Your_Home_and_Garden__June_2017

SHOP Dining chair, BUDGET: $40,000
$39, from
THEIR STYLE Kmart. + Roofing – $11,000; exterior painting – $16,500;
kitchen – $1000; interior – $9000; pizza oven, top
Rustic French furniture, cane, wirework terrace and garden – $1000; miscellaneous – $1500.
and linen bring layers of comfort to + How did your budget forecast compare to your
a timeless white-on-white scheme actual spend? We didn’t plan a budget. We knew
there would be bigger jobs, such as the roofing and
Collected wall exterior painting, that would need a budget, but the
shelf with hooks, other jobs were quite minimal and we knew we’d just
$165, from Worthy pay as we went. We didn’t get any nasty surprises, so
it never felt like our budget was stretched.
Homeware, + What areas of your home do you save or
wwworthy.co.nz. splurge on? I love a good bargain yet I love quality,
too, so I usually splurge (to a reasonable extent) on
Vintage potato harvest pure linen bedding. We also splurge when we ship
basket, $140, from furniture from France every now and again.
The Vitrine. + Do you tend to buy high-end homeware or seek
out a bargain? Neither; we make considered choices.
Vintage army I recommend spending big on a sofa that will last and
stool, $150, collecting tableware from op shops (our dinner set is
Crown Lynn Apollo).
from The + Best advice when it comes to spending money
Vitrine. on a home? Do what makes you happy; do not think
about resale too much. Create a home for you.
+ How did you keep track of costs during the
makeover? We would look at our plan before starting
a room, and ask ourselves what we really wanted
in there. What should be the priority? This house
only needed basic cosmetic work, so there was
never anything that would break the bank. If there
was something expensive we wanted to do, we just
waited until we’d gathered the funds.

Gold toadstool Products compiled by Lauren Freeman. Photography by Bauer Media Group Studio.
lamp, AU$129.99,
from Leo & Bella.

Esther dining FINISHES
table, $4990,
from French 1

Country.

2

Maria cabinet, Madras rug in natural, $349, from Freedom. 3
$2395, from
FOR STOCKISTS TURN TO PAGE 141. 1 Wooden floors sanded and painted in Farrow & Ball
French Country. ‘Strong White’, with a coat of clear, matte, water-
based varnish on top.
50 | yhg 2 Scullery cabinet made by Elliot and painted in
Dulux ‘Castleclif’.
3 Polished concrete kitchen bench made by Elliot.

FLOOR PLAN 7 KEY Roll out the
6 1 Entrance good times!
22 2 Bedroom
5 3 Hot water WHO NEEDS FEET WHEN
cupboard YOU HAVE WHEELS?
4 Dining
5 Kitchen
6 Scullery
7 Bathroom
8 Living
9 Study

7 4
8 3

12

9

COLOUR PALETTE

BRITISH PAINTS
‘Star White’

BRITISH PAINTS
‘Ace of Spades’

YOU CAN DO THIS… HONESTY BOX Furniture. Simply.

1 You do not need built-in cupboards for + Best lesson learned? Plan your timing well 0800 MELUKA S GN D A MA N EW ZEALAND
storage. Open shelving is a practical and and precisely.
aesthetically appealing alternative. + What would you never do again? Make THREE KINGS 983 MT D N ROAD
2 Use attractive, identical boxes to organise a concrete benchtop inside the room in which
your ofice area. it is planned to go. NORTH SHORE 3A NK R
3 Edit your decor regularly to prevent clutter + DIY disasters? None.
from taking over. + What’s one thing you would change about B O TA N Y 0 R K U RV
4 Baskets are a very decorative storage your home if you could? We would love to add
option, especially small ones, which you can an extension from the dining room to create a TA U R A N G A 4/68 CAMERON R AD
often find for a steal in op shops. family room. A small, shallow pool somewhere in
the garden would be lovely, too. HASTINGS 8 AU GA
+ What is the most memorable experience
you’ve had in your home (good or bad)? All our WELLINGTON 28 RUTHERFORD ST
lovely pizza nights outside with friends, and my
30th birthday party.

CONTACTS

+ Suppliers We would highly recommend
Paul Makuch Roofing, 07 847 9785.

meluka.co.nz

MEET + GREET

Angela Law, 44 (massage therapist), Clif Law, 45
(specialist gym floor installer), Beau, 23, and Krissy, 14,
plus cat Morrin. Sons Gregor and Wade live in the UK.

A FAMILY
AFFAIR

The Law clan’s can-do attitude and in-house expertise helped transform
this dated East Auckland house into a modern, fun and functional home

Text by Annick Larkin. Photography by Helen Bankers.

52 | yhg

BACKGROUND Angela and Cliff Law HOMES

weren’t looking for a project when they walked Industrial lights and
into a do-up down a quiet cul-de-sac in 2010. subway tiles in the
But where others were quick to dismiss its clean, white kitchen
dark and dated 1980s interior, this couple were a bargain find
had a hunch that it could be the family home online and perfectly
they were looking for. “Its bones were great,” complemented the look
explains Angela, “but it had threadbare avocado Angela had in mind.
carpets, wood-panelled walls reminiscent of
a log cabin, dark ceiling beams, a peach ensuite
and purple-glitter lino floors.” However, the
house’s location in the eastern Auckland suburb
of Howick sealed the deal. “It’s in an excellent
street, safe and quiet, with a large reserve at
the end,” says Angela. They purchased the
rather forlorn house with the firm conviction
that it could become a light, bright haven for
themselves and their four children.

OH-SO-EIGHTIES The house was

built in the early 1980s and the kitchen and
bathroom were both in their original state. The
home’s greatest tribute to its era, though, was
clearly a centrally located glass atrium which
housed a spa pool. “It was very strange as
everyone would have been able to walk around
the house looking at you!” says Angela. Aside
from its oddity, the atrium was also a waste of
precious floor space. “It definitely put buyers
off purchasing the house,” recalls Angela. “We
overheard several people commenting on it at
the open home but, luckily for us, we could see
the atrium’s potential.”

yhg | 53

THE KITCHEN The kitchen is the heart

of the modern family home and to Angela it is
the most important room in her house. “I always
knew I was going to have white cabinetry and
I love the look of a high-gloss finish,” she says.

As the budget was tight, Angela scoured
Trade Me for bargains and picked up her
Ariston oven and induction cooktop for a song.
“The oven and cooktop came from a showhome
and, although they had never been used, were
still considered secondhand. This meant the
price tag was considerably less than if we’d
bought new,” explains Angela. She also picked
up the industrial pendant lights and splashback
subway tiles for less than $100 in total. “I love
finding bargains as it allows you to do more and
buy more things,” says Angela.

54 | yhg

A feature wall in HOMES
Resene blackboard
paint ofers an area The home’s dark wood
for family notices panelling was painted
and reminders, as white throughout and
well as inspiring ofset with black
quotes and artwork. accents including
a blackboard feature
wall in the dining area.
The living area is
a cosy and casual
space designed for
chilled-out family
time and movie nights.

THE PLAN The couple and two of their

children, Beau and Krissy, lived in the home for
about a year and a half before the renovation
began. “It was a hard slog, but we could see the
big picture,” recalls Angela. “The kitchen had
only two working stovetop elements and most
of the cupboards were falling apart.”

During the renovation, the couple planned
to install a new kitchen, move the entryway,
enclose the atrium to create a dining room,
and carve out an open-plan living space
with generous indoor-outdoor flow. They
engaged architect Sarah Muggeridge, who
drew up plans to convert the home’s dated
interior into a beautiful, contemporary family
home. Unfortunately the house’s Modulock
construction – where the walls don’t have
any framing – made things a little more
complicated. Enter Airey Consultants,
a structural engineering firm, who proposed
extra metal bracing in order to pass inspection.

yhg | 55

When they moved in,
the master bedroom
was panelled in
varnished wood. As
soon as she was able,
Angela painted over
it in Resene Karen
Walker ‘Milk White’

BEDROOMS Back when the family first

moved in, the master bedroom was entirely
covered in varnished wood panelling. As
soon as she was able, Angela painted over it
in Resene Karen Walker ‘Milk White’. As the
bedroom wasn’t huge, Angela and Cliff decided
to install a sliding door to the walk-in wardrobe
as a space-saving strategy. “I’d seen barn doors
on Pinterest so I thought we could add some
interest by hanging one in our bedroom,” says
Angela. She hunted around and ended up
purchasing a 100-year-old door on Trade Me.
Cliff restored and painted it before attaching it
to the hardware Angela had purchased online.
“I got the barn slider hardware brand new for
$190, which included delivery from America,”
she explains. “It was a great find as the
cheapest we could get in New Zealand was
in excess of $800.”

In Krissy’s room, Angela gave her daughter
free rein to choose her own colours and
furniture. “In the six years we have lived here,
this is the fifth colour combination Krissy has
had,” smiles Angela. Her current look features
black vinyl wall dots, soft pink and plenty of
texture. The dresser was another inexpensive
purchase on Trade Me which Angela upcycled
in Annie Sloan chalk paint.

56 | yhg

HOMES

Krissy has very
professionally tied her
bedroom look together
by repeating the wall
dots on a pillowcase and
again with an extra large
dot on the drawers.
Accents of dusky pink
provide a soft touch of
colour – the lamp was
painted to match. The
cute little dressing
table (opposite) was a
Trade Me find repainted
by Angela.

yhg | 57

Add splashes of THE WORKS In 2012 the renovation was
greenery to bring
life and colour into in full swing. Angela and Cliff did most of the
a space. Even the work themselves – aside from a few structural
tiniest cactus or jobs that had to be done by a registered master
fern will have an builder. Their eldest son, Wade, is a plumber by
trade so was able to do all the plumbing work.
impact! Brent Holzer, an electrician and close family
friend, installed all the wiring at cost, which
also helped to keep the budget under control.
Cliff’s building experience came in handy, too
– he did all the tiling and installed the kitchen,
bathroom and timber floors throughout.

“I did most of the painting and bought all
the furniture and fittings, which is my favourite
thing to do ever,” smiles Angela. It would take
a further year before all the building work was
complete. “We lived in the house the whole
time,” explains Angela. “It was a bit like
camping – we cooked on an electric frying pan
and did the dishes in the bath.”

58 | yhg

HOMES

SHOP IT

A round mirror
(this one is $35
from Kmart),
softens lots of
vertical lines.

A sliding barn door
saves on space in the
master bedroom and
was installed at
a fraction of the going
rate due to Angela’s
keen nose for a bargain.

MAKE IT MONOCHROME GET THE LOOK Round mirror
with shelf, $35,
The effect Angela wanted to achieve when Lappljung Ruta cushion cover,
renovating her home was a feeling of balance $29.99, from Zoomly. from Kmart.
and calm. A timeless combo of black and white
with subtle additions of colour certainly hits General Eclectic yhg | 59
the brief, but also makes this a practical and Herringbone
comfortable home. “You’re allowed to put your throw, $129,
feet on the coffee table here – it’s distressed from Shut The
anyway – and feet and popcorn are also okay Front Door.
on the couch,” says Angela. In the dining room,
a feature wall painted in Resene blackboard
paint is both chic and functional. “It primarily
originated from the need to have somewhere for
the family to write down where and what they
were doing,” explains Angela. “But it also came
from my love of black and white.” Although
almost every wall in the house is white,
Angela’s use of texture and pattern means the
monochrome palette is far from flat. Splashes
of colour, timber accents and potted greenery
have been used with restraint, but bring
warmth and personality to every room.

The man cave was built THE GREAT OUTDOORS
from a kitset to house
Clif’s rugby jersey Like most Kiwis, Angela and Cliff prefer to
collection, but the area spend as much of the summer outdoors as
is enjoyed by the whole possible. “We originally had a very basic outdoor
family, particularly its living area,” says Angela. “The space was bare,
outdoor dining zone. aside from a large phoenix palm in the middle
of a small lawn – it was far too big for the size
60 | yhg of the garden.” Deciding to put the space to
better use, the couple opted to build a large
covered deck as well as a man cave that comes
complete with a big-screen TV, Sky Sport and
a collection of signed rugby jerseys from the All
Blacks and other teams (which Angela didn’t
want hung inside the house).

“The man cave is at the front of our house
and is accessible via the deck that opens off
the kitchen and living area,” says Angela. The
couple built it themselves after purchasing
a kitset on Trade Me and have spent most
weekends over the past five months tinkering
away at the build. To maintain a little privacy
from their neighbours, Angela installed a copper-
look wood-composite screen (from Bunnings)
at the far end of the deck. “I saw it used on The
Block Australia – it’s a wonderful product and
gives the deck an element of interest.”

The deck and man cave have proved to be
well-used extensions of the family’s living areas.
“We’ve hosted many barbecues and most nights
we sit outside at the bar leaner to eat,” says
Angela. “It’s been a great investment.” Not only
that – we’d say they’ve scored a winning try. •

> Find the things you love from this home on page 140.

HOMES

yhg | 61

SHOP HONESTY BOX

THEIR STYLE + Where have you saved money in your home?
Angela: Upcycling old pieces of furniture and picking
A black and white scheme is far from up some big ticket items for a song on Trade Me.
austere with fun patterns, light timber + Any splurges? I’m not big on splurges unless
accents and a dash of industrial chic I think I can’t live without it, but one thing I will spend
money on is good-quality linen. I love my linen sheets
3 Light Retro A3 framed and bedspread. I also love my large print in the
Servery lights, ‘Wander’ lounge which I had framed.
$699, from Early print, $89.99, + Best buy? The brand-new vanity and basin from
from Shut Trade Me ($13). It had a ceramic bowl and a $1
Settler. The Front reserve. We had no idea if it would be any good or
would need to go straight in the skip, but it was
Door. fantastic and our best bargain buy.
+ Any DIY disasters? None.
+ What would you change? I would change the
position of the cavity slider in the hall as you can see
straight into the laundry, and of course a laundry isn’t
the most beautiful of rooms. I should have moved it
to the side so you saw a painting instead.
+ Best lesson learned? Things always cost about
twice as much and take twice as long as you expect.
Patience is key to decorating and renovating.
+ Three style tips…
• Don’t be afraid to try to upcycle things rather
than buying new.
• Buy pieces that make you happy and make you
smile every time you see them.
• Stay true to your own style so your home is a place
you love to live in.

Two-tone hallway table, Cement Products compiled by Lauren Freeman. Photography by Bauer Media Group Studio.
$55, from Kmart. gem, $8.99,
from Shut
Lappljung Ruta rug, The Front
$379, from Zoomly.
Door.
FINISHES
Pink table
lamp, $19, 1
from Kmart

Mode two-seater sofa, 2
$1299, from Early Settler.
3
FOR STOCKISTS TURN TO PAGE 141.
1 Blackboard wall painted in Resene blackboard
paint and decorated with liquid chalk pens.
2 Kitchen splashback was made with subway tiles
purchased on Trade Me.
3 Carpet is a nylon carpet from Carpet Court.

62 | yhg

FLOOR PLAN 2 1 CONTACTS
3 7
11 + Shops 101 Howick, facebook.com/101Howick (my
favourite local shop for homewares; I always find
4 something to buy there). Hunter Furniture,
furniture.co.nz. Early Settler, earlysettler.co.nz.
6 KEY Romantique, romantique.co.nz. Shut The Front Door,
5 1 Bedroom shutthefrontdoor.co.nz. Junk & Disorderly for all sorts
2 Ensuite of treasures, junkndisorderly.co.nz.
89 3 Wardrobe + Suppliers The wonderful electrician Brent Holzer
4 Bathroom at Betta Vision, 027 365 7192. All Go Plumbing (where
5 Laundry my son Wade worked), allgoplumbing.co.nz. Builder
6 Dining Jamie McKinstry, 021 359 771.
7 Entry
8 Kitchen BUDGET
9 Living
+ Overall spend Around $76,000
YOU CAN DO THIS… + Kitchen cabinetry $17,000
+ Oven and cooktop $900
1 Purchase a wire frame from a + Joinery $8000
building supply store. Spray-paint it + Flooring $4000
black and fix to an outside wall. + Carpet $4500
2 Paint a selection of pots white then + Couch $4000
use a stencil to spray-paint designs + Builder $20,000
onto them. + Electrician $4000
3 Attach pots to the frame with wire, + Tiles in kitchen $60
securing them tightly under the rim. + Tiles in ensuite $1500
4 Fill pots with soil and succulents or + Ensuite cabinetry $93
herbs for an eye-catching and useful + Architect $4000
outdoor display. + Structural engineer $800
+ Council fees and permit $3500
+ Paint $3500

COLOUR PALETTE

RESENE RESENE
Karen Walker blackboard paint
‘Milk White’

RESENE
‘Ironside Grey’

IN CINEMAS 18 MAY

SEVILLE INTERNATIONAL PRESENT INASSOCIATIONWITHTHE NEW ZEALAND FILM COMMISSION,VENDETTA FILMS & SABINEPROGRAM
A FILM BY SLAVKO MARTINOV“PECKING ORDER”CINEMATOGRAPHY BY MIKE KELLAND ORIGINAL MUSIC BYTOM MCLEOD EDITED BY MIKE KELLAND
PRODUCED BY SLAVKO MARTINOV,MIKE KELLAND & DAVID BRECHIN-SMITH EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS JILL MACNAB,PHIL BREMNER & STEVE GILMORE DIRECTED BY SLAVKO MARTINOV

Gone
btoethae ch

The moment the Pilkington family opened the
front door of this coastal cottage, they knew
no major makeover was required to improve
on its perfect beach bach vibe

Text by Ady Shannon. Photography by Guy Frederick.
Styling by Alexandra Weston.

HOMES

MEET + GREET

Gael Pilkington 45 (full-time mother), Wade
Pilkington 48 (airline pilot), Georgia, 5, and Alexis, 4.

small wooden sign hanging Old wallpaper was
on the gate of the Pilkingtons’ removed in the lounge
holiday bach reads ‘Beware to reveal dark-stained
of the mouse’. When Gael board-and-batten
Pilkington and her husband, Wade, first spied panelling.
the house five years ago, the sign said ‘Beware
of the dog’. A tenant with a sense of humour yhg | 65
– and no dog – changed the wording and the
sign has been there ever since. This quirky
amendment is one of just a few small changes
made since the Pilkingtons took ownership, and
they’ve been careful to ensure each renovation
decision, like the sign, is in keeping with their
bach’s idiosyncratic character.
Wade, a keen surfer and kite-surfer, had
been coming to the small coastal settlement of
Waikuku, 30km north of Christchurch, for many
years before he and Gael decided to purchase
a holiday home there. Their daughter, Georgia,

The bach’s eclectic was just six months old when they found the
style is the product ideal bach and the plan was to rent the property
of Gael’s eye for out for a number of years before making it
a vintage treasure. their holiday bolthole. However, circumstances
All the furniture and changed when their second daughter, Alexis,
accessories have been was born and Gael realised she preferred her
gifted, scavenged or role as a full-time mum and decided not to
handed down by the return to work. “Renting the house out was
previous owners. a long-term goal, but after having Lexi we
thought we’d better start using it,” Gael says.
66 | yhg “Our tenants moved to Amberley and we’re still
great friends,” she adds.

Nowadays, from December until March, Gael
and Wade shut the door on their Christchurch
home and enjoy the relaxed beach lifestyle and
close proximity to park, surf and estuary offered
by their quirky little bach.

A bit of a jumble

It is difficult to tie the house to a particular
style or era but the overall effect is strangely
harmonious. A glass and aluminium front
door opens onto the lounge where huge,
wood-framed sliding windows with odd-sized
glass panes wrap around two sides of the
house. An old-fashioned fireplace in the dining
area has been painted in sparkly metallic paint,
while the lean-to kitchen at the rear of the home
features a hot-pink benchtop.

The panelling and flooring are similarly
disparate. A cosy mix of Turkish and woollen
rugs cover retro gold-and-cream linoleum,
which gives way to a colourful floral pattern on
the kitchen floor. Wade and Gael peeled off old
wallpaper in the lounge to reveal dark-stained
board-and-batten, which complements the
rimu-lined ceiling.

Gael, a self-confessed hoarder and gatherer
of all things vintage, has filled the bach with
an equally random assortment of objects and
furnishings, some of which were left behind

HOMES

Try displaying
vases or canisters
in multiples to make
a strong, symmetrical

statement.

yhg | 67

GET THE LOOK

Adirondack
chair, $147.98,
from Bunnings.

Hilo stool,
$49.95, from

Freedom.

Bag, $99, from
Republic Home.

The lean-to kitchen
has more than a slight
flavour of the 1970s
about it, with bold
orange-and-red floral
lino and a magenta
benchtop complemented
by retro crockery and
kitchen utensils.

68 | yhg

HOMES

by the previous owners. “We bought this place Retro style is very much
lock, stock and two smoking barrels,” says the order of the day at
Wade. “Gael has been putting her retro touch the Pilkington bach,
on it ever since.” which is decorated with
lots of colourful crochet,
Bunk beds in the girls’ room came from vintage fabrics and
Gael’s sister’s garage. Tupperware, Pyrex natural wood.
dishes and kitchenware were found in various
secondhand stores, while side tables, paintings, yhg | 69
chairs and couches came with the house. The
Salvation Army Store in Rangiora has also done
well out of Gael. “Wade is always worried about
what I am likely to come home with, but this
is where I get to enjoy my preference for old
things. Stuff has just found us, really,” says Gael.

Easy living

Gael’s father, a retired joiner, provided
invaluable help with opening up the interior
and improving the bach’s floor plan while
maintaining the integrity of the original
dwelling. “He has done an amazing job of
making things look like they have always been
there. Nothing is square and the angles are all
different and funny,” says Gael.

When it came to finding extra room for
accommodating friends and family, Gael and
Wade came up with a novel solution that was
perfectly in keeping with the spirit of their
bach – they purchased a caravan and had it
towed into the back garden, where it now acts
as a guest wing.

Wade has revamped the garden to ensure
it is low maintenance. Raised vegetable and

70 | yhg

HOMES

flower beds have been cleared and levelled to
create platforms for play equipment, and a roll
of recycled astroturf laid under the slide and
climbing frame to keep weeds down. Wade is
clearing the space under the deck to provide a
covered play area. “I don’t want to be a slave
to the garden,” he says. “At most, it takes
me 90 minutes to tidy it from disorderly to
sorted.” Wade has other activities in mind – the
basement has been fitted out with surf and
kiteboard racks, a workbench and a beer fridge.
It is the perfect man cave.

By taking a low-key approach to their bach
makeover and respecting its innate Kiwiana
character, the Pilkingtons have created an
idyllic summer retreat. During those golden
months, you’ll find a sign at the front door. It
reads: ‘Gone to the beach’. •

> Find the things you love from this home on page 140.

Ins bach renovation? Find more on

“We bought this place lock,
stock and two smoking
barrels. Gael has been
putting her retro touch
on it ever since”

yhg | 71

SHOP HONESTY BOX

THEIR STYLE + Best lessons learned? When buying, follow your
first instincts. If you love it, buy it and pay what they
The Pilkingtons used vintage finds, bright ask. As for decorating, an old house requires twice
colours and retro patterns to restore and the time. Also, nothing is square – you have to trust
your eye when hanging things.
enhance the character of their bach + What would you never do again? Install
Pink Batts in a roof space on a 32°C day without
Kids’ cane Deer antlers, enough skin protection.
chair, $10, $180, from + Any DIY disasters? The very last nail went
from Junk Antiques of through some wiring and shorted the kitchen.
& Disorderly. Epsom. The electrician who was called in discovered
a lot of deficiencies and a total rewire was needed.
Wooden shoe last, An expensive day but a safer result.
$25, from Junk + Most memorable experience in the bach?
& Disorderly. All the family Christmases and holiday gatherings.
+ What would you change if you could? Restoring
the painted-over sliding wooden windows to their
former glory is on our wishlist.

CONTACTS

+ Shops Twine Antiques & Collectables,
1473 Main North Road, Waikuku.
The ‘A’ Rooms in Rangiora, secondhand.kiwi.nz.

COLOUR PALETTE

RESENE
‘Forest Green’

Pascale
cushion,
$74.95, from
Freedom.

RESENE
‘Half Sisal’

FINISHES Products compiled by Lauren Freeman. Photography by Bauer Media Group Studio.

‘Fez’ fabric, $46 per metre, from Martha’s Fabrics. 1

Dining table, $380, from 2
Junk & Disorderly.
3
Modern
dining chair, 1 Wood panelling is original. Old wallpaper was
removed to reveal the dark-stained panels.
$435, from 2 Kitchen lino was there when they bought the bach.
May Time. 3 Exterior cladding was painted in Resene ‘Forest
Green’ to match the house’s original colour.
FOR STOCKISTS TURN TO PAGE 141.

72 | yhg

FLOOR PLAN BUDGET

7 2 3 Wade: We have spent almost $15,000 so far and still
1 8 want to have the front deck re-piled, the cream lino
KEY 4 replaced and the wooden windows restored.
1 Patio 5 + Bunk room $2600
2 Kitchen + Bedroom $500
3 Bathroom + Living and dining rooms $2000
4 Bedroom + Kitchen $900
5 Dining + Bathroom $800
6 Lounge + Exterior $2500
7 Deck + Gas hot-water cylinder $2700
8 Fireplace + Rewiring $2200

6 YOU CAN
4 DO THIS…

7 Create a fun garland with
sticky spots and string.
Using double-sided tape,
simply stick two circles of
coloured paper together
with a length of string in
between and continue all
the way along. This would
make a colourful addition
to a party or kid’s bedroom.
You can customise the
colour palette to suit.

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all starts with good insulation and an efficient provide another level of warmth and comfort. Stick
home heating solution. Generation Homes Chief Heat pumps are an efficient way to regulate to neutral and earthy tones with darker accessories
Executive Kevin Atkinson says it’s vital for new temperatures in new homes. High wall heat and pops of white or cream to make family spaces
homeowners to think about how they’ll use every pumps are standard in Generation Homes’ feel cosy and inviting. Well-fitted windows dressed
interior and exterior space to create a property properties, but buyers can upgrade to ducted or with thermal-lined curtains are another great way
that meets their needs now and in the future. multi-split pumps to heat more than one room at a to retain warmth in a home’s central living areas.
“For some homeowners this means installing time. Ventilation systems are another customised
more insulation to create a warmer, quieter home, upgrade. The system pumps fresh filtered air into Generation Homes is an award-winning national
while others want to explore outdoor heating a home to keep internal spaces dry and reduce top 10 residential builder that provides afordable
and lighting options to extend the functionality mould, damp and condensation. Gas fires and log houses to Kiwis without compromising on design.
of alfresco areas. Extra storage for sporting burners are popular with families that love the look All homes are sold with a fixed-fee contract, on-
equipment, interior styling and landscaping all and feel of a traditional fire. time delivery guarantee and 10-year Master Build
play a part in creating a functional and liveable warranty. For more information and professional
home all year round.” LIFESTYLE advice, go to: generationhomes.co.nz.

INSULATION If you love alfresco entertaining, investing in a
fireplace, fire pit or an infrared heater is a must.
Insulation is an important consideration because Adding a shelter or canopy over an outdoor
of its ability to retain heat in the winter and area will help capture heat so you can swap the
regulate a property’s temperature in the summer. bubbly for some mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Research shows that good insulation can cut the Strategically placed lights, lanterns or fairy lights,
cost of heating and cooling a home by 40 percent, will help fashion a beautiful, ambient setting. Be
making it the most practical way to make a sure to plant winter bloomers such as hellebores,
property more energy efficient. Generation Homes camellias and violas so that your garden has some
uses Pink® Batts® insulation to build warmer, drier new colour throughout winter. Inside a home,
and quieter homes. It can be installed in the roof, think about including custom-made storage areas
ceiling, walls and floors depending on the level of to house skis, snowboards, umbrellas and other
winter items such as boots and jackets.



76 | yhg

RENO

THE LONG
WAY HOME

Rescued from neglect on a Taranaki farm, this 1920s bungalow was transported to
New Plymouth and transformed into a beloved family homestead

Text by Annick Larkin. Photography by Jane Dove Juneau.

PROBLEM SOLUTION

Initially, the relocated house had no garage or storage. › An extension delivered a double garage, a front entrance, ofice/spare
room, bedroom, bathroom and laundry, all equipped with storage.
The elevated location exposed the house to the wind.
› Before renovating, the family established a garden and planted
The tiny kitchen had been untouched since 1928 and was a good wind-blocking hedge.
separated from the living area.
› Major renovations included a new open-plan kitchen positioned at
the heart of the family living areas.

yhg | 77

MEET + GREET

Phil Gard, 49 (project manager), Shelley Gard, 49
(sales merchandiser and student), Chelsea, 18 (design
student), Jordan, 15, and Joshua, 11, plus puss Molly.

1|AN IDEAL LIFESTYLE
Phil and Shelley Gard’s lifestyle block
on the outskirts of New Plymouth is
home to two very fat cows (“They are wider
than they are tall,” says Shelley) and five chooks,
as well as a lush vegetable patch and orchard
of plums, pears, apples, lemons, passionfruit,
grapes, figs, cherries, oranges and mandarins,
and a top lawn that doubles as a well-used
cricket pitch. “We have lived on this property
for just under 14 years,” explains Shelley. “It’s
20 minutes to Mount Taranaki and 10 minutes
to the sea. It’s a wonderful lifestyle.”

Walking around the homestead, you’d never
know it hadn’t always been there. But just over
a decade ago this land was just grass.

78 | yhg

Above the table hangs RENO
the ‘eel net’, a cane shade
salvaged by Phil and 3|THE HOUSE… was dilapidated.
Shelley from their first The carpet was rotten in places and
house in Auckland. “We’ve the lino was peeling and mouldy. Rats
had many memorable had moved in and made nests in the hot water
meals under the ‘hīnaki’,” cupboard, and a forest of moss was growing in
says Shelley. the bathroom and kitchen. The plastic bathtub
was yellow, the carpet was blue and the hallway
was pink. The windows were all draughty with
numerous rotten sills and several broken panes.
Shelley’s favourite feature was the pink toilet
attached to the old washhouse. “The walls
didn’t connect to the floors so, when breezy, the
toilet paper would take flight,” she recalls.

When the house first arrived, they had to
use a window for access because the front door
opened onto nothing – all the concrete sections
of floor had been left behind in Normanby.

2|BACKGROUND The couple
bought the 12-acre (just under five
hectares), north-facing property back
in 2002. Due to a preference for character homes
over new builds, the Gards started hunting for
a heritage home to place on the site. A 1920s
bungalow on a rural property in Normanby was
just the ticket. “We fell in love with the house for
its original oak features, intricate ceilings and
general layout,” explains Shelley. “We could see
its potential even though it was run-down.”

The exterior was also a drawcard as it was
different from other bungalows of the era. “The
transitional features have an oriental influence
with an art deco nod,” says Shelley. They bought
the house for $12,000 and had it relocated 65km
to their New Plymouth site, which had been
laboriously flattened with a bulldozer by Shelley’s
father, Keith. Their “grand old lady” finally arrived
in three pieces, in the middle of the night.

yhg | 79

4|GETTING STUCK IN
The couple and extended family
wasted no time in laying flooring and
mending some of the ruined parts of the house
to make it habitable, comfortable and warm.
However, it would be a further five years before
Phil and Shelley could embark on a major two-
year renovation, while continuing to live in the
house with their three children.

When the time finally came, the couple
didn’t hesitate to enlist the help of brother-in-
law Fraser McNaught from Native Architecture
in Auckland. “His vision was masterful – he
seamlessly added a new section to the house
while retaining the original essence of the
bungalow,” explains Shelley. And the final
result? Visitors often express disbelief that the
house was relocated at all, so well does this
recent arrival blend into its adopted landscape.

FLOOR PLAN 3 4
3
2
1

5

KEY 11 6
97
1 Master bedroom 10 8
2 Main bathroom
3 Bedroom 12
4 Bathroom
5 Garage
6 Ofice/guest room
7 Entry
8 Dining
9 Kitchen
10 Lounge
11 TV den/library
12 Deck

80 | yhg

5|THE RENO Under Fraser’s RENO
guidance, the couple altered the
bungalow’s layout slightly by The Gards have stuck
reconfiguring a bedroom into a television to a neutral palette in
den, which connects to a large deck. Fraser’s the kids’ rooms, which
plans also saw the kitchen moved from the gives them the freedom
rear of the old house to sit centrally, with the to add their own colours
former kitchen space transformed into a dining and accessories.
room. A brand-new extension includes older
son Jordan’s bedroom, an office-come-guest yhg | 81
bedroom, a bathroom and an internal garage.

To keep the budget in check, all the
original joinery and windows were reused or
repositioned (and the new joinery was chosen
to match the style of the bungalow). The old
floor coverings were lifted and the wooden
floorboards sanded and finished with semi-gloss
polyurethane. Floorboards were needed for the
new extension and Phil and Shelley were lucky
enough to purchase a house-lot of rimu boards
that matched their existing ones.

Almost every wall and ceiling – aside from
the beautiful ornate ceilings in the lounge and
hallway – was replaced with new plasterboard
and insulated. Capacity for an upstairs extension
was also provided for as the couple plan to
add another storey that will one day house the
master bedroom, ensuite and office. “The views
from our rooftop are stunning,” says Shelley.

o Where have you saved money?

BUDGET CONTACTS • Shelley: We were lucky to have wonderful
friends who generously gave up their time to
> Total renovation cost: approx $250,000 > Native Architecture help us paint the interior, which was days and
nativearchitecture.co.nz, days of hard work. Family helped us initially
PAINT SHOP [email protected], when we moved in; the house was very raw and
(09) 816 8958 in need of a thorough clean – both mums were
Interior paint colours: > Sugarbush Vintage Planters fantastic at helping us with this job.
> Walls Resene ‘Half Thorndon Cream’ and [email protected] • Phil, who used to be an electrician, spent hours
Resene ‘Quarter Thorndon Cream’ > Belinda Foreman Interior Designer rewiring, saving us hundreds.
> Skirtings and ceilings Resene ‘Alabaster’ [email protected] • My job has been to paint the exterior, which
> Feature walls Resene ‘Woodburn’ > Elite Kitchens, New Plymouth was hard labour as the old weatherboards had
> Bedroom Resene ‘Lemon Grass’ elitekitchens.net layers and layers of paint that needed stripping.
> Wallpaper in master bedroom Sanderson > Blindz Direct Even though this has been time-consuming, it
Parchment Flowers ‘Frampton’ blindzdirect.co.nz has saved us money.
> Michael Wimsett Plumbing • Family friends who were renovating at the
Exterior paint colours: 027 450 4323 same time gave us their wooden windows.
> Walls Guthrie Bowron ‘Gards Green’ > Resene ColorShop, New Plymouth • A close and talented friend gave up her
– a tint made especially for the family resene.co.nz valuable time as an interior designer (see
> Window surrounds ‘Eighth Gards Green’ contact list, left) to help us tweak our vision.
• We also picked up some wonderful antique
The Gards love the furniture from Trade Me. Our 1930s armchairs
ofset brickwork in in the lounge cost 75 cents each.
their entranceway, • Our builder, Dave, was very reasonably priced.
which is enhanced at He became part of the family.
night when the light • Chelsea, our eldest child, has produced some
catches on its edges wonderful pieces of art and photography.
and corners.
Any splurges?
Bedroom wallpaper
The kitchen by Elite Kitchens in New Plymouth
Entrance brickwork was a good-quality investment. Located in the
centre of the house, it has sustained us through
Rimu flooring many years of robust family living.
TIMELINE
What was your best buy?

When Phil was renovating an old gentlemen’s
club, he brought home a rather large wooden
fire surround. I retained the cigarette marks on
the mantel, where the men would have stood,
talking over a pint, many years ago.

Best memory in your home?

Tearing down the borer-ridden cupboard in
the old kitchen, as it was the first sign that we
were starting our renovation five years after we
moved in. A very happy time for us.

What would you never do again?

Relocate and renovate a home with three young
children, all living in one room!

Best lesson learned?

Midway through our renovation we had a
lot of open walls covered in tarpaulin. One
windy night, the tarpaulin was particularly
noisy. By this time the whole family had had
enough of living in a dusty building site, so
halfway through the night we decided to jump

2002 2003 2008 2010

Bought the land. Relocated the bungalow onto the site. Started renovation. Finished renovation.

82 | yhg

RENO

in the car and go to a nice hotel. They were Shelley’s tips for
so accommodating – I think they could see renovating and
we were a family on the brink! That night felt decorating
so luxurious, with long hot baths, separate
bedrooms and a glass of wine. After that one 1 Trust your instincts, never
night, we went home happy and finished the waver from your vision,
house. The lesson we learned was to remove but also take advice from a
ourselves from the situation and re-energise. trusted designer. Their
expertise is invaluable.
Also, don’t agonise over wall colours
too much; your first choice is usually right. 2 Our bungalow has
history and we wanted
And never cure your own hide! I have to honour that by keeping
a cowhide on the floor that I laboured over her integrity intact. We
for months and months, providing much used fittings from the era
amusement for my family along the way. Unlike whenever we could, but have
other hides, mine has ridges and valleys and introduced many modern
crunches as you walk on it. I have even tripped touches, too. We’ve balanced
on the edges. Determined to prove my family the strong masculine lines of
wrong, the hide is still on the hallway floor, and the house with lighter
has even flattened a little over time. • feminine elements such as
plants, ornaments and light,
> Find the things you love from this home on page 140. modern pieces.

See more old homes that have been lovingly renewed at 3 Have fun and tell your
story. Your choices
reflect who you are.

yhg | 83

AFTER

WORKSHOP BEFORE

Warming your
house for winter

How do you make the most of the light during the cooler
months while keeping your home cosy and warm?

It all started with a sleepout/garage/office 60mm blades), which were very much in over the winter. The existing Venetians worked ADV2017 CS23741 06/17
being built at the top of the driveway… keeping with the trends at the time the house from a practical point of view, as they gave
With a growing business and the need for was built in the mid 1990s. control over the sun’s glare in the afternoon, but
more space, Andrew and Tanya Wood had they were desperately in need of modernising.
upsized to a spacious home on Auckland’s However, Tanya and Andrew’s immediate The dark stain used on the louvres made the
fringes and were busy adding a smaller stand- need was to choose window treatments for the rooms feel small and, given that the blinds
alone office-come-accomodation block. new sleepout/garage/office being built at the covered large floor-to-ceiling expanses, they
Like so many properties outside the heart of top of their driveway. This new build was taking also made the spaces feel very busy. Due to the
the city, the first thing you notice is the space. shape, and because it was designed to look like size of the windows, curtains would not have
The grounds give the feeling of tranquillity and a smaller version of the main house, the couple been a good option: they would have closed the
separation from the stresses of a busy workday. were keen for it to be furnished in a similar style. rooms in, there was no space for them to gather,
It’s the kind of place where you can arrive and and they would have been very heavy to move.
heave a sigh of relief – you’re home. Initially, Brightshine was only going to fit the
On entering the house, it’s impossible not to sleepout but the more we discussed it, the more THE BRIGHTSHINE
notice the wonderful floor-to-ceiling windows. Tanya and Andrew fell in love with the concept SOLUTION
As you look out at the views, it’s clear this of shutters throughout both dwellings. Both
house encapsulates the notion of bringing the practical and stylistic considerations had to be Shutters were the answer: beautiful, thick
outside in. This makes the most of the light but taken into account when coming up with 89mm louvres to adorn the house’s windows,
can also make the house feel cold. a design solution that would suit both the modernise the look and provide some much-
The Woods bought their home with its home’s super-sized windows and the more needed insulation around the house.
existing blinds: stained cedar Venetians (with modest proportions of the sleepout.
At Brightshine, we offer shutters in a choice
Without double glazing on the main home’s of 64mm, 76mm and 89mm louvres. The bigger
windows, there was a real need to retain heat

ADVERTISING PROMOTION

HAYLEY THOMPSON
Owner, Brightshine Blinds

BEFORE

AFTER

the louvre, the more you can see through into At Brightshine we like to give our customers Shutters vs
your garden or outdoor space, and the more the benefit of a thorough consultation, taking curtains
control you have. into account everything from practical
application to future renovations. It’s important > With floor-to-ceiling windows
All shutters with a drop of more than 1800mm that we get the little details right so you get (and so many of them!), shutters
come with a midrail, which we match up to the the best look for your home. At Brightshine we were the ideal option for this
natural splits in the windows (mullions). For get an enormous amount of satisfaction out of home. Curtains would have had
Tanya and Andrew, this gives them even more delivering our customers a transformed home. nowhere to gather and, with such
control over the light as they’re able to rotate the large windows, there would have
top louvres independently of the bottom ones. Auckland, Tauranga and Wellington been a lot of material, making
FREEPHONE: 0800 483 638 them very heavy to manage.
The colour of the shutters was discussed brightshine.co.nz
at length. Given they weren’t painting the BEFORE
main house at this stage, the couple wanted
the colour to be neutral enough to work with AFTER
the exterior paint colour and still give them
the flexibility to have a selection of colours to
choose from when they painted the interior.

Tanya and Andrew finally settled on ‘Cameo’.
A more grey-based beige than the exterior hue,
its slightly grey tones mean it would go with
colours they both liked, such as Resene ‘Truffle’,
‘Thorndon Cream’, ‘Concrete’ and ‘Napa’.

Shutters are practical in so many spaces but
over doors they tend to be a little cumbersome
and require clearance to manoeuvre if bifolded.
With these factors in mind, we opted to install
roller blinds over the ranch sliders, choosing
a beautiful, textured and earthy fabric which
would integrate beautifully with the shutters.

Harmonising perfectly with the minimalist
look created with the shutters, the blockout
blinds are an ideal solution, enabling easy
access to the door and offering great insulating
properties thanks to the flocked backing.

After careful measuring and with a few final
tweaks, such as using 35mm shutter stiles
instead of the more chunky 51mm around the
edges of the shutter panel (to maximise louvre
width), we were ready to go.

Eight weeks later, the result was a complete
transformation that ticked all the boxes. Stylish
and contemporary yet classical and practical, too.

HOME HEATING C hoosing a heating type might
be one of the most important
Hot decisions you make for your
stuff home. Not only could you end
up saving money upfront and in
It’s official – donning an extra jumper while the wind whistles the future, the right type of heater can make your
under the door is no longer the Kiwi way. Check out our handy family healthier and improve your quality of life.
beginner’s guide to modern heating for today’s families
There are a lot of variables involved with
Text by Sally Conor. finding the best heating for your place –
including climate, housing type and your
budget – so it pays to do your research. We’ve
rounded up some of the main pros and cons to
get you started. But first…

INSULATION

Effective home heating starts and ends with
insulation. A little money spent on insulation now
will save you thousands on bills in the years to
come and will create a healthier environment for
you and your family.

Check the required R values (the resistance
of a material or building structure to transferring
heat) for your climate zone and, if you can afford
it, insulate above these minimum requirements.
Installing double-glazed windows and cosy
carpets will maximise the health and efficiency
of your home even further.

86 | yhg

RENO

Brooklyn bioethanol fireplace, in bronze and
black, $5000 or under, from Living Flame.

Akaroa radiant
woodburner,

$2999, from
Masport.

Flickering flames provide a wonderfully cosy atmosphere. Today’s fires come in
a vast range of styles and burn a variety of fuels, including wood, gas and biofuel.

Photography by Shannia Shegedyn and Martina Gemmola/bauersyndication.com.au. PROS + Very eficient + Cosy and atmospheric THE LOOK TIPS FIREPLACES

+ Woodburners are cheap to run and can heat a large If you’ve got an existing fireplace, you can > If you have an open
area + Biofuel fires burn clean, don’t need a chimney research the era of your home and restore its fireplace, installing an
and use a green energy source + Gas and biofuel original character, but make sure you have a enclosed fire will make it
fireplaces fit a number of spaces + Gas is easy to professional check it over for safety. Or you can safer and more eficient.
turn on and of and provides instant heat start from scratch with a modern freestanding > If your home isn’t open
fire in the most convenient spot for your family. plan, a heat-transfer system
CONS + Woodburners can’t be turned on and of will help to move warm air
ENERGY EFFICIENCY around the whole house.
and surfaces can get hot + Wood needs to be stored > In a wood-burning fire,
and smoke contributes to air pollution + Woodburners Burning wood is carbon-neutral because it’s only burn dry wood that’s
may need building consent + Gas price may fluctuate; renewable, but burning it cleanly is the key to been seasoned for at least
non-renewable resource + Gas usually heats only one making it environmentally friendly. Ensure you a year to enjoy clean heat.
room + Biofuel fires are not a primary heating source ask your installer about the best way to run your
fire cleanly and efficiently. Pyro mini
THE PURCHASE woodburner,
R1500WS
Carefully calculate the heat output your home freestanding radiant $2899, from
needs and do lots of research. For a woodburner, Pyroclassic.
you’ll need to find out if you’re in a clean air woodburner,
zone or not and check emissions requirements $1699, from
for your area; consult your local council for help. Masport.

THE INSTALLATION

Location is everything for your fire but there
are also options out there for all types of homes.
Get a range of advice and check that your
chosen fireplace installer has New Zealand
Home Heating Association certification.

THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY

Many fireplaces can also heat your hot water or
even boil the kettle. There are some innovative
new looks – Pyroclassic fires come in over 200
colours, and Living Flame’s biofuel fires can be
installed anywhere, with no need for a chimney.

yhg | 87

Panasonic E21 heat pump and air conditioner,
$2998, from Harvey Norman.

Mitsubishi Electric Designer Series 4.0W heat pump
and air conditioner, $2399, from Noel Leeming.

Mitsubishi Electric HyperCore FH Series heat pump
and air conditioner, $3799, from Noel Leeming.

Daikin Cora heat pump and air conditioner,
$3300, see daikin.co.nz for stockists.

HEAT PUMPS Currently a popular heating choice, heat pumps are best suited to larger rooms and living
areas that require a steady level of comfort over several hours. Heat pumps use electricity
to move and warm air, and are an energy-efficient heating option.

PROS + Produces a comfortable dry heat THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY TIPS

+ Lower heating costs + Can cool the air in hot > Wifi-controlled heat pumps can be turned > Vacuum the filter on your
weather + Purifies the air + Adds value to your home on and off using an app. indoor heat pump unit every
> Some systems use an outdoor unit to pump air three months and regularly
CONS + Can create cross-draughts + Loses to several rooms inside, or a central compressor check the outdoor unit to
that distributes hot air throughout the home. ensure it hasn’t become
eficiency the colder it gets + Can be bulky, > Air-to-water systems can also heat your water. blocked.
especially the external unit > Ground-source heat pumps use heat from the > Don’t programme your
earth rather than from the air. heat pump to a high
THE PURCHASE temperature in an efort to
THE LOOK warm a room more quickly.
When shopping for a heat pump, it’s most Set the temperature you
important to choose one that’s the right size Floor-mounted heat pumps can heat a space want (around 21-23°C is
and capacity for your space. Many installers faster but take up more room and are harder to best) and let the technology
offer online calculators, so grab a tape measure ignore. Wall units are more discreet but slightly do its job.
and get an idea of what you’re in the market less efficient. Ducted heat pumps are the most
for. However, unless you’re a confident home discreet of all. Manufacturers are starting to
handyperson, you’ll still need a professional to release more options in terms of colour and
advise you before the final installation. finish.

THE INSTALLATION ENERGY EFFICIENCY

When getting quotes from installers, make sure A heat pump must be well suited to your space,
you ask questions and understand the whole type of home and climate to run efficiently.
process. Ask for quotes with itemised costs and If you make the right choice, your heat pump
a clear installation plan in layperson’s language. will run very efficiently and you’ll see the
Ensure your installer follows EECA’s good difference on your power bill, especially if
practice guide and is accredited for the heat your home is well insulated.
pumps they install. Make sure you understand
the visual impact of your choice inside and out.

88 | yhg

RENO

Moretti 2000W retro TIPS
fan heater, $69,
from Bunnings. > Bedrooms require less
heating than the rest of the
Goldair house as the recommended
retro oil temperature for healthy
column sleep is around 18°C.
heater, > Panel heaters are good for
$129, from kids’ rooms as they can be
Mitre 10. wall-mounted. Oil-filled
column heaters are great for
the grown-ups. Look for one
with a thermostat.
> A tilt switch is a useful
safety feature: it will turn of
the heater if it tips over.

DeLonghi HCX3220FTS
slimline convector heater,

$379.99, from Briscoes.

Dyson AM09
Hot+Cool

fan heater,
$799, from Noel

Leeming.

Goldair panel heater FREESTANDING HEATERS
with wifi, $199, from

Mitre 10.

Portable heaters are best for when you need a short blast of warm air in a specific area.

Photography by Prue Ruscoe/bauersyndication.com.au. PROS + Heats a space quickly + No consent THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY Moretti
2200W
or tricky installation required + Cheap to buy Oscillating tower heaters – such as Dyson’s micathermic
Hot+Cool range – are quiet, efficient and look fan heater,
CONS + Expensive to run for long periods like something from outer space. Goldair makes $117, from
a sleek range of wifi-enabled heaters. Bunnings.
+ Can be hot to touch and risky for small children
THE LOOK yhg | 89
THE PURCHASE
There are endless options available to suit the
There are so many options out there for decor of your home, but working out where
freestanding heaters, it can be hard to know you’re going to keep your heater will help you
what to look for. To help you get value for narrow down the options in terms of size and
money, look for these three things: a thermostat shape. While you’re at it, check if your chosen
(to maintain an even temperature), a timer model has cord storage so you can keep it
(so you can set your heater to warm up the tucked away when not in use.
kitchen before you get up) and a fan (helps to
warm a room faster and distribute the air more ENERGY EFFICIENCY
evenly). Even ticking just one of these boxes
will mean extra efficiency and convenience. Freestanding heaters range from very energy
efficient (oil column heaters) to very inefficient
THE INSTALLATION (cheap fan heaters). Ask your retailer for advice.

Easy to install; most simply require a socket!

DeLonghi
Multicolonna
radiator (water-
heated), POA, from
centralheating.co.nz.

Daikin Nexura heat Goldair 425W
pump (wall-mounted panel heater
close to floor), POA,
see daikin.co.nz for with timer,
$159.99, from
stockists. Noel Leeming.

Choose from sleek electric wall panels or a 5
WALL RADIATORScentral water, air or gas transfer system to heat
your entire home by way of discreet radiators. 4
Photography by Armelle Habib/bauersyndication.com.au.3
PROS + Easy to run + Heats the whole house
2 CARPET
+ Discreet and stylish designs + Healthy and safe 1
+ Can add to your home’s value + Easy to control Not only beautiful, carpet can add yet another
layer of insulation to your home. A good-quality
CONS + Water transfer central heating systems carpet will keep in the heat generated by your
heating sources, saving you money. It also beats
(water-heated radiators) are more eficient than air icy tiles underfoot on a cold morning!
transfer systems, but are more expensive to install
+ Water transfer requires a new hot water system Carpet is ideal for living spaces where
comfort on the floor is important, such as
THE PURCHASE children’s play areas, bedrooms and lounges.
Carpet is also a great sound insulator. When
Before choosing a system you’ll need to choosing a carpet, ask your carpet consultant
research which one is right for you. Consider about stain-, fade- and wear-resistance.
your family’s needs, house size, cost,
installation, availability of fuel to keep it running 1 Westminster in ‘Fennel’, $83 per square metre (psm), from Flooring Xtra.
(eg gas, electricity, etc) and design. If you can 2 Cavalier Bremworth Five Star Concierge, $309 psm, from Carpet Court.
afford it, a long-term solution is best, so consult 3 Cavalier Bremworth Natural Formations in ‘The Pinnacles’, $249 psm,
an expert about the right choice for your home. from Carpet Court. 4 Kowhai Tree in ‘Atomic’, $35 psm, from Flooring Xtra.
5 Himalayas in ‘Austen’, $447.35 per lineal metre, from Artisan Collective.
THE INSTALLATION

Radiator installation for central heating requires
new pipework throughout your home. Houses
with generous underfloor space – especially
older houses – are best suited to retrofitting
radiator heating due to the greater ease of
installation. Electric panels are simply mounted
onto the wall and plugged into a power socket.

THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY

The next generation of central heating systems
will be controlled from your smartphone and will
intuitively sense which areas to warm up and
when. Smart home technology is on its way!

THE LOOK

Radiators are extremely sleek and chic these
days but many models can also be painted
to blend in with your wall colour.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Choosing a system that is correctly sized to
your home is essential for efficiency and value
for money so make sure you consult a qualified
specialist and get a few quotes before you
make a decision.

90 | yhg









Photography by Todd Eyre. MakeYOURover

Design, colour and styling advice for simple and afordable transformations

Sorted in style

Open shelves become so much more appealing
when stocked with colourful accessories,
orderly rows of spice jars (or bottles, in this
case) and a touch of greenery. Jen Hayes added
storage options such as these to her Grey Lynn
apartment, and made the home more cosy and
liveable. She overhauled it in just six months –
read about the process on page 102.

Winter interior workshop Page 96 Then & now: a revamped apartment Page 102 Ask Alex Page 106
Room reveal: depths of winter Page 108 Project: no-sew cushions Page 110 Finders Fi Page 112

yhg | 95

WORKSHOP

c ange

ds and cris
it’s time to insulate your bedroom and living
areas with warm, snuggly textures

Text by Vanessa Nouwens.

96 | yhg

MAKEOVER

Lagoon Flannelette sheet set
washed velvet in charcoal, $59.99
square-stitch single, from EziBuy.
throw, $179,

from Crave.

Hampton linen bed pack in indigo, Nicolo cushion, VANESSA NOUWENS
$299.99 queen, from EziBuy. $74.95, from Interior designer/stylist
Freedom.
hether we are ready for it or not,
Photography by Chris Warnes/bauersyndication.com.au. winter is almost here and now is
the ideal time to freshen up your
interiors to see you through the
cold nights ahead. Texture is key when it comes
to creating a warm and inviting space so we’ve
gathered together a host of hints and tips to help
you get your home winter-ready in no time.

B E D R O O M S A bedroom should

feel inviting and cosy in winter, and one of the
easiest ways to achieve this is by changing up
your bedding.

1SHEETS & PILLOWCASES
Strip your bed of crisp cotton sheets and
replace them with heavier, winter-weight
fabrics. Flannelette sheets will keep you
toasty at night and will also be warmer against
your skin when you jump into bed. From plain
colours to fun patterns, the range available in
flannelette is massive, which means there is a set
out there to suit any decor style.

If you love to read in bed and don’t yet have
any euro pillows, add them to your must-buy list.
We guarantee these big, square pillows will make
sitting up in bed easier and more enjoyable. For
extra comfort, introduce some new pillowcases
in soft fabrics such as velvet or corduroy.

Klippan Ralph blanket in
navy, $225, from Tea Pea.

Montana cushions, $48.99 Nomad throw, THROWS & CUSHIONS
each, from Adairs. $99.90, from
To make your bed a cosy and relaxing
Wallace Cotton. place to be, layer it with chunky knit
throws or blankets. Add interest with
ones that have tassels, pom poms or fringing.
Extra cushions won’t go amiss either and are
a great way to add texture to your bed.

yhg | 97

Home Republic
alpine fur

throw, $199.99,
from Adairs.

Velvet eyelet
curtain,

$89.99, from
EziBuy.

Chico
cushion,
$49.95, from
Freedom.

L I V I N G R O O M During winter, Nava pouf Kip & Co Maree
in smoke, $99.99, velvet cushion,
the amount of time you and your family spend cushion, $99, $64.90, from
snuggled up in the living room is bound to from EziBuy. from Tea Pea. Country Road.
increase, so why not introduce some new
pieces to give your space a refreshed look? Highland DRESS YOUR SEATING
throw,
C U S H I O N S New cushions are $139.90, from Regardless of the style of your armchair,
Wallace Cotton. whether it be a fabric or rattan style,
a cost-effective way to alter the colour dressing it with a chunky throw or fur
scheme or style of your living room. Sherpa blanket will instantly add warmth and texture.
Pack away those lightweight ones cushion, Sheepskins draped over the backs or seats of
and grab some cushions covered in wool, fur or $139.90, chairs are a popular look and add extra comfort.
velvet – fabrics with a soft, warm feel. Cushions from Wallace And remember to give your sofa some love, too!
with pom poms, tassels or fringing are great Cotton.
for giving your sofa some texture as well. To L I G H T I N G These shorter days are the
keep costs down, consider buying new cushion
covers and reusing your old inners. obvious time to add layered lighting to
your home. Whether you love snuggling
C U RTA I N U P DAT E If your under a blanket on the sofa to watch
your favourite television shows, or prefer curling
curtains have seen better days and up with a book in a reading chair, the addition of
changing them is on your to-do a floor or table lamp is a boon. A directional floor
list, consider adding a touch of lamp can be moved to shine down on your book,
luxury to your living room with a set in velvet. while a table lamp will provide ambience and
This sturdy fabric is a great option for soft illumination without having all the lights blazing
furnishings and will serve you well for years to – perfect for movie nights.
come. Velvet always looks great and works with
a range of interior styles. Most of the heat loss
in a home is through windows and, especially
in older homes, a heavy material like this will
help to retain that precious warm air.

inter decorating ideas at

98 | yhg

MAKEOVER

CA N D L E S Add a gentle glow to Tartan and A S P OT O F PA I N T With moody
spice candle,
your living space with a scented $49.95, from rooms very on-trend at the moment,
candle or two. Candles emit a warm, Ashley & Co. why not give your bedroom or lounge a
soft light which is great for creating fresh look by painting it in a dark hue
a relaxed, calming mood. To achieve maximum Elli candle, such as charcoal, black, navy or dark green?
glow, place candles next to mirrors. A candle in $19.95, from You may even find that if you apply these
a glass holder will also be brighter as the light Cotton On colours in your bedroom, relaxing your mind
will be refracted. Similarly, candles will offer before sleep becomes a little easier.
more light against a white wall. Another way Home.
to boost a candle’s light power is to choose one RESENE
with multiple wicks. ‘Nero’

RESENE RESENE
‘Nocturnal’ ‘Dark Side’

ACCESSORIES Another tried-

and-true way to add texture to your
living room or bedroom is through
decorative objects such as baskets,
wooden decor items, picture frames and
candle holders – these will bring instant
warmth and interest to a space. Also, consider
the addition of an oil diffuser in a lovely wintry
scent such as spruce or cinnamon.
For bedrooms, have you discovered the
magical effect of indoor plants? If not, introduce
a little bit of lush greenery and marvel at
the sudden injection of freshness and life it
provides. And if you have a wooden floor, a rug
placed under the bed means your feet always
land on a soft texture first thing in the morning
– it’s a treat that never gets old!

Ecoya YH&G Kladivo round tray,
strawberry $69.99, from Farmers.
& blackberry
leaf diffuser, Glazed storage
$29.95, from container, $6,
Freedom.
from Kmart.

Seagrass baskets,
$49.90 and $59.90,

from Crave.

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