One of the most asked questions I get about our home is about the cladding. People love the exterior and want to know exactly what it is and how we achieved the look. We used Weathergroove Natural 150mm by Weathertex, finished with Intergrain Charred Black, and it’s honestly been one of my favourite design choices. …
From someone who has just built a super dooper energy efficient house Learn the ten most common energy efficiency mistakes in new builds and renovations. Discover practical solutions from someone who built an 8.3-star energy efficient home. Avoid costly regrets and create a home that stays comfortable year-round. When people think about energy efficiency in …
Ceiling fans are often treated as a finishing touch, but in an energy efficient home they are an essential part of keeping spaces comfortable. In a well insulated, airtight build, airflow helps regulate temperature and reduces reliance on heating and cooling. When chosen thoughtfully, ceiling fans quietly support lower energy use while making rooms feel …
Choosing carpet was one of those decisions that felt simple at first, until I started looking at it through the lens of an 8 star energy efficient home. When you are building or renovating with performance in mind, the little things stop being little. Every material choice matters, not just for how it looks, but …
When you are building or renovating, comfort and running costs can shape the way your home feels every single day. For our build, choosing Panasonic for our heating, cooling, and hot water meant we could create one complete system that works together. A whole house solution is one of the most effective ways to improve …
Warm timber and creamy tones have been showing up more in interiors, and there is a good reason. These elements create a calm and nurturing atmosphere, especially in homes where life moves quickly and every room needs to work hard without feeling chaotic. Warm Timber Brings A Sense Of Grounding Timber has a natural ability …
When I started planning our new build, I knew one thing for sure. I wanted this house to feel calm, structured, and healthy. Life gets busy and a home should support you, not drain you. That is what pushed me toward an 8 star energy rating. It is not just a number. It is comfort, …
The front of a house is more than just a doorway. It is the first impression and sets the tone for everything inside. For our new home, we wanted an entry that feels inviting, a little hidden, and full of character. We have cobblestones leading right up to the house, creating texture underfoot and a …
When we were planning our new kitchen and entertaining spaces, one little detail became a big game-changer: our Billi tap. Not just any tap, but one that gives us boiling, chilled, and sparkling water instantly. It might sound like a small luxury, but in everyday life, it’s a total convenience upgrade. Instant Boiling Water for …
When it comes to building a new home, lighting is often one of those things people leave to the very end. A few downlights here, a pendant there, and the job is considered done. But after going through the process myself, I can honestly say that having a proper lighting plan has been one of …
Interior design trends are constantly shifting, but one thing we are seeing everywhere at the moment is the rise of darker tones and mixed timbers. From kitchens and bathrooms to living rooms and joinery details, this combination is becoming the go-to look for people wanting a home that feels warm, stylish, and timeless. The Shift …
When you are building or renovating, the bathroom is often one of the trickiest and priciest rooms to get right. Most people focus on vanities, tapware, or the latest feature tile. But one of the most affordable upgrades that will completely change how your bathroom looks and performs is tiling all the way to the …
