Custom storage shapes homes for easy living
Growing into a home often means possessions simply swell to fill all available corners. In some cases it is a haphazard accumulation of clutter and at other times the result of carefully introducing shelving and other storage so that a home’s character shines through in an orderly, attractive way.
Anyone not wanting to spend years gradually discovering the perfect fit for personal effects and household items, though, can find a welcome shortcut with a professional storage designer.
Christchurch Wardrobes and Storage has filled that role for the past 10 years with custom designs that are transforming how Cantabrians manage their homes.
Using computer-aided design tools and precision machinery to cut hefty panels of smooth, melaminecoated board, the company is the creative force behind many of postearthquake Christchurch’s most ambitious and attractive storage renovations.
From large, walk-in wardrobes and full-length bookcases to bespoke garage shelving and raised laundry cupboards, the focus is on accessibility and a seamless fit with surrounding decor.
Tidying at once becomes easy and the flow of a home is enhanced to its potential.
Christchurch Wardrobes and Shelving lead designer Raewyn Evans says customer consultations are an important part of the process.
Designs can be created digitally, emailed out to clients and tweaked as need be. Colour options are almost limitless.
‘‘Because I’ve been doing this so long, I can get a feel for what people want,’’ says Evans, who runs the business with her husband, Quentin.
‘‘We can go as customised as they’d like. We’re a local, familyowned company and everything is made here, which gives us control over the quality right through to installation,’’ she says.
‘‘A lot of people order things online but they don’t always get what they want.’’
Christchurch Wardrobes and Shelving uses thick, New Zealandmade melamine panels and Germanengineered componentry, having taken a lesson from the region’s seismic history to ensure products are built to last.
Shelves can be moved later if necessary, either by Christchurch Wardrobes and Shelving or the homeowner.
That flexibility is an important part of a child’s wardrobe, as it future-proofs the setup for changing needs, Evans says.
‘‘We might put more shelves in for a younger child and then when they’re older more hanging space could be used. We always think about how the children will be using it and make sure it’s easy to adapt in the future.’’
Evans says people planning or in the early phases of a new-build should consider their storage as soon as possible, because it is not uncommon for the builder’s standard storage options to have to be replaced with something better suited to the end user.
By getting it right with customised storage in the first place, homeowners can also include the cost of after-market designs in a mortgage, saving the inconvenience of having to raise the money separately.
Free quotes are available from Christchurch Wardrobes and Shelving, with consultations able to be held at the client’s home or the company’s office in Wigram.
❚ To find out more, phone Christchurch Wardrobes and Shelving on 03 338 2401 or visit christchurchwardrobes.co.nz. Inquiries will be followed up when the business reopens from its Christmas break, on January 15.