AOTEAROA HOMES + IDEAS + ADVICE
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024
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Happy days Summer at home in Aotearoa
FRESH TAKE New beginnings in a major Timaru reno
GLASS HOUSE Sleek and chic over Otautahi
LOOK OUT High-end homes, waterfront views 105
SHOWROOMS IN AUCKL AND & CHRISTCHURCH CO N TA C T U S F O R YO U R YO U R LO C A L S TO C K I S T 108
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CONTACT Cameron Bailey 027 555 7079 Harrison Joseph 027 695 7840
Welcome
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lease indulge me for just a moment while I talk about my children, and their children. I won’t bore you with the details: suffice to say they’re all incredible people who have already made such positive changes to the world even at their young ages, and I could not be more proud. I promise this is relevant. As 2024 draws to a close, it’s a time to reflect on what’s just been. My youngest, for example, completed her first year of university in a conjoint degree programme, studying concurrently for a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science. That has got me to thinking just how much in life is both an art and a science – including the creation of a house. Whenever I interview a builder for the pages of abode, I always ask about not just the (literal) nuts and bolts of managing a project, but also the little gems of inspiration, improvements and problem-solving that can only come from talent, experience and great collaboration. Take a look at our feature stories from page 42 for some beautiful examples. I just love those sparks of a creative process, and am so lucky to have also found it here at abode. Our team works in exactly that same way; everyone full of ideas and happy to be working together to bring every issue to life. A big thank you to all the brilliant people listed below; congratulations on another edition! I hope you enjoy what we’ve created here, and here’s to many more.
Cassie Doherty EDITOR cassie@27publishers.co.nz
PUBLISHER
Twenty Seven Publishers Ltd lisa@27publishers.co.nz EDITOR
Cassie Doherty cassie@27publishers.co.nz DESIGN & PRODUCTION
Kamo Marsh Landscape Architects create quality landscape designs. Based in Christchurch and Queenstown, our talented team are ready for your next residential or commercial project. kamomarsh.co.nz 03 366 8181
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CHRISTCHURCH - QUEENSTOWN
Rachel Lowrey designer@27publishers.co.nz DEPUTY EDITOR
Kathy Catton kathy@27publishers.co.nz GENERAL MANAGER AND SALES
Caroline Martin caroline@27publishers.co.nz
abodemagazine.co.nz
CONTRIBUTORS
Sven Alberding, Robyn Alexander, Jamie Cobel, Rachael Cone, Todd Eyre, Warren Heath, Charlie Rose Jackson, Lightforge Photography, Dean McGuigan, Anna McLeod, Tony Milne, Hazel Redmond, Mick Stephenson, David Straight, Shelley Sweeney, Bevan Triebels, Veronica Wedlake, Nici Wickes, John Williams PRINT
Blueprint, Christchurch ISSN 2703-3279 (Print) ISSN 2703-4445 (Online)
@abodemagazineNZ
@abode_magazine
abode is published bi-monthly and is a registered trademark. While all attempts have been made to verify information provided in this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretations of the subject matter contained herein. The reader of this publication assumes all responsibility for the use of these materials and information. Any perceived slight of any person or organisation is completely unintentional. abode asserts copyright on all material published within abode and none of it shall be reproduced, wholly or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. abode reserves the right to edit or abridge all letters or other material, whether solicited or otherwise, prior to publication. For all enquiries, please email hello@27publishers.co.nz
spaces inspired by your story We design living spaces that are beautiful, inspirational, and suit the way that you and your family like to live. From end-to-end interior design to helping you find that one perfect piece, Nextdore helps you create a space that reflects your unique style.
Showroom at 102 Montreal Street Sydenham nextdore.co.nz
Contents FE ATU RE S 16
P R I D E O F P L AC E Award-winning kitchens and bathrooms
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G I F TI N G E D I T Unwrap the joy of gifting
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D E C K TH E H A LL S How to celebrate the season
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SUMMER SHOWCA SE SPECIAL FE ATURE : HOLIDAY AT HOME 2 8 REL A X AND ENJOY Making the most of summer 30 KEEP YOUR COOL The key to comfortable living
Built on Trust, Proven by Results.
32 RISING STAR Insights from a young landscaper 34 IN A NEW LIGHT Solar protection for your home 36 SLICE OF HE AVEN A young family’s forever home
No.1 Bayleys Canterbury Residential 2017 — 2024 Bayleys National Auction Award Winner (3 years running)
No.1 National Growth Team Performance Award Winner Over $700,000,000 of Property Sold
027 327 7298 ahteam.co.nz 6
3 8 LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU Fun on the waterfront
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HOME S 42
F I E LD O F D R E A M S The pursuit of perfection in Wānaka
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A M O D E R N M A S TE R P I E C E Turning a challenge into a triumph
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A N E W OA S I S A calm and comfortable new build
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LI N E O F S I G H T ˉ Making the complex simple in Otautahi
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IN FINE FORM True collaboration is the magic sauce
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MADE IN NEW ZEALAND A country lodge celebrating Hawke’s Bay
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F R E S H TA K E A transformation for a new way of living
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M I N I M A RV E L The sweetest modular cabin in South Africa
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COLU MNS 12
R O U G H M I LN E M I TC H E LL The commute
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TOTA L R E A LT Y On a deadline
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G O LD E N H O M E S Open to ideas
LIFE S T YLE 96
FOOD Gorgeous Blackberry & Apple Galette
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TH E G O O D LI F E
REG U L AR S 4
W E LCO M E
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TH E H O M E PAG E
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S U B S C R I B E TO abode
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INSPIRING FINDS
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S H O P W I N D OW
AOTEAROA HOMES + IDEAS + ADVICE
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024
RRP $10.50
Architecture & Craftsmanship
Driven to develop surfaces that create superior living environments, we believe the tactile nature of plaster cladding is unrivalled.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024
Our advanced solutions are locally made for our unique conditions, durable, attractive, tactile and can be custom-coloured to suit bespoke projects. At Resene Construction Systems, we only promote the best products, solutions and practices for each and every project we work on.
Happy days Summer at home in Aotearoa
INTEGRA lightweight concrete plaster cladding
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TM
ISSUE 73
reseneconstruction.co.nz 0800 50 70 40
FRESH TAKE New beginnings in a major Timaru reno
GLASS HOUSE Sleek and chic over Otautahi
LOOK OUT High-end homes, waterfront views
ON THE COVER A slice of heaven on the shores of Lake Hayes, by Ben Hudson Architects. Photography: John Williams
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The Home Page Social comments, musings, questions and requests from our readers C I T’S A MYSTERY ˉ Last issue’s cover home on the coast in Otautahi was a stunner. By Nic Owen of Nic Owen Architects as his own family home, it’s experimental architecture and casual comfort in one. “Superb,” said one Instagram follower. The story is online at abodemagazine.co.nz so make sure you check it out.
B T H E S AG E PAG E The talented team of abode stylists put together this pleasingly pastel look last issue. See abodemagazine.co.nz for all the details, including some soft and earthy Resene paint colours. This edition, our stylists have some tips on the joy of gift-giving this season, so head straight to page 22.
E B R IC K B E AU T Y This couple gave up Melbourne city living to ˉ settle in pretty Otautahi and couldn’t be happier. “Gorgeous home,” said a follower. “That lounge! Love a dark and moody space.” For all the info and beautiful photographs, take a look on @abodemagazineNZ on Facebook and @abode_magazine on Instagram.
D M E E T CU T E Everyone loves an adorable pet, and this guy was a fave. He’s drawing your attention, of course, to the great lawn care advice from builderscrack.co.nz that was in our Spring Renovations special feature. This issue, our special feature on page 27 has everything you need to help you have fun at home this summer.
B MORE P LEASE We’re thrilled to have the delightful Nici Wickes on board at abode, with recipes from her More From a Quiet Kitchen cookbook featuring in our pages. Readers loved her Bistro Bacon & Tarragon Chicken last issue. This time, turn to page 96 for a super-easy Blackberry & Apple Galette for one (or two, if you feel like sharing).
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Find us
abodemagazine.co.nz
@abodemagazineNZ
@abode_magazine
Independently Brilliant With 27 years importing direct into Christchurch, Brymac Tiles has a wealth of experience and specialist knowledge to draw on. We offer extensive ranges of porcelain stoneware and specialised tiling consumables. For quality materials and immaculate installation, you can count on Brymac Tiles.
Visit our showroom
42 Durham Street . Christchurch . Ph 03 366 8187
brymactiles.co.nz
One lucky abode subscriber will win two pairs of sunglasses by Isle of Eden valued at $409!
Subscribe to win!
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reat yourself or a friend to a year of abode (six issues) for only $57 and you’ll never miss a detail. Every bi-monthly issue of abode features inspirational architecture and interior design, plus building and renovation advice from experts around Aotearoa. Subscribe before the end of December 2024 and you could be the lucky winner of two pairs of sunglasses by Isle of Eden. The Harley sunglasses in Dijon have a timeless silhouette brought into the present with a bolder frame, and the sleek and refined Olli in Black takes its cues from the 1950s and 1960s. Mix and match the unisex designs with your favourite outfits, or share them with a friend. Isle of Eden is an independent New Zealand brand of eyewear with high quality, contemporary style and a small environmental footprint. Learn more at isleofeden.co.nz.
Only one chance to win so go to abodemagazine.co.nz/ subscribe or scan this QR code.
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TERMS & CONDITIONS This subscription offer is valid for subscriptions delivered within New Zealand. For international subscription rates visit abodemagazine.co.nz/subscribe or email subscribe@abodemagazine.co.nz. Please allow up to eight weeks for delivery of your first magazine. Visit abodemagazine.co.nz/subscribe for further information.
AVENTOS HKi Hidden in plain sight. Sometimes, you have to take away to get more. With
AVENTOS HKi, it’s about taking away hardware from the inside of your cabinet. And what you get? Space for
creativity. Visit Blum’s Auckland or Christchurch showroom to discover the award-winning lift system firsthand. It’s sure to spark inspiration for your next project. www.blum.com/aventoshki
TO N Y M I L N E Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects
THE COMMUTE
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n 2023, we introduced Ridetober at RMM. A chance to get to work by other means. Some walked, others bussed. Big Russ car-pooled and a good few biked. And thus started my commute. Come rain, shine, frost or claggy morn and with the pesky easterly my constant companion, I have discovered a layer of our city I had previously lacked an appreciation of. As landscape architects we conceptualise landscape as having overlapping physical, associative and perceptual dimensions. The physical dimension is easiest to understand. Associative means those intangible things that influence how places are perceived and activities specifically associated with the qualities of a landscape. Perceptual means both direct sensory experience and broader interpretation through the senses. This includes all the senses. Sensory perception typically occurs simultaneously with knowledge, memory and interpretation. One year on, I now understand the route I commute, through an association with those things that define the various parts of the city I cycle past. I enjoy
Tony Milne of Rough Milne Mitchell on crossing dimensions and deeper perceptions.
my morning commute most: it is dark, I cycle as the city wakes. Often, my commute starts with a cut through the Prestons neighbourhood. The smooth asphaltic concrete of the streets allows a high and smooth cadence (cycling chat I overheard at a cafe once). Next, I travel along Mairehau Road, which traverses a slice of residual countryside, fending urban encroachment on all sides. To my left, pūkeko forage in the darkness, the braver ones skirting the roadside verge. To my right lies one of the few remaining market gardens, where the robust smell of brassica and cabbage assault my senses. Whilst dark, I certainly know where I am. Countryside morphs into suburbia, the majority of the houses with curtains still drawn. The odd light draws attention, and I wonder about the day that awaits those setting about their morning routine. The upstairs flats I next pass are always with their lights on, windows and occasionally the door open. A place that appears never to sleep. A place for a trade. A place that seems to have a storied life.
I swing into Cambridge Terrace, navigating the pothole that sits waiting on my perfect line. Rather ironically, a pothole still on the run from our mayor’s infamous pothole gang. The ghostly darkness of the Barbadoes Street Cemetery, where many of the cities’ forefathers rest, envelops my route. This is a secluded part of the inner city where, among other things, fornication is a ˉ commodity oft traded. The Otākaro River Avon flows to my left, and at this time of the year, a committed whitebaiter sets up his stand. I am not sure what he thinks as I cycle through. ˉ I connect with Te Papa Otākaro Avon River Precinct, a project RMM played a role in and a promenade I unashamedly enjoy. At this time of the morning there are only the rabbits to greet me as the Canadian Geese have recently flown to lay in the Canterbury foothills. As I pass, Maurice packs his bed roll in Victoria Square. My commute is done, and I have barely scratched the surface of the narrative of the route I ride. rmmla.co.nz
R ACH A E L CO N E Managing Director of Total Realty
ON A DEADLINE Rachael Cone of Total Realty explains the ins and outs of a deadline sale.
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n our last column we discussed the pros and cons of the “auction option”, a popular method when selling property. With summer here and many homeowners considering their options regarding the sale of their home, we delve into the deadline sale method in this issue, which remains an equally popular yet rather unique approach to facilitating a property sale. The deadline sale method has gained in popularity among homeowners and real estate agents alike. It not only creates a sense of urgency among potential buyers but also encourages competitive offers without the pressure of an auction scenario.
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WHAT IS A DEADLINE SALE? For those less familiar with this sale method, it is a structured sale process where a property is marketed with a specified date by which written offers must be submitted. Unlike traditional auctions, where the sale price can fluctuate dramatically based on live bidding, deadline sales allow buyers to submit their best offers in writing by a specific deadline.
KEY FEATURES AND ADVANTAGES OF A DEADLINE SALE • Defined timeframe: Sellers set a clear deadline for when offers must be submitted, which can range from a few days to a few weeks. This timeframe helps to build anticipation and encourages buyers to make prompt decisions. • Written offers: Interested buyers submit their offers in writing. This format allows them to present their best price along with any conditions they have, which most commonly include finance, insurance, a builder’s inspection and sometimes the sale of their own property. • Transparency: Unlike traditional private treaty sales, a deadline sale provides a transparent process where buyers can compete against one another, knowing that multiple offers have been received. • Flexibility: This method allows the seller to consider a range of offers, allowing them to choose the one that best fits their needs, whether that be price, conditions or the buyer’s situation. The seller also has the flexibility of choosing whether or not they wish to advertise a price in their deadline sale marketing. • Competition: The competitive nature of a deadline sale can drive up the final sale price, as buyers strive to make the most favourable offer. Most sellers comment that the advantage a deadline sale
brings over an auction is the less intense environment at play, while still being able to capitalise on market competition. It is important to note that when a deadline sale does not have a price advertised it is because the seller has opted to let the market determine the value of the property. When this is the case, buyers will need to conduct market research to determine the fair market value of the property before submitting their offer. They should approach this task with careful consideration. The real estate agent will be able to provide buyers with recent sales statistics of comparable properties if they require guidance in this regard. In summary, the deadline sale method offers an approach to property sales in New Zealand that merges elements of traditional sales and auctions, while catering to our modern market demands. By fostering competition and providing a structured sales process, sellers can optimise their outcomes and buyers can enjoy a more relaxed and transparent environment in which to make informed buying decisions. If you would like any further information on these selling methods or real estate assistance in general our friendly team at Total Realty will be only too happy to help. totalrealty.co.nz
03 347 7356 office@nathancookbuilders.co.nz
nathancookbuilders.co.nz
RESTORING C ANTERBURY ’S CL ASSIC HOMES. THE TEAM AT NCB WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR CLIENTS AND SUBCONTRACTORS FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT THROUGHOUT 2024. WE WISH YOU ALL A RELAXING SUMMER BREAK. The team at Nathan Cook Builders’ expertise ranges from building extraordinary new homes and renovations through to creating outstanding outdoor spaces to enhance your home. Whether it is a new architectural build or an alteration, they tackle all types of projects. Your trusted local builders, servicing our community with exceptional workmanship since 2002.
PRIDE OF PLACE We shine a spotlight on three standouts from the 2024 National Kitchen & Bathroom Association awards, including the Supreme Bathroom Design.
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Modi Design took the gong for Supreme Bathroom Design in the 2024 NKBA awards.
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t was all about the light when it came to the design for the Supreme Bathroom Design winner in the 2024 NKBA Excellence in Design awards. “There is a window in the ensuite bathroom that looks out over the city, showing sky and glimpses of green hills,” says Modi Design’s director and principal interior designer, Georgia Langridge. “The client requested that the ensuite feel light and bright but also feel moody in the evening. He wanted to feel relaxed in the space.” Some clever spatial planning was the key. The shower encompasses the high window, allowing peeks at the view, and the
decorative glass enclosure maximises the natural light coming into the room. “The vanity took a central position in the ensuite to catch the natural light at the hanging mirrors and to create drama and height in the space,” says Georgia. A luxurious marble finish creates a highend feel, and LED lighting was designed for every scenario. This wasn’t Modi Design’s only win in the awards. The Christchurch interior design studio also took home the DNKBA Silver Kitchen Design, DNKBA Silver Bathroom Design and Canterbury Kitchen Design Recognition awards.
Other eye-catching winners in the 2024 awards include Comber and Comber in Christchurch, with a bathroom design that took home the DNKBA Gold Bathroom Design and Bathroom of Distinction awards. This bathroom was part of a full renovation in North Canterbury, says designer Lacey Exton, and has the feeling of an elegant day spa. And Hub Design in Queenstown won a Southern Kitchen Design Recognition and a People’s Choice award. The materials used reference the rugged Central Otago landscape, and the design meets the brief for something out of the ordinary, that allows for easy family living and entertaining, and a place to display a collection of antique pieces. This bathroom by Comber and Comber gained both DNKBA Gold Bathroom Design and Bathroom Distinction awards. The classic modern style complements the rest of the home.
modidesign.co.nz comberandcomber.com hubdesign.nz
Hub Design earned the Southern Kitchen Design Recognition award and the People's Choice award for this kitchen in a new home in Queenstown. The materials reference the rugged Central Otago landscape. 17
Inspiring Finds New looks, design ideas and finishing touches
Hot Pink Fringed Lampshade littleandfox.co.nz
Cholla Side Table in Strawberry biancalorenne.co.nz
TICKLED PINK Ellie Speaker & Lamp in Dusty Rose by Kreafunk paperplanestore.com
From blush to Barbie, this sweet colour shows no signs of fading away.
Grace Pedestal Bowl in Shell teapea.co.nz
Marina Dior Pink Rug aladdinrugs.co.nz
Lowdown Locker in Berry shutthefrontdoor.co.nz 18
Hobnail Candle in Grapefruit and Mint theaxe.co.nz
Gypsy Rose Resin Water Jug kipandco.com.au
Chilly Bin in Candy Pink napoleongoods.com
Leisure Boucle Chair in Pink teapea.co.nz
Forma Bedside Drawers in Coral mood.nz
Cloud Serving Spoons in Raspberry by Maison Balzac superette.co.nz
Marigold Embroidered Cushion littleandfox.co.nz
Iced Vovo Frilled Cushion kipandco.com.au
Santa Barbara Sofa in Elton Peach stacksfurniture.co.nz 19
Inspiring Finds New looks, design ideas and finishing touches
Seaweed Pillar Candle by Black Blaze superette.co.nz
Verso Vase in Terracotta achomestore.co.nz
Mare Wave Wallpaper in Deep Blue theinside.co.nz
Halcyon Wave Bowl in Orange/Peach ikoiko.co.nz
MAKING WAVES Give yourself some wiggle room with a dash of sashay in your decor.
Wiggle Side Chair by Frank Gehry for Vitra matisse.co.nz
Link Lamp accentlighting.co.nz
Form Rug boconcept.co.nz
Wave Bench in Black kayustudio.co.nz
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HELPING YOU REALISE YOUR DREAM BUILD, THROUGH CARE AND CRAFTSMANSHIP.
Jim the Builder
Gifting Edit abode stylists unwrap the joy of gifting with these curated home pieces, perfect for the festive season. CREATIVE DIRECTION AND PHOTOGRAPHY CHARLIE ROSE JACKSON STYLING AND WORDS SHELLEY SWEENEY
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Green salad The stunning new collection of accessories from nood sits pretty with a neutral sage backdrop in Resene Bud. These home accessories, fresh for the gifting season in white, dark green and shades of sage, connect with Resene Bud to create a biophilic mood. From the round rug, vases and cushions to the midcentury-inspired mushroom lamps and the versatile indoor/outdoor side table and stool, the new summer range from nood is all about curves and soothing organic greens.
SEAT ON THE SIDE Equally at home inside or outdoors, the powder-coated iron side table and hard-wearing curved stool are versatile pieces with classic good looks, ideal for summer entertaining. LIGHT UP Light up someone’s life with these metal mushroom-shaped lamps. Great as decorative pieces and available in a range of trending colours, for gifts with form and function. OBJECTS OF DESIRE Stoneware, glassware and porcelain vases in new shapes are a perfect partner for those summer seasonal blooms. TRENDING TEXTILES Whether you like scalloped edges for a retro flavour or abstract graphic prints for an artful interior, cushions are a small way to make a big impact in your space.
Products Yasmin Vase Green Medium and Large; Monstera Tree Medium and Large; Abstract Leaf Cushion Mid-Green/ White; Mack Check Throw Green/White; Tessa Ribbed Vase Sage; Pearl Cushion Mid Green/ Mint; Strand Side Table Green; Henri M Object Bone; Artoo Table Lamp Parchment; Orion Table Lamp Dark Green; Calabash Vase Laurel Green Tall; Ball Vase; Juniper Vase Green; Axel Round Wool Rug Forest; Corsica Stool Green nood.co.nz; Resene Bud resene.co.nz/colorshops
Resene Bud
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Summer sand A selection of tableware and gifts from Any Excuse stands out amid a soft backdrop of Resene Double Spanish White and plinth in Resene Piha Sand. The warm creamy tones of Resene Spanish White and Resene Piha Sand bring a coastal vibe to the collection of stoneware, wood and brass giftware from Any Excuse.
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Jug RG Heirloom Tall; Dried wheat decor; Harmie Pebble Vase; Hawthorne Artisan Breadboard; Trinket Wren Dish; Curate book; Hawthorne Wooden Camel anyexcuse.co.nz; Resene Double Spanish White and Resene Piha Sand resene.co.nz/colorshops
Resene Double Spanish White
Resene Piha Sand
Resene Meringue
Resene Fluffy Duck
Resene Idyllic
Curated colour This curation of colourful pieces from Bolt of Cloth connects with the wall in Resene Meringue, plinth in Resene Fluffy Duck and floor in Resene Idyllic. Art comes in many forms, including homeware, and the art of giving is just as varied. Pinks, blues, yellows and orange shades combine in a collection of gifts for that special someone who enjoys a touch of novelty.
Unikko Shape Plate; Banks Peninsula 3D Wooden Map; Orla Kiely Early Bird Mug; Lexon Flip + Alarm Clock in Yellow and Orange; Lexon Tykho 3 Radio/Speaker in Duck Blue; Bikers Embroidered Cushion Cover with feather inner; Disco Leopard Rug – Small; Hinza Green Plastic Bag in Dusty Pink; French Bulldog Salt and Pepper Shakers boltofcloth.com; Resene Meringue; Resene Fluffy Duck and Resene Idyllic resene.co.nz/colorshops
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DECK THE HALLS Celebrate the season with lush artificial garlands and greenery hand-crafted by Curated Botanics.
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dd a high-end feel to your holidays by decorating with timeless greenery, garlands, trees and wreaths. And to avoid any wilting, the key is to go faux. Curated Botanics captures the Christmas spirit with its range of long-lasting botanical pieces that add warmth and elegance to any home. A family feeling is at its core, as Curated Botanics is a creative collaboration between two talented sisters. Abbey is the founder of Abbey Lang Home, an Auckland interior design studio, and Heather is a florist with a degree in Fine Arts. Together, they create faux botanicals to provide the perfect finishing touches – no matter what time of year, as the collections also include floral arrangements, potted plants and trees, as well as homeware and decor. Abbey and Heather share a love for Christmas in particular, and the release of their festive collection every year is highly anticipated. Beautiful displays at an open home event in Auckland launches each collection, with hundreds of attendees, and everything is available for delivery throughout New Zealand. The team at Curated Botanics believes in the joy and warmth that this season brings, so the goal is to offer Christmas decor that brings that feeling into your home and helps create lasting memories. The premium Christmas collection is hand-crafted in New Zealand, using carefully chosen artificial foliage and flowers, which means that no two pieces are exactly alike. Whether it’s for simple touches of Christmas decorating or going all-out, these natureinspired pieces add cosy layers of texture. Every piece is made to capture the essence of a classic Kiwi Christmas, and comes with a storage or gift box to keep it safe as a treasured keepsake for many years to come.
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curatedbotanics.com
SUMMER SHOWCASE Our special feature is bursting with ideas and advice for making the most of the holidays at home.
SUMMER SHOWCASE
Life on the waterfront in Akaroa, page 38.
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