Trendsideas

Fairly demure from the street, this home opens up at the rear with expansive glazing to take in dramatic views of New Zealand's tallest mountain

What works well with a rustic country kitchen? Well, a rustic dining setting would be one apt accompaniment – as represented here

The groove lines of the beadboard wall finish in this study/guest bedroom downplay the presence of a wall aperture where a drop-down bed is concealed 

However, running without them is okay in this kitchen thanks to the soft cornered Caesarstone benchtops, chosen here for their relaxed feel 

Your spa pool should take care of you not the other way round – Hot Springs Spas introduces a Fully Automated Water Testing System that does the work for you

This shower stall strikes a dramatic chord, courtesy of moody Burnished Porcelain tiles – the same tile also covers much of the ensuite's walls

This transformative renovation, by Buildology, introduces a light-filled, modern rear living space that dovetails with the classic detailing of the original home and flows to the outdoors

Here, orange plants, libertia peregrinans, provide a border between lawn and path – creating a colourful, interesting contrast while softening the strong lines

In this bathroom, Twin Pan single basin mixers, in Brushed Nickel, from Robertson Bathware, continue a semi-industrial vibe from the concrete floors

Warm wood cabinetry and joinery contrasts and celebrates the use of monolithic concrete forms that continue inside this home as an extension of the exterior cladding

This master bedroom strikes a dramatic chord – scalloped walls were built and wallpapered, and a custom reeded velvet bedhead introduced 

Building pocket gardens into your architecture is the dream – this private rear patio is a little like a sculptural event in its own right, complete with plantings