Mellow yellow: interior designers are bringing the sunshine inside with yellow decor
In the past, yellow has suffered from a bit of an image problem. But it seems interior designers have launched a full-blown PR campaign advocating for its acceptance into the colour hall of fame and public perception of this sunny shade is looking up. Once treated as somewhat of an enigma, it’s now embraced as […]
Clearwater’s clever construction: we talk to Phil Benton Builders about building a dream home at one of Christchurch’s most expensive addresses
The second priciest street in Christchurch is Mayfly Lane at Clearwater, where the lake frontages make you feel a hundred miles from anywhere. Phil Benton Builders has just completed number ten. The angular street frontage is dramatic. The vast roof is sharp, while the not often seen Bluestone cladding mesmerises with its patterns. “The […]
Redefining lounging: Wilson & Dorset want to take people into a 21st century approach to living areas
Amanda Dorset and her husband Ben Wilson are on a mission to transform the way people live in their homes. Their business, Wilson & Dorset, aims to “redefine lounging”. “People follow this old-fashioned method of setting up their living space, with the traditional three-seater couch, two armchairs and a rug with a coffee table placed […]
People make the place: O’Neil Architecture
When people think of O’Neil Architecture, it might conjure up images of its award-winning homes scattered throughout New Zealand, or perhaps founder and Principle Designer Darren O’Neil springs to mind. However, there is a team of talented folk behind the scenes who passionately bring clients’ visions and dream homes to life – guiding clients through […]
A metallic moment: make your home shine with the trend that keeps on giving
Metallics have been having their ‘moment’ in the homewares spotlight for the longest time now, with their prevailing popularity suggesting they won’t be leaving any time soon. Which is rather an exciting prospect, when it comes to our inner-magpies. Long gone are the days when the fixtures in our houses – taps, handles, pipes, shower […]
Vintage vibes: get the look in your home
There’s something deliciously authentic about 20, 30 and 40 year old homewares with their ability to bring a well-loved homeliness and cosy warmth to a space. The prevailing popularity of the vintage vibe has seen it become an enduring style staple with a quality that transcends time. And, with the cyclical nature of trends bringing […]
Property prowess: How Red Hot Real Estate is making a name for themselves as a friendly honest firm
Canterbury’s Red Hot Real Estate is owned and operated by a down-to-earth family man. Fraser Moore has been simmering along building the marketing side of the business during the company’s inaugural year – but now he’s full steam ahead selling homes. The company name is striking. It stands out – just like these guys. “You […]
Solid and sought-after: Andrews of Canterbury Contracting is a labour of love for two local guys (both called Andrew)
The solid, sought-after work of Andrews of Canterbury Contracting Ltd is creating a strong presence across the region. Along Moorhouse Avenue there’s the smart louvre gates at Mitsubishi Motors. And, just across the road at Co Kids Childcare, the team has created a safe, functional environment with fences, a retaining wall, deck, sandpit and a […]
New lease on life: you don’t have to say goodbye to old favourites anymore thanks to McDonald and Hartshorne
There is much satisfaction in bringing a new lease of life to a well-loved piece of furniture and that is McDonald and Hartshorne’s specialty. “Customers are often amazed at our ability to return furniture to its former glory, or even better,” says Steve McDonald. “The work may be painstaking and require absolute attention to detail, […]
Falling into line: Cymon Allfrey on why good things take time (even when you wish they wouldn’t)
Architect Cymon Allfrey explains why following the rules ultimately leads to a more successful outcome – for us and our city. There will always be red tape. The processes required to reach an outcome at times can seem onerous, cumbersome and tedious – yet the role of rules in society creates order, structure and, in […]
