Retaining Character: G.I. Builders
Transforming character homes into homes suitable for 21st century lifestyles takes both building expertise and empathy for the features of the original house. “It actually takes what I call a building brain,” says Grant Irving of G.I. Builders Ltd. “That’s something you develop over years of experience in doing a […]
The height of sophistication: Louvre Solutions
Indulge in the height of sophistication, the freedom of outdoor entertaining and relaxing in style to your own schedule. Spring is upon us and with the promise of long summer evenings on the horizon, now is the perfect time to plan on creating an exterior space that will enhance your […]
A four-fold favourite: DJ Hewitt Builders
Great things come out of a trusting two-way client relationship – Daryl and Tara of DJ Hewitt Builders, and Griff and Maree Lash of Estuary Veterinary Clinic, are testament. Originally neighbours two decades ago, ‘take one’ was in 2002 when Daryl built a mezzanine floor for the Ferrymead-based clinic’s 21-cage […]
Covetable outdoor spaces: Artworks Landscape
When thinking about landscaping specialists, the team at Artworks Landscape Ltd should spring to mind. They have been creating in Canterbury for more than 30 years – the team knows their business, and they love what they do. “Being resourceful and adaptable is the key,” says Ross Marriott, who started […]
Have a spring fling: The Ellesmere Spring Fling 2018
For lovers of beautiful gardens and anyone wanting a glorious day out in the fresh country air, The Ellesmere Spring Fling 2018 country fete on Sunday 7 October is a must. Held at Broadfield Garden from 11am to 4pm, 250 Selwyn Road, which is only 10 minutes from Hornby, these […]
Perfect plastering: Geocoat
Plastering is an art form – and a good plasterer is so highly skilled, they can make their craft look effortless. Geocoat Ltd owner Lewis Lester is testament to this. He has consistently been producing the highest quality work across the South Island for the past 15 years, establishing his own business […]
Part of a legacy: Refurbished Town Hall
The opportunity to get an exclusive preview of the extensive refurbishment of the Town Hall saw me standing on the old site of the Crowne Plaza one fine spring day. Now a Gap-Filler-style area full of food caravans with happy, relaxed locals meandering through, memories came flooding back, reminding me […]
Colour me calm
It was Australian writer/organiser Peter Walsh that once said, “Your home should be the antidote to stress, not the cause of it”. And never a truer word has been said. While we continually seek to de-stress outside of the home – taking a walk, heading to the gym or joining […]
Summoning Spring
All gardens beckon to be beautified in spring. Thankfully, the professionals can do those hard chores, making life so much easier. Pruning may seem simple, but there’s a science to it. A great gardener will have the knack. A professional prune up is a sensible spring start, to help produce […]
A luxurious lair: The Fox’s Lair
The Fox’s Lair is a fantastic little gift boutique with artistic, vintage and quirky finds, tucked around the corner from Café Metro at 121 Papanui Road. Owners Selma and Marie are all about supporting small NZ businesses and upcoming local artists as well as ethically importing select wares. The result […]
