Homecoming

Classic homes dotting the Tuscan countryside may look like they will stand the test of time but there is a very good chance that they already have. Traditional masonry-built Italian residences, standing proud for generations, offer security of construction as well as outstanding character.

Eden Homes has grown its reputation on the reliability and enduring aesthetic of solid masonry-constructed houses. Director Rob Dines says he specialises in masonry block designs because they embody the traditional European housing elements of solidity and craftsmanship.

"Our masonry houses exude permanence and strength from every angle and deep-set window reveal," says Dines. "The classic Italian feel goes beyond the solid concrete-block makeup everything from wrought ironwork, indoors and out, to precision-laid tile or timber floors, natural stone detailing, wood shutters and heavy beams reflects a house built with an artisan's touch.

"The majority of Eden Homes' designs feature dramatic, open-plan living spaces, and many have light-filled, double-height atriums."

Eden Homes is a design-and-build company that also offers a portfolio of pre-built designs to choose from. The company's catalogue designs sit well on either an urban site or on a larger rural section. The company can also bring a designer on board tocustom design a house to a client's specific needs.

"Here, the client wanted a custom solution a Mediterranean-feel home that would enhance their lifestyle and respect the values and technical requirements of the heritage-zone location," Dines says. "Masonry Design Solutions was introduced to the project, creating a site-specific home that opens to the northern aspect, and offers views of the ocean from the master bedroom balcony."

Besides standing for generations, the masonry-style residence offers other advantages. Concrete, with its dense thermal mass, ensures the house is cool in summer and absorbs warmth in winter. In addition, masonry construction means the house is whisper quiet, with the concrete blocks providing excellent acoustic control both between rooms and across levels of the residence.

Besides a protective family environment, the most important feature of an Eden Homes residence is its solid investment potential. The homes are structurally sound, never out of style, and as a consequence always in demand.

For more on Eden Homes or to find a show home, phone (09) 274 8890. Web: www.edenhomes.co.nz.

Building company: Eden Homes (Auckland), phone (09) 274 8890. Website: www.edenhomes.co.nz

Designer: Masonry Design Solutions, phone (09) 448 1101. Website: www.themasonrygroup.co.nz

Landscape design: Shafer Design (09) 420 4412.Web: www.shaferdesign.co.nz

Wall surfaces: Resene Paints, phone 0800 Resene (737 363). Website: www.resene.co.nz

Kitchen, bathroom and living space cabinetry: Good Kitchens, phone (09) 267 2687. Email: goodkitchens@xtra.co.nz

Wallboards: GIB products, from Winstone Wallboards, phone 0800 100 442. Website: www.gib.co.nz

Spouting: Continuous Spouting, phone (09) 268 1555. Website: www.continuous.co.nz

Paving: Jagas Paving, phone 0800 4 Jagas (452 427).Website: www.jagas.co.nz

Home automation: Automation Associates, phone (09) 377 3778. Website: www.aa.net.nz

Story by: Trendsideas