SHOP THEIR STYLE
A backdrop of off-white and pale wood allowed this couple to go bold with brilliant blues of every shade
DEANNA’S TOP TIPS
+ Paint the pool a dark grey to give it a more natural effect.
+ Incorporate demolition wood into your new home (eg for doors and tables) and recycle weatherboards for the exterior.
+ Landscape as you go.
+ Be clear about your vision and ensure the design reflects that.
+ Don’t presume the architect and builder know all the costs. The renovation took longer and cost more than we expected. Luckily, our builder kept a monthly account of the budget and line items.
+ Built-in ply cabinetry means less money spent on furniture.
HONESTY BOX
+ What wouldn’t you do again? We will live here forever so we won’t be renovating again.
+ Any DIY disasters? Not one!
+ One thing you would change? We may have recessed the LED light strips into the ceiling.
+ Which areas did you save or splurge on? We saved on Uashmama paper lampshades, which look stylish but are reasonably cheap. We splurged on the mosaic tiles in the bathroom.
+ Any advice on where to spend or save? Be clear why you are spending money. We’re happy with splurging on some things because we want to enjoy the house for ever.
+ How did you approach the interior design? We kept the colour palette simple and used art and objects to highlight, rather than distract from, the design. An efficient use of space draws the eye to interesting objects.
+ Favourite thing about your home? It’s a joy spending our days in such a glorious space. We love the expansive glass and seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
CONTACTS
Builder Duncan Construction, Raumati South, search ‘Duncan Construction Limited’ on Facebook. Roof Auld Roofing, auldroofing.com. Joiner Ross Craft, 04 298 7480. Windows Omega Aluminium Kapiti, omegawindows.co.nz. Plumber Andy Magee Plumbing, andymageeplumbing.co.nz. Electrician Tone Electrical,
027 2255 949.