawers, a modern tap (usually a single mixer) and stylish appliances will all add value. But there’s a limit and you need to make sure you don't overcapitalise. A guideline I came across was to spend up to five per cent of the house’s value on the kitchen: for a $400,000 house, spend $20,000; for a $800,000 house, spend $40,000.

Bathrooms are second in line. Get rid of grotty showers, baths, taps and toilets, and get nice new fittings. Don’t forget ventilation and heating. As for colours, simple white and stainless steel will stay in style.

Heat pumps are super energy efficient and will add value, but make sure you get one with enough grunt. Budget models are a false economy. Go to an established firm with a good reputation.

Adding extra insulation will improve comfort no end and keep power bills down. So will doubleglazing; but alas, retrofitting it doesn’t seem to add huge dollar value to a house.

Among more economical ways of adding value are better lighting (go for LEDs to save on power bills), a sympathetic colour scheme and curtains, artwork, and – one that surprised me – a smart front door.

You can’t do it all at once, but you can at least make a list and start planning.

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