Productive and pretty: Terra Viva
These days, the word ‘containers’ conjures up the big steel rectangles stuck either in the Suez Canal or the wrong ports. But gardeners know that there’s another whole world of containers that can always be in the right place. Short of space or sunshine? Containers are your answer because of their flexibility; most food-producing plants […]
Make an entrance
The first aspect of a home many people notice is the front door. In real estate terms it is called kerb appeal, and there is nothing easier if you want to make a statement than to freshen a front door with a new coat of paint, or by installing a custom wood or steel door. […]
Think big
Trees are nature’s eye candy, and there’s nothing like mature trees to add impact in a garden. Even if you’re building new and starting your landscaping from scratch, there’s no reason why it shouldn’t include a few mature specimens to make it look more established. They’re big, elegant, and beautiful and they bring those same […]
Sustainable gardening
Gardening sustainably just makes sense in this fragile world of climate change and environmental damage. Actually doing it in your own backyard does take a little effort, but more and more New Zealand gardeners are finding that every step is worth it to create a garden that not only looks after your plants and you, […]
Curl up, outside
The season of lounging and entertaining outdoors is upon us, and so might be the time for a new and updated seating set-up for your outside area. Having a space to relax and enjoy outdoors means comfortable furniture that fits into your area nicely and looks the part too. Depending on the size of your […]
Optimising outdoor living: Louvre Solutions
Spring comes with unpredictable weather and just as we optimistically venture to our outdoor living areas, a sudden change sees us darting indoors again. A louvre roof is the perfect way to optimise your enjoyment of that space, even in the unpredictable spring weather. Louvre Solutions roof systems are more than just a slatted covering. […]
Summer fun poolside
As thoughts turn to summer and warmer days, many also turn to swimming; taking that first dip in the sea or better yet frolicking in your own pool. Always wanted a pool but don’t know where to start? Christchurch has numerous expert pool companies who’d be happy to talk about requirements and set the project […]
Personal taste to the fore: Luke Gardner
Outdoor entertaining is something to factor-in during the design process for your new-build home. Luke Gardner shares some ideas for creating your perfect outdoor space. “It’s about your own personal taste and just about anything goes.” When coming up with a plan, think about the situation of your section, your house shape and size, and […]
Outdoor furniture care
Now is an ideal time to start checking outdoor furniture for the coming spring and summer. Get rid of any rickety old stuff and invest in sturdy weather-proof tables and chairs, or revamp your existing ones. Future-proofing is a sound investment so buy waterproof covers for outdoor furniture, regardless of the material. Or store it […]
Enjoying the outside inside
Contemporary living often includes an “outdoor” kitchen, even a fireplace and a lounging area, all under cover and sheltered from the elements. Temperate weather doesn’t mean staying indoors. If you plan it right you can stay warm, cosy and dry in a purpose-built outdoor room. Here are some of Metropol’s tips for the essentials… […]
