SHOP THEIR STYLE
Basketwork, rattan pieces and plants in every room lend a soft boho touch to the no-fuss surfaces in this super-practical home
JECASTA’S TOP TIPS FOR GROUP BUILDING
+ Our experience with New Style Homes was unique because Pat was project and sales manager for the company at the time. That aside, everyone was great to deal with every step of the way.
+ Make little adjustments to the house plans to best suit your daily life. For example, we built the kitchen and laundry cabinetry right up to the ceiling to make maximum use of the space; it also stops dust bunnies and clutter from accumulating.
+ Lighting makes such a difference to the feel of any home. We added LED strip lighting to the underside of the cabinetry in the kitchen and laundry, and added good-quality outdoor lighting.
+ Really good extractor fans are a must – we upgraded to 500 cubic metres per hour, which means we have steam-free bathroom mirrors and no condensation. We also put mild extraction in the laundry and pantry (no more burnt-toast smell). + We added additional storage to the ceiling space including lighting and a solid pull-down ladder.
+ Plan your walk-in wardrobe to suit your needs. We requested a couple of rows of smaller shelving up high for my shoes; it’s such a great use of space.
+ Plan your outdoor living area as early as you can so you can get as much done as possible before you move in – eg pavers, lighting (or at least lay the conduit), garden taps at full mains pressure etc.
BUDGET
Land $186,000
Build $394,600 Landscaping $15,000 Total $595,600
CONTACTS & SHOPS
Building company New Style Homes, Christchurch, newstylehomes.net.nz.
Painting TJG Elite, 027 529 7427. Cabinetry Sockburn Joinery. Appliances Mitre 10 Rangiora. Citta outlet store, 752 Main North Road, Christchurch. Instagram @niche_gifts, @drifters.and.dreamers, @treasurehuntressnz.
Lighting Lighting Plus, Lighting Direct, Bunnings, Freedom.