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LAKES BUSINESS

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Bringing the style - Hub Design Interiors’ Carmen Hubber, pictured with her daughters

LAKES

At home in the forest

by Paul Taylor

Hidden away in tranquil beech forest near Mt Creighton are two rural retreats that recently scooped national architecture awards.

Queenstown’s Carolin Friese, of Carolin Friese Architecture, took home three awards for Tall Tree House and e Cove, at the 2024 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Award last month. Tall Tree House won a National Award for New Home up to 150sqm and also the lauded National ADNZ Resene Kaitiakitanga Award, something Friese is particularly proud of. e Cove, a standalone hideaway on the same property, took home the National Award for Home Interiors.

“ e Cove is an exploration of super e cient planning and small scale living,” Friese says. “ e clients wanted to gure out how small you could live without compromising on comfort, quality or atmosphere.

“It’s a very unique place, a little gem in the forest. e design came from the idea of having a cigar room, behind this velvet green curtain, with double doors reclaimed from an old pub in Christchurch, and high ceilings so it feels comfortable but still spacious.”

While e Cove explores size, and looks like one of the best places in Queenstown to sit back and read a good book, the 130sqm Tall Tree House puts sustainability to the fore.

“It was designed to last generations, utilising the best building practice, and with thermal e ciency at its heart. Performance was a major factor,” she says.

“For me, performance doesn’t compromise aesthetics. And the function of a house should be an enclosure; a comfortable, dry and warm space for the inhabitants.

“ e design was inspired by moody European alpine cabins, which ties in with the native beech forest it sits in. When you walk through the house you get completely di erent glimpses of the forest and the mountains, and it frames the view rather than exposing you to it.”

Is it di cult to let go of a project once it’s completed?

“I feel passionate about all of my projects and create a deep connection with my clients. However, my general vision is to make sure that we are creating sustainable buildings which will be enjoyed by the clients and future generations alike. I take pride in creating spaces that allow pople to thrive and relax.”

An architect and certi ed passive house designer, Friese has been working in the Queenstown Lakes region for 12 years, creating beautiful, sustainable and energy e cient homes. She’s the founder of Bob’s Cove Punatapu Community Trust, and is passionate about conservation.

She says the awards mark a “very big milestone and achievement” for her. “Especially the Kaitiakitanga Award, which celebrates sustainable design to protect the future of New Zealand.”

Judges said Tall Tree House, designed with passive principles in mind, “embodies a harmonious blend of simplicity and sophistication” ensuring both functionality and tranquillity.

“Its well-resolved, simple form seamlessly integrates timber and metal claddings, creating a timeless aesthetic that respects its natural surroundings. Inside, the voluminous interior captivates with its moody colours and nishes, while strategically positioned windows frame picturesque views, inviting the beauty of the outdoors inside.”

e Cove, meanwhile, has a “serene atmospheric interior environment” and “exempli es super-e cient planning and small-scale living”.

“It integrates judicious use of materials combining modesty with meticulous attention to detail throughout the design. A centrally located double-height living area creates a tall, elegant volume despite the compact footprint. Every square metre is optimised for function without compromising its visual qualities and atmosphere.”

For more info visit www.cf-architecture.co.nz

The Cove interior - Photo: Gabriel Adda

Tall Tree House - Photo: Gabriel Adda

Truﬁll® High Performance Insulation for Queenstown’s New Build Homes

With recent population growth in the Queenstown area, the building industry has been busy developing new homes and apartments to cater to this demand. Given the extreme temperature uctuations in the region over summer and winter, it is important that new homes are well insulated and thermally e cient. at is why Absolute Energy is proud to introduce a new high-performance insulation solution to the industry, which is perfect for Queenstown homesTru ll® blown insulation.

Tru ll® blown insulation has been developed by Safe-R Insulation, speci cally to meet the increased H1 insulation standards recently introduced in the New Zealand Building Code. Tru ll® makes achieving these new requirements simple, as it can be used to insulate all areas of a home, including ceilings, walls, and oors. e comprehensive coverage it provides

ensures that your new home will be both comfortable and cost-e ective when it comes to energy use. Unlike traditional insulation, Tru ll® is a blown insulation product that can be installed at variable densities and completely lls a wall, oor, or ceiling cavity. Unlike other insulation products, Tru ll® leaves no gaps or voids once installed, ensuring high R-values and superior thermal performance. Tru ll® helps create a complete thermal barrier around a house between inside and outside air, helping to maintain stable indoor temperatures. is helps to reduce the reliance on heating and cooling systems and in turn lowers your homes energy usage.

Absolute Energy has been installing insulation in South Island homes for more than 20 years. Over this time we’ve insulated over 25,000 homes and impacted the lives of more than 75,000 people. We

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Hub Design Interiors - generational designs

Interiors are in the blood for Hub Design Interiors’ Carmen Hubber, her Queenstown interior design company now boasting multiple New Zealand and Australasian awards, some of the region’s most luxurious, high-end homes among them.

Founded in 2003, the company has become a leading name in Queenstown’s interior design scene, earning several notable accolades during the past 10 years. ese include the Southern Region Best Kitchen Award and the coveted People’s Choice Award at the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA) Awards in 2024.

As founder and director Carmen, the company’s visionary leader, brings more than 30 years’ experience to every room. Her expertise was rst recognised with the Emerging Designer Award in 2014, an honour later awarded to her daughter, Ruby, at the 2023 APT Design Awards, marking yet another signi cant generational milestone for the Hubber family.

Hub Design’s commitment to quality cra smanship and passion for design is deeply rooted in Carmen’s family’s legacy. Sixty- ve years ago, her father David Hubber and uncle Lloyd Hubber started their ooring business in Gore, laying carpet and vinyl. “ at led to Lloyd opening Hubber’s Furnishings in Christchurch, where I began my own journey in interior design, aged 22,” Carmen says. She started out consulting on carpet and curtains in Christchurch working her way ‘from the ground up’.

by Sue Fea

Carmen still takes pride in the family business, valuing the personal connection it fosters with clients. “I prefer being a face and name behind the business rather than hiding behind a faceless corporation,” she says. Personal touch de nes her business.

With decades of experience locally Carmen now has her own trusted team of skilled sub-contractors and years of working with wholesalers and importers means she can secure competitive prices. “I’ve developed a deep understanding of trades and construction through the years which ensures high standards of cra smanship and a strong focus on natural materials,” she says. “I’m passionate about creating spaces that are beautiful and functional.” Each project is cra ed to support daily life while re ecting the client’s style.

Carmen loves strong colours drawn from nature. Her company designs its own unique, custom-made furniture using a variety of natural products. “We create artistry through design using beautiful fabrics and textures,” she says. “We’re seeing in uences from the 1950s to 1970s in colours, textures and patterns at present. Golds are becoming so er, more champagne than brassy, and we’re seeing a lot of chocolate coming through with the bronze and copper.”

She also works with clients wanting to furnish standout Airbnbs and spec houses, o ering specialty cost e ective interior and furniture packages.

“Together, we bring each client’s vision to life and prove that exceptional design is possible at any scale.”

Hub Design won two NZ Kitchen Bathroom Design Association awards for this work for the Hills at Arrowtown - Best Kitchen Southern Region and People’s Choice

Building Dreams in Central Otago: The Signature Homes Approach

Central Otago has become an increasingly popular place for those looking to build their dream homes. At the heart of this growth is a local team that’s passionate about homes and genuinely cares about the people they build them for: Chris and Renee, the owners of Signature Homes Central Otago.

From the moment you meet them, it’s clear that Chris and Renee and their team are a unique combination of humble and experienced, with a deep understanding of both the building process and the needs of their clients. Chris, a seasoned builder, has a long history of quality builds under his tool belt. “I’m a builder by trade, and at one point, I was managing over twenty builds at once,” he says with a wry smile, rubbing his hands — the hands of a man who’s put in his time in the eld. “But a builder’s body can only take so much,” he laughs.

Yet, despite the tough physical demands of the trade, Chris and Renee have found a way to create a lasting, e ective partnership embarking on their next adventure with Signature Homes. Together, they’ve built a reputation for providing quality, personalised service to every client they work with.

Over the last couple of years, the Signature Homes Central Otago team has successfully handed over many homes, with client feedback consistently re ecting the dedication and care the team puts into each project.

A Team Approach

At Signature Homes Central Otago, it’s not just about Chris and Renee — it’s about the entire team. “We’ve built a strong team that has experience and genuinely enjoys what they do,” says Renee. “Each day, we come to the o ce ready to help make our clients’ visions for their homes a reality.” is is what sets them apart: the genuine enthusiasm and passion for building runs through the entire Signature Homes team. e team approach is essential, especially when creating homes that meet the unique needs of clients in Central Otago, where the landscape, climate, and

lifestyle preferences vary signi cantly. Chris and Renee have worked hard to build a team of professionals who are not only skilled but also aligned with their philosophy of collaboration, transparency, and high standards.

e Right Plan for Every Lifestyle

One of the standout features of Signature Homes Central Otago is the variety of home plans, each designed to suit di erent lifestyles and environments. Whether you’re planning to build in a rural area or closer to Queenstown’s excitement, Signature Homes o ers versatile designs that blend seamlessly with the region’s stunning landscapes.

Take e Meadows, for example — a home plan ideal for those who dream of warm summer evenings spent outdoors, a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir in hand, while taking in breathtaking mountain views. is plan is designed to create a space that balances indoor comfort with outdoor living, perfect for relaxation and entertaining alike.

For those looking to retire or downsize, e Matakana o ers a design focused on easy living without sacri cing comfort. It’s the perfect sanctuary for those who have fallen in love with Central Otago and are looking for a home that complements their next chapter.

ese homes are more than just structures; they are thoughtfully cra ed to meet their owners’ speci c needs and aspirations.

Real-Time Pricing for Peace of Mind

Another key feature that sets Signature Homes apart is the advanced technology they use to provide accurate, real-time pricing. Chris explains, “Everyone is busy these days, constantly moving from one task to another. Providing fast pricing helps alleviate uncertainties immediately.” eir cutting-edge pricing tool allows clients to see updated costs in real time as adjustments are made, ensuring transparency and peace of mind throughout the build process.

is level of service and innovation is part of the reason so many people are choosing Signature Homes Central Otago to build their dream homes. With a focus on delivering value, quality, and e ciency, the team ensures that each project is completed not only to the highest standard but also within the client’s budget and timeline.

A Commitment to Quality

If you’re considering building in New Zealand’s adventure capital, Signature Homes Central Otago is the ideal team to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re planning a cosy getaway or a sprawling family home, Chris, Renee, and their expert team will work with you to design and build a space that suits your needs and celebrates the beauty of the region. For a home that’s built with heart, look no further than Signature Homes Central Otago.

Signature Homes Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago

Bursts then bumps for local building industry

by Jessica Allen

ere’s a whopping $12 billion in the construction pipeline for Queenstown Lakes, according to the latest gures from Pacifecon. at comprises 508 projects across all sectors, with residential builds making up 21% of that number, and 18% of the value.

Pacifecon are a New Zealand business that have been reporting on our construction industry for over 40 years. While overall, we’re seeing costs stabilising across the industry, researcher Carolyn Rennie says that Central Otago can be slightly di erent to the rest of the country as there’s more diversity in the location of developers working here.

“Wānaka and Queenstown at the moment are both strong in standalone houses and apartments – at building and resource consent level – at that new stage,” Rennie says. “ e work at the moment seems to come in bursts, and then it dies o again, so it’s unpredictable. ere is a sense that when these bursts of work comes in, it’s old projects, rather than new construction projects – maybe they’ve had it on the back burner for quite some time.”

In the past 12 months, 899 projects commenced construction at a value of $2 billion. Residential made up $1,184,512,914 of this number. Singling out Wānaka – there’s currently 188 projects to the value of $2,461 million in the pipeline, with no apartments on the cards.

Philip Dawes is the research manager at Pacifecon. He’s responsible for managing and leading the nationwide research and edit team to ensure all information put out is accurate and of high quality. He’s across what’s happening in the residential sector across the country and oversees each report with a keen interest in the Market Watch.

“By the end of August, New Zealand had 6,566 residential projects in early planning stages, which represents the intention of residential activity, valued at $103 billion,” Dawes says. “As expected, the number of these intended projects has slightly decreased when compared to 2023 due to caution in the residential sector, however, these gures remain higher than those before 2021 and beyond.”

Some trends we’re seeing in the residential sector speci cally includes an increase in the number of town houses and apartments popping up around the country. Of the 107 residential projects in our local pipeline, it is interesting to note that 18 are apartment buildings at a value of $515 million – something not as common for our region, but growing in popularity. Some projects to highlight in the region include two large healthcare projects in Wānaka – the Wānaka Health Hub and the ROA Healthcare Precinct. ere’s also the Mount Iron Junction mixed-use development that has been selected for fast-track resource consent, and resource consent has been granted for MetLife Wānaka Retirement Village. Nine

projects in Queenstown have been selected for the Government’s new fast-track development pathway including Silver Creek, a 1050-lot subdivision above Frankton Road and e Hills Resort Development, an 18-hole championship golf course and resort. Civil works have commenced on a number of subdivisions. “Work is starting to ow better,” Rennie says. “ ere seems to be a sense of not wanting to be mired in a council queue for consenting, to not slow down expedition of a possible shovel ready project. In terms of build costs, some things are slightly less expensive, but the biggest thing that impacts pricing is if the bigger builders are busy or not. e ow-on e ect of this means a project will be tendered, which provides competitive pricing.”

Taking a look at Cromwell, things appear to be pretty steady over that way. e Wooing Tree mixed-use development will see 380 houses being built, with a commercial element to it, too. Rennie is also seeing a steady stream of building consents owing through for the standalone houses – they’re now up to stage three of the project.

“ e cellar door has been completed, and the childcare centre completion is expected in 2025, so now that seems to be popping along. In terms of building consents in the Central Otago area as a whole, I would say there’s slightly fewer than previous years, but there’s still a lot in terms of stand-alone housing and apartments.”

It seems to be the consensus that the ‘bump’ in our construction industry is in part thanks to developers that are based overseas. Where a local developer can make quick and informed decisions, a developer in Australia or Singapore may have a very di erent decision-making process – perhaps they adopt a world-economy view rather than a local-economic one.

e fast-track scheme could help to push along some of the bursts of work, and allow a more steady pipeline for Queenstown. More residential housing that isn’t snapped up by holiday-home investors would certainly be welcome.

If you’d like to read more of Pacifecon’s reporting on the industry as a whole, you can head to pacifecon.co.nz

Refresh Renovations® is here to help

Tempting as it is to roll your sleeves up and take a sledge hammer to those old bathroom tiles, if you don’t have a detailed plan, some serious skills and a lot of free time, your DIY bathroom renovation could well end up with you crying in front of a wonky new mirror.

Even nding, hiring and wrangling decent independent tradies during Queenstown’s construction boom can be a headache, with no guarantee you’ll be able to communicate your vision for your single-room or complete home renovation, or that they’ll be able to deliver a quality nish within budget.

Refresh Renovations® in Queenstown-Lakes and Central Otago is here to help.

“We’re really about investing time into the planning process, ensuring our customers have a great design and a really well-thought out approach to the renovation as a whole,” Renovation Consultant Kathleen Magon says.

“Quite o en rookie renovators, (this includes myself in the past), get really excited by an idea and jump right in. But when you’re learning along the way, they can be expensive lessons. Even for a single-room renovation, a kitchen or bathroom for example, they can be potentially the most valuable rooms in your house, so you want to do justice to those spaces. If your home is worth $2 million, the renovation should be re ective of the overall value. It should also be functional, which, combined with the aesthetics, increases the value and enjoyment of living there.”

Before a hammer is even picked up, Refresh Renovations® deliver customers a 360° computer-generated walk-through of the renovated space, so they can see how everything looks together.

“We sit down with customers and talk through their initial ideas, translating that into a concept and helping with selections. Once we’ve got a concept design, we can give them an indicative cost, let them know roughly how long it will take, so they can plan around how long their kitchen will be out of action. en we create a photo-realistic 3D render of the space for a virtual tour. It’s such an incredible tool that really gives homeowners the con dence they’re making the right decision for their family and their home. We want our customers to have as much information as possible, so they can make informed decisions.”

Refresh Renovations® o er a complete design-to-build service, from singleroom renovations to full home renovations, both interior and exterior, including landscaping. ey can improve insulation, upgrade glazing, change oor plans to improve functionality, reclad exteriors, and completely refresh kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, lounges and everything else. ey can also manage the council resource consent process if required. Customers don’t need to have any involvement at all, which is helpful for people with investment properties who live elsewhere.

e company has preferred relationships with a whole range of local trades and is the main liaison to them, helping translate homeowners’ wishes into tradie talk, ensuring they get what they actually want.

“We’ve got really good relationships with key trades, who are used to working with us and understand what our expectations are. And, most importantly, they stand behind the quality of their work, so we know our customers will get the outcome they’re really happy with and they will love spending time in their new space.

“Overall, we’re here to guide people through the renovation journey and mitigate the various pitfalls along the way. Building can be disruptive and stressful so we here to help make the process as seamless as possible, with a wonderful quality build as the end result.”

For more information call 0800 758 012 or visit www.refreshrenovations.co.nz/locations/queenstown-wanaka

Rebeca Barnes - Financial Adviser in conjunction with Soda Queenstown would like to thank the following businesses for their support in our first annual Long Ladies Lunch at Soda Queenstown on the 22nd November, this year raising funds for Central Lakes Family Services.