Family first

A bit of extra space in the home can make all the difference to a family's dynamics. While it's great to congregate, it's also important to be able to have some separation occasionally.

Recognising this, Lockwood's Kowhai show home featured here has been designed with spaces that accommodate the changing needs of a family. A large open-plan living, dining and kitchen area provides a central heart for entertaining friends and family. A second living area can be part of the larger space or cavity sliders can be pulled shut. The main living area flows through bifolding doors onto wide terraces that run the full length of the rear of the house.

Gable windows and high vaulted ceilings in the entry and living areas add drama and volume to the home, and high-level glazing ensures these rooms receive good natural light and sun all year round.

Lockwood franchisee Paul Brinsden says the strengths of the house include its low maintenance needs and longevity of materials. Outside, the central core of the house is clad in black-stained cedar, and to add interest, the wings on each side are finished in aluminium weatherboards.

Inside, Lockwood's signature style has been given a contemporary twist. Timber-clad walls and ceilings in the centre of the house are blonded to soften the look, while in the bedrooms and family area, the walls are plastered and painted.

The master suite, which also opens onto the terrace, is in one wing of the house, and two further bedrooms, a bathroom and laundry are in the other wing.

Story by: Trendsideas