As the sun dips below the Southern Alps and paints the New Zealand sky in fiery hues, a spirit of transformation whispers through the air. It’s 2024, and the kiwi’s inherent love for innovation, sustainability, and well-being is manifesting in a vibrant tapestry of home renovation trends. From blurring the lines between indoors and nature’s embrace to carving out personal sanctuaries that reflect unique souls, these trends offer a tantalizing glimpse into the future of NZ homes.
1. Biophilic Bliss
Forget sterile walls and stark minimalism. Biophilic design is a tidal wave crashing onto the NZ renovation scene, urging us to embrace nature’s restorative power. Imagine sprawling indoor jungles of cascading ferns and vibrant philodendrons, where sunlight streams through skylights, painting dappled patterns on the rich hues of reclaimed wood floors. Pocket courtyards burst with fragrant herbs and colorful blooms, transforming your home into a verdant oasis. Studies have shown that incorporating natural elements into our living spaces reduces stress, promotes creativity, and boosts overall well-being (1). So, step outside, breathe in the crisp air, and let nature inspire you to weave its calming magic into your home.
2. Eco Warriors of Renovation
Kiwis are fiercely proud of their pristine landscapes, and this love for the land transcends into the realm of home renovations. Sustainability is no longer a buzzword, but a battle cry, leading the charge towards eco-conscious transformations. Imagine kitchens adorned with sleek, energy-efficient appliances that hum quietly, powered by rooftop solar panels basking in the sun’s bounty. Walls breathe with the help of recycled insulation, while reclaimed timber finds new life as countertops and shelves, whispering tales of past forests. The EECA Warmer Kiwi Homes programme becomes your trusted ally, empowering you to unlock grants for these eco-friendly upgrades (3). Remember, sustainable renovations aren’t just a fad; they’re an investment in the future of your home and the planet.
3. Outdoor Living Symphony
New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes beg to be savored, and outdoor living spaces are evolving into integral extensions of our homes. Picture expansive decks seamlessly blending with living areas, their warm timber floors echoing the embrace of the surrounding forests. Imagine plush outdoor furniture inviting you to sink into comfort, while a rustic pizza oven beckons with the promise of wood-fired feasts under the starlit sky. Cozy firepits crackle, casting warm glows on laughter-filled evenings with loved ones. Don’t just exist within your walls; extend your living space, embrace the symphony of nature, and let your home become a canvas for alfresco memories (4).
4. Multifunction Maestro
Space in NZ homes is precious, and multifunctional rooms are the maestros conducting a harmonious orchestra of utility. Living areas morph into dining spaces with the flick of a dining table, while cleverly concealed workstations tucked away in cabinetry transform kitchens into home offices. Bedrooms become havens for both slumber and productivity, with built-in desks and storage solutions maximizing every square foot. This isn’t about cramming furniture; it’s about orchestrating a seamless flow of function, where each space effortlessly adapts to your evolving needs (5).
5. Smart Home Symphony
Technology is no longer a distant echo; it’s an intricate melody woven into the fabric of our homes. Imagine smart lighting systems that adjust to your mood, casting warm hues for cozy evenings or cool blues for focused mornings. Thermostats whisper to your comfort, maintaining the perfect temperature without a moment’s thought. Security systems become invisible guardians, while appliances dance to your voice commands, freeing you to focus on the truly meaningful moments. Embrace the smart home symphony; let technology be your silent conductor, harmonizing your routines and elevating your comfort to new heights (6).
6. Upcycling and Repurposing Renaissance
Sustainability meets creativity in the upcycling and repurposing renaissance. Vintage furniture, once relegated to dusty attics, is reborn as statement pieces, its weathered patina whispering tales of bygone eras. Old doors transform into rustic coffee tables, while discarded pallets find new life as garden planters bursting with vibrant blooms. This trend isn’t just about saving resources; it’s about injecting your home with a unique soul, where every object breathes a story of your individuality and resourcefulness (7).
7. Wellness Whispers
Homes are our sanctuaries, and prioritizing well-being through design is no longer a whisper, but a booming chorus. Natural light floods spaces, banishing shadows and infusing them with life-giving energy. Calming color palettes, inspired by the soft hues of New Zealand’s native flora, soothe the senses and evoke tranquility. Dedicated relaxation areas, bathed in the gentle murmur of water features, beckon you to unwind. Yoga studios nestle in hidden corners, and home gyms equipped with state-of-the-art equipment empower you to sculpt your body and mind. Remember, wellness isn’t just about physical health; it’s a holistic symphony of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Let your home be the conductor, orchestrating a space that nurtures your soul and guides you towards a flourishing life.
8. Community Crescendo
With the rhythm of remote work and flexible living arrangements becoming ever stronger, fostering a sense of community within the home becomes a vital melody. Imagine shared spaces buzzing with activity, co-working areas where professionals collaborate and ideas spark, and communal gardens where neighbors gather, tending to the earth and cultivating connections. Rooftop terraces transform into social hubs, offering panoramic views and a stage for laughter-filled evenings under the stars. This trend isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about weaving threads of connection, creating a home that resonates with the spirit of collaboration and shared joy (9).
9. Local Love’s Embrace
Supporting local businesses and minimizing carbon footprints are the driving forces behind the trend of using locally sourced materials in renovations. Imagine walls adorned with handcrafted timber cladding from sustainably managed NZ forests, their grains whispering tales of ancient trees. Floors gleam with recycled stone sourced from nearby quarries, while bespoke furniture fashioned by local artisans reflects the unique aesthetic of your community. This isn’t just about choosing materials; it’s about investing in the fabric of your community, supporting the skilled hands that shape your environment, and minimizing the environmental footprint of your renovation (10).
10. House Extension Harmony
Sometimes, your heart beats for more than your existing walls can hold. House extensions become a melodic solution, adding extra space to amplify your life’s symphony. Imagine second-floor additions bathed in light, offering panoramic views or becoming dedicated havens for creativity and work. Granny flats bloom alongside the main house, providing space for aging parents or welcoming the rhythm of intergenerational living. Sunrooms burst with sunlight, inviting nature’s embrace and extending your living space beyond the traditional walls. Remember, an extension isn’t just about square footage; it’s about expanding the possibilities of your home, creating a space that adapts to your evolving needs and dreams (11).
11. Outdoor Renovation Rhapsody
Don’t let your backyard remain an unsung verse in the symphony of your home. Landscape transformations paint a vibrant melody, where pathways winding through lush greenery guide you to hidden corners of tranquility. Water features add their gentle murmur, while pergolas draped in bougainvillea create pockets of shade and romance. Decks become stages for alfresco dining and stargazing, their timber echoing the warmth of crackling firepits that cast a glow on laughter-filled evenings. Outdoor renovations aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about extending your living space, weaving nature’s beauty into your daily life, and creating a canvas for unforgettable memories (12).
12. Pergola & Deck Duets
Pergolas and decks are the instrumentalists in the outdoor living orchestra, offering shade, shelter, and an additional stage for life’s performance. Imagine timber pergolas adorned with climbing vines, their leafy canopies filtering sunlight into dappled patterns. Choose from sleek minimalist designs or rustic timber structures, each echoing the melody of your home’s architectural style. Decks become extensions of your living space, their warm timber floors blending seamlessly with indoor areas. Consider decking materials like sustainably sourced composite or locally-grown hardwoods, ensuring beauty and longevity. Pergolas and decks aren’t just structures; they’re invitations to slow down, soak up the sun, and create memories that resonate with laughter and the sweet melody of birdsong (13).
13. Double Glazing Symphony
Forget the cacophony of traffic or the biting wind that chills your bones. Double glazing windows become the soundproof maestros in your home’s symphony, insulating you from the outside world and weaving a cocoon of comfort. Imagine windows that not only reduce energy bills by keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer but also create a haven of tranquility, where the only music is the whisper of the wind through the trees and the gentle strum of raindrops on glass. Double glazing isn’t just about practicality; it’s about investing in your peace of mind, creating a sanctuary where you can truly unwind and savor the quiet moments (14).
14. Bespoke Kitchens – Culinary Crescendo
The kitchen is the heart of the home, where culinary symphonies are composed and shared. Bespoke designs become the personalized melody, reflecting your unique culinary passions and seamlessly blending with your overall style. Imagine handcrafted cabinetry in rich timber tones, their smooth surfaces whispering tales of skilled craftsmanship. High-quality appliances, chosen for both function and form, become your trusted instruments in the kitchen, their sleek lines and intuitive interfaces echoing the rhythm of your cooking style. Consider smart technologies that seamlessly integrate, transforming mundane tasks into effortless experiences. A bespoke kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that ignites your culinary passion, fosters connection with loved ones, and becomes the heart of your home’s joyful symphony (15).
15. Personalized Sanctuary – Final Chorus
Cookie-cutter homes are a distant melody in today’s symphony of individuality. Embrace your unique spirit and let your home be the final, triumphant chorus of your personality. Bold design choices become the vibrant flourishes, adding splashes of color and unexpected textures that reflect your inner spark. Statement pieces, curated with love and care, become the focal points, singing tales of your travels, passions, and cherished memories. DIY projects, infused with your creativity and dedication, add a personal touch, weaving a thread of your soul into the very fabric of your home. Remember, a personalized sanctuary isn’t about following trends; it’s about creating a space that speaks your truth, resonates with your spirit, and allows you to live your life’s unique and beautiful melody to the fullest.
The trends we’ve explored are just the opening notes in the ever-evolving symphony of home renovation in New Zealand. Stay informed, listen to the whispers of inspiration in your surroundings, and embrace the rhythm of change. Remember, your home is your instrument, your canvas, your sanctuary. Play your own unique melody, let your creativity dance with innovation, and above all, create a space that reflects the beautiful symphony of your life.
To Summarise
What are the key themes shaping home renovations in NZ in 2024?
The main themes are sustainability, well-being, connection, and personalization. Kiwis are embracing natural elements, eco-friendly practices, spaces that promote relaxation and community, and unique designs that reflect their individual styles.
Why should I consider incorporating these trends into my renovation?
These trends not only improve your home's aesthetics and comfort but also contribute to sustainability, enhance your well-being, foster connections with loved ones and neighbors, and ultimately create a space that truly reflects your personality.
How can I make my renovation more sustainable?
Use recycled or reclaimed materials, opt for energy-efficient appliances and fixtures, incorporate renewable energy sources like solar panels, and prioritize locally sourced materials.
Is double glazing worth the investment?
Yes, double glazing can significantly improve thermal insulation, reducing energy bills and creating a more comfortable living environment. It also reduces noise pollution and creates a quieter haven.
How can I make my home reflect my unique personality?
Embrace bold design choices, incorporate statement pieces you love, showcase your hobbies and passions through curated objects, and don't be afraid to DIY and add your own creative touch.
Where can I find more information about these trends and renovation inspiration?
Check out local design blogs, architecture magazines, and social media platforms. You can also talk to reputable contractors, architects, and interior designers for expert advice. Additionally, organizations like EECA and local environmental groups offer resources and grants for sustainable renovation projects.
Remember, your home renovation is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy the process, embrace the possibilities, and most importantly, create a space you love and feel comfortable calling your own.
Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations
Dreaming of transforming your Auckland abode with a spacious extension? Whether you crave extra room for a growing family, yearn for a luxurious home office, or envision seamless indoor-outdoor living, an extension can revitalize your space and dramatically improve your quality of life. But before construction commences, careful planning and preparation are crucial for a smooth and rewarding journey. This comprehensive guide unveils everything you need to know about planning a house extension in Auckland in 2024, from defining your needs to navigating permits and choosing the perfect architect.
Try Our House Extension Cost Calculator
The cost of a house extension in Auckland can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the size of the extension, the type of materials used, and any additional features you want to include. Calculator has been updated to reflects prices in the year 2023, estimates generated by the calculator is subject to change. The prices are based on average costings in the Auckland region, price’s may vary in other regions of New Zealand (eg cost of consent).
Space Creation: A cramped kitchen, crowded bedrooms, or a lack of dedicated work areas – extensions solve these space dilemmas, fostering functional and comfortable living. As architect Tom Wilkinson of TWW Architects highlights, “A well-designed extension can breathe new life into an existing home, providing much-needed space and improving the overall flow and functionality.”
Boosting Property Value: Adding square footage translates to increased market value. In Auckland, the 2024 QVNZ House Price Index reveals an 18.5% year-on-year price increase, and a well-designed extension can add even more to your home’s worth. Real estate agent Sarah Jones of Ray White Auckland Central notes, “In my experience, a successful extension can add up to 20% to the property value, making it a worthwhile investment.”
Lifestyle Upgrade: Imagine a sun-drenched family room seamlessly merging with the garden, a luxurious walk-in wardrobe attached to your bedroom, or a gourmet kitchen perfect for hosting. Extensions elevate your daily experience, transforming your house into a sanctuary of comfort and enjoyment. Superior Renovations Head of Design (Dorothy) emphasizes, “A house extension is more than just adding bricks and mortar; it’s about creating a space that truly enhances your lifestyle and reflects your personality.”
Navigating the Roadmap of Planning a House Extension
Needs & Budget Decoded
Before architects and blueprints, define your vision. What additional rooms do you crave? How much are you willing to invest? This clarity ensures your project aligns with your aspirations and financial realities. As financial advisor Peter Brown of Moneywise Auckland advises, “Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Factor in unforeseen costs and leave room for flexibility.”
Architect or Designer: Your Creative Companions
Seek the expertise of a qualified architect or designer. They’ll translate your needs into blueprints, manage permits, and guide you through the design process, ensuring an extension that complements your house’s style and blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Architect Lisa Williams of Studio Williams reminds us, “Choose an architect who not only listens to your needs but also challenges your ideas and brings their expertise to the table.”
Permit Procurement
Understanding and obtaining the necessary permits is crucial. From building consents to resource consents, your architect or designer will advise you on the permits required for your specific project, ensuring compliance with Auckland Council regulations. Remember, as planner John Lee of Auckland Council points out, “Getting the right permits upfront saves you time and money in the long run.”
Builder Selection: The Brick-and-Mortar Masters
Choosing the right builder is paramount. Opt for a licensed and experienced professional with a stellar reputation and references. Don’t hesitate to interview multiple builders, ask for detailed quotes, and ensure their expertise aligns with your project’s requirements. Kevin from Superior Renovations stresses, “Communication is key. Choose a builder who clearly explains the process, answers your questions honestly, and keeps you updated throughout the project.”
Budgeting Brilliantly
Comparative Quote Collection
Don’t settle for the first price tag you encounter. Secure quotes from several builders to compare costs and services. Remember, the cheapest quote might not guarantee the best quality or experience. As financial blogger Sarah Green of MoneySaver.co.nz advises, “Do your research and compare apples to apples. Get detailed quotes that break down the costs of materials, labor, and permits.”
Cost Considerations Beyond Bricks and Mortar
Factor in permits, architect/designer fees, materials, finishes, and potential unforeseen expenses. A 10-15% contingency buffer in your budget will provide peace of mind in case of unexpected costs. Building consultant Peter Jones of Project Management Auckland suggests, “Break down your budget into different categories and track your spending throughout the project.”
Hidden Cost Catchers
Be aware of potential cost inflators like complex architectural details, custom finishes, or extensive groundwork modifications. Discuss these aspects with your architect and builder upfront to avoid budgetary surprises. Architect Tom Wilkinson adds, “Simplicity can be cost-effective. Opt for clean lines and functional designs to keep your budget on track.”
Step by Step Process to House Extensions in Auckland
Step 1: Define Your Needs and Budget:
Before contacting any professionals, take time to identify your extension goals. What additional rooms do you need? How much space do you envision? Set a realistic budget considering unforeseen costs and leave room for flexibility. Remember, as financial advisor Peter Brown of Moneywise Auckland advises, “It’s crucial to have a clear vision and financial roadmap before embarking on your extension journey.”
Step 2: Find the Right Renovation Company and Architect:
Research and gather recommendations for reputable renovation companies specializing in house extensions. Request quotes and interview multiple companies to gauge their experience, communication style, and understanding of your needs. Once you choose your preferred company, ask for their recommendations for a qualified architect or designer. Architect Lisa Williams of Studio Williams emphasizes, “A good architect acts as your creative partner, translating your vision into a functional and aesthetically pleasing reality.”
Step 3: Initial Consultation with Architect:
Discuss your ideas and budget with the architect in detail. Share reference images, inspirations, and any concerns you might have. The architect will assess your existing house, property limitations, and potential zoning restrictions. Based on this consultation, they will present initial design concepts and a rough cost estimate.
Key Steps:
Consultation: Let’s sit down for a chat about what you’re envisioning for your home.
Feasibility Study: We’ll conduct a feasibility study to see if your project is doable. This includes checking out the site, understanding council regulations, and spotting any potential hiccups.
Cost Estimate: You’ll get a rough estimate of the costs involved to make sure everything fits within your budget.
Step 4: Developing Concept Plans and Obtaining Permits:
The architect will refine the design based on your feedback, creating detailed concept plans with specifications for materials, finishes, and layouts. Remember, open communication is key. Don’t hesitate to express your preferences and concerns at every stage. Meanwhile, your architect or renovation company will assist you in navigating the necessary permits required by Auckland Council.
Key Steps:
Concept Design: Work with our architect to create a concept design that brings your vision to life.
Detailed Design: We’ll develop detailed architectural drawings, including floor plans, elevations, and even some 3D renders to give you a clear picture.
Council Approvals: We’ll handle submitting the detailed design to your local council for planning and building consent, ensuring everything complies with New Zealand’s building regulations.
Step 5: Finalizing Plans and Costing:
With finalized concept plans in hand, the architect will provide a comprehensive breakdown of the project costs, including materials, labor, permits, and unforeseen contingencies. Be sure to review the breakdown carefully and ask clarifying questions before proceeding. This transparency ensures you make informed decisions within your budget.
Step 6: Building Consent and Contract Signing:
Once final plans and costing are approved, your architect will submit an application for building consent to Auckland Council. This process may involve additional revisions or clarifications based on council regulations. Upon receiving building consent, your renovation company will prepare a detailed contract outlining the entire project scope, timeline, payment schedule, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Ensure all terms are clear and understood before signing.
Step 7: Construction Phase:
Construction commences! Your chosen renovation company will manage the entire process, overseeing sub-contractors, material deliveries, and quality control. Remember, clear communication is crucial. Stay informed about progress, raise any concerns promptly, and ensure the builder adheres to the agreed-upon plans and schedules.
Key Steps:
Foundation and Framing: We’ll lay the foundation and build the framework of your extension.
Structural Work: Complete all structural work, including walls, roofing, and windows.
Internal Work: Install internal elements like plumbing, electrical systems, insulation, and drywall.
Finishing Touches: Add the finishing touches like flooring, painting, and installing fixtures.
Step 8: Inspections and Final Touches:
Throughout construction, council inspectors will visit the site at key stages to ensure compliance with building regulations. Once all aspects comply, a final inspection will grant completion authority. Your renovation company will then complete any final touches, clean up the site, and address any minor snags.
Key Steps:
Progress Inspections: Conduct regular inspections at key stages of construction.
Quality Checks: Perform quality checks to ensure all work is up to standard.
Council Inspections: Arrange for council inspections as required to verify compliance with the building consent.
Step 9: Handover and Warranty:
The culmination of your exciting journey! Upon complete satisfaction, your renovation company will formally hand over the extension to you. This includes providing warranty paperwork for materials and workmanship, final payment receipts, and maintenance guidelines. Take time to familiarize yourself with your new space and celebrate the successful transformation of your home.
Key Steps:
Final Inspection: Conduct a final inspection with your builder to make sure everything is completed to your satisfaction.
Handover: Receive keys and all the relevant documentation, including warranties and manuals.
Defect Period: Be aware of the defect liability period during which any issues can be rectified by the builder.
Step 10: Applying for Code Compliance Certificate (CCC):
The last step is to apply for the Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) from your local council. This certificate confirms that your extension meets all building regulations and standards.
Key Steps:
Complete Application: Submit the CCC application to your local council, including all required documentation and inspection records.
Council Inspection: The council will conduct a final inspection to verify compliance with the building consent.
Receive CCC: Once approved, you’ll receive your Code Compliance Certificate, marking the official completion of your home extension.
Remember, this step-by-step process is a general guide. Specific timelines, procedures, and requirements may vary depending on your project’s complexity and Auckland Council regulations. Always consult with your chosen renovation company and architect for detailed guidance throughout your extension journey.
House Extension Cost Breakdown in Auckland (2024)
Extension Size
Average Cost per sq m
Total Estimated Cost
Across vs Upwards Price Difference
Recommended Contingency (%)
50 sq m
$3,000 – $6,000
$150,000 – $300,000
+20 – 30%
10 – 15%
100 sq m
$2,700 – $5,250
$270,000 – $525,000
+15 – 25%
10 – 15%
150 sq m
$2,400 – $4,800
$360,000 – $720,000
+10 – 20%
10 – 15%
Notes:
Price differences: Adding another level (extending upwards) is generally 10-30% more expensive than extending across on a single level due to additional structural requirements, stairs, and potentially complex roofing modifications.
Contingency: A 10-15% contingency is recommended to cover unforeseen costs like groundworks issues, material price fluctuations, or minor design changes during construction.
Additional Cost Factors:
Materials and finishes: High-end materials like stone or timber will significantly increase the cost compared to basic materials.
Complexity of design: Intricate architectural details or custom-built elements will be more expensive than simple, functional designs.
Permits and fees: Building consent, resource consent, and other fees can add to the overall cost.
Labor costs: Experienced builders may charge more than less experienced ones.
Remember: These are estimated costs and actual prices will vary depending on your specific project requirements and chosen contractors. Always obtain multiple quotes and carefully review the project scope and breakdown of costs before committing.
Try Our House Extension Cost Calculator
The cost of a house extension in Auckland can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the size of the extension, the type of materials used, and any additional features you want to include. Calculator has been updated to reflects prices in the year 2023, estimates generated by the calculator is subject to change. The prices are based on average costings in the Auckland region, price’s may vary in other regions of New Zealand (eg cost of consent).
Discuss your plans with adjoining neighbors and be mindful of potential privacy concerns or light obstruction your extension might cause. As mediation expert Anna Wilson of Auckland Dispute Resolution Centre advises, “Open communication with your neighbors can prevent future conflicts and ensure a smooth building process.”
Underestimating the Permit Process
Don’t assume permits are a formality. Research and understand the required permits early on, and factor in the time and potential costs involved in obtaining them. Architect Lisa Williams reminds us, “Delays due to missing permits can be costly and frustrating. Plan ahead and involve your architect or designer in navigating the permit process.”
Rushing into Contracts
Thoroughly review contracts with your builder before signing. Ensure clear details regarding timelines, budget breakdowns, materials used, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Kevin from Superior Renovations emphasizes, “A well-written contract protects both parties and sets clear expectations for the project.”
Neglecting Energy Efficiency
Prioritize sustainable materials and construction practices. Double-glazed windows, efficient insulation, and solar panels can save you money in the long run and reduce your environmental footprint. Building consultant Peter Jones adds, “Sustainable extensions not only benefit the environment but also increase the value of your home.”
Hypothetical Projects and Outcomes
Project 1: Family Haven (Budget: $150,000 – $200,000):
The Jones family seeks a single-story extension adding a spacious open-plan living area and a dedicated laundry room. This project prioritizes natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, incorporating large windows and sliding doors opening onto a deck. By opting for simple finishes and readily available materials, the Jones keep costs within budget. The outcome: a transformed living space perfect for family gatherings and enjoying the Auckland sunshine.
Project 2: Home Office Sanctuary (Budget: $75,000 – $100,000):
Sarah, a remote worker, desires a quiet, well-lit home office separate from the main house. She opts for a smaller, detached studio extension with soundproofing features and ample natural light. Choosing recycled materials and pre-fabricated elements keeps the costs down. The result: a peaceful haven for focused work with a minimal environmental impact.
Project 3: Luxury Master Suite Retreat (Budget: $250,000 – $300,000):
The Edwards couple dreams of a luxurious master suite extension above their existing garage. This project involves complex roof modifications and bespoke finishes, including a walk-in wardrobe and a spa-like bathroom. Careful planning and collaboration with the architect and builder ensure the extension seamlessly blends with the existing house. The outcome: a private oasis of indulgence offering panoramic views and ultimate relaxation.
Problems and Solutions:
Unexpected Groundwork Issues: During construction, the Jones family encounter unforeseen rocky ground requiring additional excavation and foundation work. To stay within budget, they adapt the design slightly and opt for cost-effective alternatives for finishes.
Permit Delays: Sarah’s detached studio extension requires resource consent due to its proximity to the property line. While delays disrupt the initial timeline, open communication with the council and adjustments to the plans expedite the process.
Cost Overruns: The Edwards couple encounter higher-than-expected material costs due to global supply chain disruptions. To compensate, they adjust some finishes and implement energy-efficient solutions that deliver long-term cost savings.
These hypothetical scenarios illustrate the diverse possibilities and potential challenges of house extensions. By planning meticulously, communicating effectively, and staying flexible, homeowners can navigate the process and successfully achieve their dream extensions.
To Summarise
How much does a house extension cost in Auckland?
Extension costs can vary greatly depending on size, complexity, materials, and chosen contractors. This guide provides estimated cost ranges per square meter, with a 50% increase to reflect market volatility. Expect single-story extensions to be around $2,400 - $4,800 per sqm, and additional levels costing 10-20% more. Remember, it's crucial to obtain detailed quotes and factor in a 10-15% contingency for unforeseen expenses.
Do I need council permission for an extension?
Yes, most house extensions require building consent from Auckland Council. Your architect or renovation company will help guide you through the permit process, which may involve resource consent for larger projects or those impacting neighboring properties.
What's the difference between extending across or upwards?
Adding another level (extending upwards) is generally 10-20% more expensive than extending across on one level. Upwards extensions involve complex structural work, stairs, and potentially challenging roofing modifications. Consider your budget, desired space usage, and existing house characteristics when deciding between these options.
What are some common pitfalls to avoid during an extension project?
Underestimating the permit process, rushing into contracts without clear details, and neglecting energy efficiency are common pitfalls. Communicate openly with neighbors, choose an experienced builder with clear communication, and prioritize sustainability to ensure a smooth and rewarding experience.
How can I manage unexpected costs during my extension?
Include a 10-15% contingency in your budget to cover unforeseen expenses like groundworks issues, material price fluctuations, or minor design changes. Choose reliable suppliers and contractors, discuss potential supply chain risks, and be prepared to adapt slightly if necessary to stay within your budget.
Conclusion:
A house extension is not just an addition to your home; it’s an investment in your lifestyle and well-being. By embracing careful planning, seeking expert guidance, and prioritizing both functionality and sustainability, you can transform your Auckland abode into a space that truly reflects your dreams and enhances your life for years to come. So, embark on this exciting journey with optimism, knowledge, and a collaborative spirit, and witness your vision unfold into a beautiful and enriching reality.
Remember, this is just a guide, and the specific costs, challenges, and outcomes for your extension will vary depending on your unique project and circumstances. Always consult with experienced professionals and gather multiple quotes before making any final decisions. We wish you all the best in your house extension journey!
Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations
When it comes to home renovations, there is often a focus on updating the interior of the home. However, outdoor landscaping is just as important when it comes to creating a beautiful and functional living space. In this article, we will explore the ways in which outdoor landscaping complements home renovations, and the benefits of creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow in your home. We will also be discussing the various components of outdoor Living, the costs involved and the design process to keep in mind.
Importance of Outdoor Landscaping in Home Renovations
Outdoor landscaping is an integral part of any home renovation project. Not only does it enhance the appearance and value of your home, but it also adds functionality and livability to your outdoor spaces. Landscaping can transform a drab and uninviting yard into a lush and inviting oasis that complements the interior of your home.
Doing research for your Home renovations? Try our Cost Calculators (results within 2 minutes)
One of the key benefits of outdoor landscaping is creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This allows you to maximize the use of your property and create an environment that feels cohesive and connected. By incorporating design elements that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, you can enhance the overall functionality and livability of your home.
The renovation below shows a home that has lush landscaping with a deck that extends the client’s living space. See full interior and outdoor renovation photos for this Home renovation in Greenlane, Auckland.
We created a deck that leads out of the interior living space which extends the living space of the client to enjoy their outdoors.
4 Benefits of Outdoor Landscaping in Home Renovations
There are numerous benefits to incorporating outdoor landscaping into your home renovation project.
1. Enhancing Curb Appeal
Outdoor landscaping can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your home. A well-designed yard and outdoor living space can make your home stand out and create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Project Spotlight: This home renovation see below also had landscaping done to include a features a large pool area with custom built benches, Concrete Flooring, trees, plants and pathways. This is a great area for entertaining as well as relaxation. This outdoor area opens up from the interior living areas creating a seamless indoor/outdoor living.
This outdoor landscaping was done as a part of an interior renovation in Epsom, Auckland. Our client loved to entertain her friends and wanted an attractive and welcoming space outdoors where they could relax. We custom built the benches that can be seen which also has storage within it.
As seen in the picture, the benches have storage within them to store all outdoor accessories.
2. Maximizing Living Space
By incorporating outdoor living spaces, such as patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens, you can significantly increase the living space of your home. This allows you to enjoy your property to the fullest and create additional areas for entertaining and relaxation.
The home renovation project below shows that even if you do not have a large space outside your home, you can still create an outdoor living space if designed well. We created a deck all around the house to create outdoor dining space, a hot tub and a barbeque area.
A deck was created around the house to extend the living space for the client.
This side of the deck shows a small lawn and an extended deck for lounging
3. Improving Health and Well-Being
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can have significant benefits for both physical and mental health. Incorporating outdoor spaces into your home renovation project can provide a peaceful retreat from the stresses of daily life and promote relaxation and well-being.
4. Boosting Property Value
Well-designed outdoor spaces can significantly increase the value of your property. Outdoor living spaces, such as decks and patios, are highly sought after by homebuyers and can help you command a higher sale price when it’s time to sell.
When planning your outdoor landscaping, it’s essential to choose the right features that complement your home’s style and function. This may include elements such as:
Hardscaping, such as patios, walkways, and retaining walls
Softscaping, including plants, trees, and shrubs
Water features, such as fountains, ponds, and streams
Outdoor lighting to enhance the ambiance and safety of your outdoor spaces
As with any home renovation project, it’s essential to consider the long-term maintenance and sustainability of your outdoor landscaping. This may include selecting plants and materials that are appropriate for your climate, investing in irrigation systems, and planning for regular maintenance to keep your outdoor spaces looking their best.
What are the most Popular Materials for Decks in NZ?
What is the Cost to Build a Deck in NZ?
FENCES
Types of Popular Fences in NZ?
What is the Cost to Add a Fence in NZ?
DRIVEWAYS
Types of Driveways in NZ?
Concrete Driveways – Advantages and Disadvantages
Gravel Driveways – Advantages and Disadvantages
What is the Cost to Add a Driveway in NZ?
OUTDOOR KITCHENS
What is the cost to add Outdoor Kitchens?
LAWNS
Types of Lawns and their Pros and Cons
What is the Cost to add different types of Grasses for Your Lawn?
Pergolas and Gazebos
If you’re looking to create a stunning outdoor space in New Zealand, a pergola is a great option. It not only adds visual appeal but also provides shade and shelter. However, designing a pergola can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to achieve a good design for a pergola in New Zealand.
Pergolas are a popular outdoor structure in New Zealand that can enhance the beauty of your home and provide a comfortable outdoor space for relaxation or entertaining. When searching for pergola designs in NZ, it’s important to consider the following:
Style of your Pergola
The materials that are used to build your Pergola
The size of your Pergola depending on your reason to build a pergola
Your budget for the renovation
4 Considerations Before Designing a Pergola
Before you begin designing your pergola, there are several considerations you should take into account:
Location
The location of your pergola is crucial to its design. You need to consider the view, accessibility, and any obstacles that may be present. You also need to take into account the direction of the sun and the wind in order to ensure that your pergola provides adequate shade and protection. Louvered pergolas in NZ can provide additional flexibility for shading as they allow for adjustable blades to control the amount of sunlight and ventilation.
Purpose
The purpose of your pergola is also important. Are you building it for aesthetic purposes, or do you need it to provide shade and shelter? Will it be used for outdoor dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing? Depending on your intended use, the design and size of your pergola can vary.
This Pergola that we created was with the purpose of enjoying the weather regarding its conditions. It was not just to provide shade because if it was then we would have created a roof of it with shade and not glass. Hence it is important to consider the reason you are including a Pergola before thinking about the design or the materials for the building a Pergola.
This Pergola we built so our clients could enjoy all kinds of weather and not just to provide shade and hence we used glass roofing for the pergola.
Materials
Choosing the right materials for your pergola is essential. You need to consider the durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal of the materials. Common materials used for pergolas include wood, vinyl, and aluminum. Louvered pergolas can be made from durable materials like powder-coated aluminum or high-grade steel that are resistant to weather conditions and require minimal maintenance.
Budget
Your budget is also a critical consideration. The cost of a pergola can vary widely depending on the size, materials, and accessories you choose. It’s important to set a budget before you begin designing your pergola to ensure that you don’t overspend. By choosing a louvered pergola in NZ, you can have a cost-effective solution that provides a luxurious and stylish outdoor space.
Designing a Pergola in NZ homes
Once you’ve taken into account the above considerations, it’s time to start designing your pergola.
Choosing the Style
There are several styles of pergolas to choose from, including traditional, modern, and rustic. You should choose a style that complements the architecture of your home and the landscape of your property. When looking for pergola designs in NZ, you can choose from a range of styles that suit your taste and budget.
Sizing the Pergola
The size of your pergola will depend on several factors, including the purpose of the pergola and the size of your outdoor space. You should also consider any furniture or accessories you plan to add to the pergola. To determine the size, measure the area where you plan to install the pergola and decide on the appropriate dimensions. A louvered pergola can be customized to fit your specific size requirements.
Adding Accessories
To make your pergola more functional and stylish, you can add accessories such as lighting, fans, and curtains. These accessories not only add to the beauty of your pergola but also provide additional functionality, making it a more versatile outdoor space.
Designing a pergola in New Zealand requires careful consideration of the location, purpose, materials, and budget. By choosing a louvered pergola, you can have a cost-effective and stylish outdoor space that provides shade and protection from the elements. With the right design and maintenance, your pergola can be a beautiful addition to your home and a comfortable outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment.
5 Steps for Designing a High-End Deck, Pergola or Gazebo
The first step in designing a pergola, or gazebo is to assess your needs. Consider how you plan to use the space, the size of your backyard, and your budget. A deck will typically be the most cost-effective option, while a gazebo will be the most expensive due to its fully enclosed structure. A pergola is a great option for those looking for a balance between cost and functionality.
Choose your Materials
The materials you choose for your deck, pergola, or gazebo will have a significant impact on the look and feel of the structure, as well as its durability. In New Zealand, you will want to choose materials that are resistant to the weather and pests. Popular choices for high-end decks, pergolas, and gazebos in NZ include hardwoods like ipe or cedar, which are durable and resistant to rot and decay.
2. Plan Your Layout
The layout of your deck, pergola, or gazebo is crucial to creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor living space. Consider the size and shape of your backyard, as well as the location of your home. You may want to consult with a professional to help you design a layout that maximizes your space and enhances your home’s architectural features. In New Zealand, it is also important to consider factors such as sun exposure and wind direction when planning your layout.
3. Incorporate Unique Features
Adding unique features to your deck, pergola, or gazebo will make your outdoor living space stand out. Consider adding built-in benches, planters, lighting, or even a fire pit. These features will enhance the functionality and beauty of your space while creating a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. In New Zealand, you may also want to consider adding outdoor heaters or shelter to make the space usable year-round.
This Pergola that we built for our client was done more for aesthetics reason as well as to provide some shade from the weather. It extends from the main structure of the house and 2 of them run in parallels to each other. This provides the family with extended living space, and an opportunity to have a nice indoor/outdoor flow for entertainment and relaxation.
This pergola or Louvre was built to provide shade and to utilise the outdoor space for the clients to extend their living space.
4. Choose Your Finishing Touches
The finishing touches you choose for your deck, pergola, or gazebo will tie the space together and make it feel complete. Consider adding outdoor furniture, cushions, and accessories that complement the style and color of your structure. This will create a cohesive and inviting outdoor living space that you will enjoy for years to come. In New Zealand, you may also want to consider adding native plants or other landscaping elements that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
5. Costs
The cost of a high-end deck, pergola, or gazebo in New Zealand will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and materials used. As a rough guide, a basic deck can cost around $1,500 – $3,000 per square meter, while a pergola can cost $3,000 – $6,000 per square meter. A gazebo, which is the most expensive option, can cost $10,000 – $20,000 or more, depending on the size and materials used.
What are the most Popular types of Materials for Decks in NZ?
When it comes to building a deck, choosing the right material is key. Factors to consider include durability, maintenance requirements, aesthetics, and cost. New Zealand has a wide range of climate zones, from subtropical to sub-Antarctic, and the type of material used should be able to withstand the local conditions. In this article, we will discuss the most popular types of deck materials used in NZ and their associated costs.
Timber Decking
Timber decking is one of the most popular materials used for building decks in NZ. It is a natural material that is readily available and comes in a variety of species, such as pine, kwila, and macrocarpa. Timber decking has a warm and natural look that blends well with the surrounding landscape. It is also easy to work with and can be cut and shaped to suit any design.
Pine
Pine is the most commonly used timber for decking in NZ. It is readily available and relatively inexpensive. Pine decking is easy to work with and can be stained or painted to achieve a range of finishes. However, pine is not as durable as some other species and requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay.
This timber decking was created for our client in Cockle Bay on the second level of the house that opens up from the master suite. Project Spotlight: See full Project Specifications + Pictures.
Timber deck built on the second level of the house with Pine which leads from the master bedroom suite.
Kwila
Kwila is a hardwood that is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific. It is highly durable and has a rich, reddish-brown color that deepens with age. Kwila is a popular choice for high-end decks, but it is also one of the more expensive options.
This Outdoor renovation is the same as the project above but the difference is that the deck we created in the ground floor was created using Kwila wood. This large deck leads off the main living areas and provides ample space for entertainment and living.
Kwila Deck built in Cockle Bay
Pros of Kwila Decking
Durability: Kwila decking is a dense and durable hardwood that is resistant to rot and insect damage. It has a high natural oil content, which makes it highly resistant to moisture and decay.
Aesthetics: Kwila decking has a beautiful reddish-brown color that gives it a natural and warm appearance. It can also be stained or oiled to achieve different colors and finishes.
Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, Kwila decking can last for decades, making it a good long-term investment for your outdoor living space.
Sustainability: Kwila decking is harvested from sustainably managed forests, which makes it an eco-friendly choice for those who are concerned about the environment.
Project Spotlight: This home renovation was an extensive one where we renovated the interiors as well as the exterior of the home. The landscaping we did outdoors included a large deck made from Kwila wood which leads down as steps to the small lawn area below. We also created decking on different levels on the sides of the home to create more cozy areas for the family to share.
This landscaping project involved creating a large Kwila Deck around the house with the front section going down in stairs leading to a small lawn area that was fenced with aluminium fencing providing spectacular views of the Mellon’s Bay in Auckland
Cons of Kwila Decking
Cost: Kwila decking is one of the most expensive decking materials available in NZ, which may make it less accessible to those on a tight budget.
Maintenance: Kwila decking requires regular staining and sealing to maintain its appearance and durability. Failure to do so can result in warping, splitting, and other issues.
Availability: While Kwila decking is a popular decking material, it may not be readily available in all areas. This can make it difficult to source and may result in higher costs.
Safety: Kwila decking can become very hot in direct sunlight, which can make it uncomfortable to walk on in bare feet. It is recommended to use a heat-reflective coating to mitigate this issue.
Overall, Kwila decking is a high-quality and attractive option for outdoor decking. While it may come with a higher price tag and maintenance requirements, it offers excellent durability and longevity that can make it a good investment in the long run. As with any decking material, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
This elevation of the deck shows a beautiful Kwila Deck which contrasts beautifully with the off white walls, and columns of the house.
Macrocarpa
Macrocarpa is a softwood that is native to New Zealand. It has a warm, honey-brown color and a distinctive grain pattern. Macrocarpa is a durable and stable timber that is well-suited for outdoor use. It is also one of the more affordable options, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is a relatively new material that has gained popularity in recent years. It is made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic, which gives it the look and feel of real wood while providing added durability and resistance to the elements. Composite decking comes in a variety of colors and textures, and it requires very little maintenance.
PVC Decking
PVC decking is a synthetic material that is made from 100% plastic. It is highly resistant to moisture, rot, and insects, making it an ideal choice for coastal or humid areas. PVC decking comes in a variety of colors and patterns and requires very little maintenance. However, it is one of the more expensive options.
Aluminium Decking
Aluminium decking is a lightweight and durable option that is ideal for areas with high winds or heavy rainfall. It is also highly resistant to fire and insects, making it a safe and low-maintenance option. Aluminium decking comes in a variety of colors and finishes, but it is one of the more expensive options.
What Are the Costs of Different Types of Deck Materials?
The cost of building a deck can vary widely depending on the type of material used, the size and complexity of the deck, and other factors such as site preparation and labor costs. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with the different types of deck materials:
Pine decking: $200-$400 per square meter
Kwila decking: $500-$800 per square meter
Macrocarpa decking: $300-$500 per square meter
Composite decking: $300-$700 per square meter
PVC decking: $500-$1000 per square meter
Aluminium decking: $600-$1000 per square meter
It is important to note that these are ballpark figures and the actual cost may vary depending on various factors such as the complexity of the design, location, and quality of the material used.
Building a deck is a great way to enhance your outdoor living space and add value to your home. There are a variety of materials to choose from, each with its own advantages and costs. When deciding on a decking material, it is important to consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, aesthetics, and cost. The most popular decking materials in NZ include timber, composite, PVC, and aluminium. By weighing the pros and cons of each material, you can choose the best one for your needs and budget.
Fencing in NZ – What is the cost to add a Fence?
Are you planning to put up a fence around your property in New Zealand? While fencing can enhance the security, privacy, and aesthetic appeal of your home or business, it’s essential to understand the different types and styles of fencing available in the market and their corresponding cost of installation per metre in NZ.
In this article, we’ll discuss the cost of fencing per metre NZ, cost of fencing NZ, types of fencing NZ, and fencing styles NZ. Whether you’re looking to build a traditional picket fence, a modern glass fence, or a sturdy steel fence, you’ll find all the information you need in this comprehensive guide.
Types of Fencing NZ
Before we dive into the cost of fencing per metre NZ, let’s look at the different types of fencing available in the NZ market:
Timber Fencing
Timber fencing is a classic and affordable option for both residential and commercial properties. Timber fences come in various styles, including picket fences, paling fences, and ranch-style fences. Timber fences offer natural beauty, durability, and noise reduction, making them a popular choice among homeowners in NZ.
Project Spotlight: We created many landscaping areas for this home renovation to cater to the different needs of various family members in the household. The vegetable garden below was created so our client could grow fresh chilis. The vegetable garden has Timber fencing behind it as well as a retaining fencing. The vegetable garden runs around the perimeter of a concrete patio.
The vegetable garden surrounds the concrete patio with Timber fencing throughout.
Steel Fencing
Steel fencing is a sturdy and long-lasting option for properties that require high-security fencing. Steel fences come in different designs, such as vertical bars, mesh, and panel fencing, and offer excellent resistance against harsh weather conditions, pests, and intruders. Steel fencing requires minimal maintenance and can last for decades with proper care.
Alumininium Fencing in Mellons Bay which fences off the property from the cliff below.
Glass Fencing
Glass fencing is a modern and stylish option for properties that want to showcase their views or landscaping. Glass fences come in frameless or semi-frameless designs and offer an unobstructed view of the surrounding area. Glass fences are made of tempered glass that is durable and safe, making them ideal for pool areas and balconies. Glass fences require periodic cleaning to maintain their clarity and beauty.
Masonry Fencing
Masonry fencing is a high-end option for properties that require maximum privacy and noise reduction. Masonry fences are made of bricks, stones, or concrete and come in different styles, such as stacked stone, brick and iron, and stucco. Masonry fences offer exceptional durability and fire resistance, making them a popular choice among luxury homes and commercial buildings.
Fencing Styles NZ
Now that you understand the different types of fencing available let’s look at the popular fencing styles in NZ:
Picket Fencing
Picket fencing is a classic and charming style that complements any home style. Picket fences are made of timber or vinyl and come in different heights, shapes, and spacing. Picket fences offer excellent curb appeal, security, and noise reduction, making them a popular choice among residential properties.
Colorbond Fencing
Colorbond fencing is a modern and sleek style that offers excellent privacy and security. Colorbond fences are made of steel and come in various colours and designs. Colorbond fences are durable, weather-resistant, and require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for busy homeowners.
Chain Link Fencing
Chain link fencing is a cost-effective and versatile style that offers excellent visibility and security. Chain link fences are made of steel wire mesh and come in different heights and gauges. Chain link fences are easy to install, require minimal maintenance, and offer a long-lasting solution for both residential and commercial properties.
Glass Balustrades
Glass balustrades are a modern and elegant style that offers an unobstructed view and safety around balconies, decks, and pool areas.
Project Spotlight: The home seen below is a home that we are currently carrying out an Interior and Exterior Home renovation. The glass balustrades seen below are built throughout the property to create different sections within the outdoor landscaping. The Glass fencing divides the areas successfully without disrupting the continuity of the landscaping.
When there is a large outdoor space, it is often divided into sections which are used for different purposes instead of just having a large expanse without dividers. Using glass as a material still makes the space look impressive and large.
Cost of Fencing NZ
Timber Fencing in NZ
The cost of timber fencing per metre in NZ varies depending on the type of timber, height, and design. On average, expect to pay around:
$75-$120 per metre for a standard 1.8-metre-high paling fence
$120-$150 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high timber picket fence
$180-$200 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high ranch-style fence
Steel Fencing in NZ
The cost of steel fencing per metre in NZ depends on the type of steel, height, and design. On average, expect to pay around:
$220-$280 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high Colorbond fence
$280-$350 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high steel vertical bar fence
$350-$450 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high steel mesh fence
Glass Fencing in NZ
The cost of glass fencing per metre in NZ depends on the type of glass, height, and design. On average, expect to pay around:
$600-$800 per metre for a frameless glass fence
$400-$600 per metre for a semi-frameless glass fence
Masonry Fencing in NZ
The cost of masonry fencing per metre in NZ varies depending on the type of material, height, and design. On average, expect to pay around:
$500-$700 per metre for a stacked stone fence
$700-$900 per metre for a brick and iron fence
$900-$1200 per metre for a stucco fence
Cost of Fencing per Metre NZ
The cost of fencing per metre in NZ varies depending on the type of fencing, height, and design. On average, expect to pay:
$75-$120 per metre for a standard timber paling fence
$220-$280 per metre for a Colorbond fence
$600-$800 per metre for a frameless glass fence
$500-$700 per metre for a stacked stone fence
Types of Driveways and – How much do Driveways Cost?
A driveway is a private road for vehicles that connects a property to the main road. The type of driveway you choose can significantly affect the overall appearance of your property, as well as its functionality. There are several factors to consider when choosing a driveway, including the type of material, maintenance requirements, and cost.
Types of Driveways
Asphalt Driveways
Asphalt driveways are a popular choice in NZ due to their affordability and durability. They are made by mixing asphalt cement and aggregate, then laying the mixture and compacting it. Asphalt driveways are easy to maintain, repair, and can last up to 30 years with proper care.
Concrete Driveways
Concrete driveways are another popular option in NZ. They are made by pouring a mixture of cement, water, and aggregate onto a prepared surface, then smoothing and finishing it. Concrete driveways are long-lasting and can withstand heavy traffic, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.
Newly laid Concrete Driveway in this extensive Landscaping project in West Auckland.
Gravel Driveways
Gravel driveways are a cost-effective option for homeowners on a budget. They are made by spreading gravel over a prepared surface, then compacting it to create a stable base. Gravel driveways are easy to install, but they require regular maintenance to keep the surface level and prevent erosion.
Paver Driveways
Paver driveways are a stylish and durable option for homeowners who want to add a unique touch to their property. They are made by laying interlocking concrete or brick pavers over a prepared surface, then filling the gaps with sand. Paver driveways are easy to maintain and can last up to 20 years with proper care.
Paver Driveway was built in this home renovation in Epsom
Factors Affecting the Cost of Driveways
The cost of a driveway can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
Type of material
Size of the driveway
Complexity of the design
Labour costs
Location of the property
Cost of Driveways in NZ
Asphalt Driveway Cost
The cost of an asphalt driveway in NZ can range from $50 to $100 per square meter, depending on the size and complexity of the design.
Concrete Driveway Cost
The cost of a concrete driveway in NZ can range from $75 to $150 per square meter, depending on the size and complexity of the design.
Gravel Driveway Cost
The cost of a gravel driveway in NZ can range from $20 to $60 per square meter, depending on the size and thickness of the gravel.
Paver Driveway Cost
The cost of a paver driveway in NZ can range from $100 to $200 per square meter, depending on the type of paver and the complexity
Project Spotlight: We mostly renovated the interiors of this home but this home is a great example of good landscaping design. In this particular picture you can see a paved driveway that is structured to built in a way that it adds to the overall aesthetic of the home.
When it comes to choosing the material for your driveway, concrete is a popular option. Concrete driveways offer a range of benefits, including durability, low maintenance, and versatility in design. However, there are also some drawbacks to using concrete. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of concrete driveways, as well as the costs associated with them.
4 Advantages of Concrete Driveways
Durability
One of the biggest advantages of concrete driveways is their durability. Concrete is a very strong and long-lasting material, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like driveways. It can withstand heavy loads, including vehicles, without cracking or breaking.
Low Maintenance
Concrete driveways are also very low maintenance. They don’t require regular sealing or resurfacing like other materials such as asphalt. This can save homeowners time and money in the long run.
Versatility in Design
Concrete driveways come in a range of designs, from stamped and colored to exposed aggregate. This allows homeowners to choose a design that complements the style of their home and personal taste.
Increases Property Value
Installing a concrete driveway can also increase the value of your property. Concrete is a desirable material that is often sought after by potential homebuyers.
3 Disadvantages of Concrete Driveways
Cracks and Stains
One of the biggest drawbacks of concrete driveways is that they can crack over time. This is especially true in areas with extreme temperature changes. Additionally, concrete driveways can be prone to stains from oil and other substances, which can be difficult to remove.
Limited Color Options
While concrete driveways come in a range of designs, color options are somewhat limited. Concrete is typically gray, and while it can be colored, the options are not as extensive as other materials like pavers.
Cost
One of the biggest disadvantages of concrete driveways is the cost. Concrete is more expensive than other materials like asphalt and gravel. However, the durability and low maintenance costs can make up for the initial expense in the long run.
Factors Affecting Cost
The cost of a concrete driveway can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the driveway, the design, and the location. Additional factors that can affect the cost include the preparation of the site, excavation, and labor costs.
Average Cost per Square Foot
On average, the cost of a concrete driveway is between $4 and $15 per square foot. This means that for a 1,000 square foot driveway, homeowners can expect to pay between $4,000 and $15,000.
Concrete driveways are a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable and long-lasting option. While they have some drawbacks, such as the potential for cracking and limited color options, the benefits of concrete driveways, including their durability and low maintenance, make them a worthwhile investment. Additionally, while the cost of a concrete driveway may be higher than other materials like asphalt, the long-term savings can make up for the initial expense.
Project Spotlight: The project below was mentioned earlier in this article, this picture below shows the paved concrete driveway, and a fenced lawn on the side of the home.
Concrete Driveway and a fenced side garden in this landscaping project in West Harbour, Auckland
Gravel Driveway
Gravel driveways are a popular choice for homeowners because they are durable, cost-effective, and can complement any home’s style. However, the cost and installation process can be confusing, and there are several factors to consider when choosing the right gravel for your driveway. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about gravel driveway cost and installation.
Types of Gravel
Before we dive into the cost and installation, let’s first understand the different types of gravel available for driveways. The most common types are:
Crushed Stone: This is a versatile and durable option that can be used for any driveway size. It comes in different sizes and colors, making it easy to customize the look of your driveway.
Pea Gravel: This is a smaller, rounded option that can be used for decorative purposes or as a top layer for a larger stone. It is not as durable as crushed stone and may require more maintenance over time.
River Rock: This is a larger, smooth option that is often used for decorative purposes. It can be more expensive than crushed stone or pea gravel and may not be suitable for high-traffic areas.
Factors Affecting Gravel Driveway Cost
The cost of installing a gravel driveway can vary depending on several factors, such as:
Size: The larger the driveway, the more material and labor will be required, which will increase the cost.
Type of Gravel: As mentioned above, different types of gravel have varying costs.
Depth: The deeper the gravel, the more material will be required, which will increase the cost.
Location: The cost of labor and materials can vary depending on your location.
Gravel Driveway Installation Process
The installation process for a gravel driveway involves several steps, such as:
Excavation: The area where the driveway will be installed is excavated to the desired depth.
Grading: The area is graded to ensure proper drainage and a level surface.
Base Layer: A base layer of crushed stone is added and compacted to provide a stable foundation for the driveway.
Gravel Layer: The chosen type of gravel is added and compacted to the desired depth.
Edging: Edging is added to keep the gravel contained and prevent it from spreading.
Cost of Gravel Driveway Installation
The cost of installing a gravel driveway can range from $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot, depending on the factors mentioned above. For example, a 100-foot driveway with a depth of 3 inches would require approximately 14 tons of gravel and cost between $2,100 and $5,600.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
While it may be tempting to save money by installing a gravel driveway yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional for several reasons:
Experience: A professional will have the experience and knowledge necessary to ensure proper installation and avoid costly mistakes.
Equipment: Installing a gravel driveway requires heavy equipment that may not be readily available to homeowners.
Warranty: Many professionals offer a warranty on their work, providing peace of mind and protection against any issues that may arise.
In conclusion, a gravel driveway can be a cost-effective and attractive option for homeowners. By understanding the types of gravel available, the factors that affect cost, and the installation process, you can make an informed decision on whether a gravel driveway is right for you. If you do decide to install a gravel driveway, it is recommended to hire a professional for a stress-free and efficient installation process.
Outdoor Kitchens in NZ
Outdoor kitchens have become a popular addition to many homes in New Zealand. These outdoor kitchens are typically built in the backyard or on the patio and feature various cooking appliances such as grills, cooktops, sinks, and refrigerators. They can be as simple or elaborate as the homeowner desires, depending on their budget and needs.
The cost of building an outdoor kitchen can vary greatly depending on the size, design, and materials used. A basic outdoor kitchen with a grill, countertop, and sink can cost around $5,000 to $10,000. However, for a more elaborate outdoor kitchen with high-end appliances and custom-built features, the cost can easily exceed $20,000 or more.
Project Spotlight: This renovation in Redvale shows how a well designed landscaping or outdoor renovation can improve your quality of life and extend the livable space of your home. The home below shows an area divided into three parts with one for outdoor cooking, dining area and a lounging area. In the background you can see lush lawn laid out providing a beautiful backdrop. See Full project specifications + Pictures
Some of the factors that can influence the cost of an outdoor kitchen include:
Size and complexity of the design
Materials used for construction (e.g. stone, brick, concrete)
Appliances and features included (e.g. grill, sink, refrigerator, pizza oven, storage)
How much does it Cost to Create a Lawn in your home?
The cost of laying different types of grass in NZ for residential homes can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of grass, the size of the area to be covered, and the amount of preparation work required. Here is a breakdown of the costs for some popular types of grass:
1. Seed grass
Seed grass is the most affordable option for residential homes, with an average cost of $0.30 to $0.70 per square foot. However, it requires more time and maintenance to establish a lush and healthy lawn. Seed grass may also be less resistant to pests and disease compared to other types of grass.
A simple lawn for our clients to spend some time amongst nature
2. Sod grass
Sod grass is a more expensive option compared to seed grass, with an average cost of $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot. However, it provides an instant lawn and requires less time and effort to establish. Sod grass is also more resistant to pests and disease compared to seed grass.
3. Artificial Grass
Artificial grass is a low-maintenance and long-lasting option that can mimic the look and feel of natural grass. The cost of artificial grass can range from $5.00 to $15.00 per square foot, depending on the quality and type of grass. While it may have a higher upfront cost, it can save on maintenance costs and water bills in the long run.
Landscaping around the house with quaint pathways and surrounding greenery in Epsom, Auckland
This lawn can be seen in one of the houses we are currently renovating in Remuera
4. Hydroseed grass
Hydroseed grass is a mixture of grass seed, water, and other additives that are sprayed onto the ground to establish a lawn. It is a more affordable option compared to sod grass, with an average cost of $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot. Hydroseed grass requires less time and effort to establish than seed grass, but may require more maintenance in the long run.
It’s important to note that the above costs are just estimates and may vary depending on your specific location, the quality of materials used, and other factors.
We created pathways throughout the outdoor landscape to connect different parts of the landscaping with each other. These outdoor tiles lay in a bed of gravel and are fenced of with Timber fencing.
We created pathways around the house to get from one section of the exterior to another. This pathway leads from the front garden to the back of the house where we created a vegetable garden and patio
It is recommended to consult with a professional landscaper to get a more accurate quote for your specific needs and budget.In conclusion, the cost of laying different types of grass in NZ for residential homes can vary widely depending on the type of grass, the size of the area to be covered, and other factors. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Why Outdoor Lighting is Crucial for Home Renovation in New Zealand
While indoor lighting is essential, outdoor lighting is equally crucial for creating a beautiful and safe environment for you and your family. From enhancing curb appeal to increasing safety, there are many reasons why outdoor lighting should be an integral part of your home renovation plans. In this article, we will explore why outdoor lighting is important when creating and renovating your outdoor space in New Zealand.
1. Increases Safety
Outdoor lighting provides safety and security to your home by illuminating the outdoor spaces, making it more difficult for burglars and intruders to enter your property unnoticed. Lighting up the pathways, driveway, and entrances with motion-activated lights or spotlights will keep your home safer and deter potential criminals.
2. Enhances Curb Appeal
Outdoor lighting can add to the beauty and charm of your home, making it stand out and adding to its curb appeal. Proper lighting enhances the beauty of your garden, highlighting its unique features such as trees, flowers, and hedges. It can also add a dramatic effect to your home’s architecture, making it look more attractive at night.
3. Increases Functionality
Outdoor lighting can also increase the functionality of your outdoor living spaces. It allows you to utilize the outdoor space even after the sun goes down. You can entertain guests, read a book, or just relax outside in the evenings without worrying about the lack of light.
4. Adds Value to Your Home
Adding outdoor lighting to your home can increase its value. Potential buyers are attracted to homes that have beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. Outdoor lighting can enhance the overall appeal of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing its resale value.
5. Saves Energy and Money
Installing energy-efficient outdoor lighting can help you save money on electricity bills. LED lights are a great option as they are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. Also, installing solar-powered lights can help you save even more money in the long run.
6. Provides Ambiance
Outdoor lighting can create a cozy and inviting ambiance for your outdoor space. It can transform your backyard into an intimate setting where you can relax and spend quality time with your loved ones. You can choose from a variety of outdoor lighting options, such as string lights, lanterns, and accent lights, to create the perfect ambiance for your outdoor space.
7. Improves Navigation
Outdoor lighting provides better visibility and improves navigation around your outdoor space. It can be challenging to navigate around your yard at night, especially if you have uneven terrain or steps. Installing outdoor lighting ensures that you and your guests can move around safely, avoiding any tripping hazards.
8. Highlights Landscape Features
Outdoor lighting can highlight the unique features of your landscape, such as fountains, sculptures, and water features. It creates a beautiful and dramatic effect, drawing attention to the distinctive elements of your outdoor space.
9. Adds Personalization
Outdoor lighting can help you personalize your outdoor space according to your preferences. You can choose the type of lighting that best suits your needs and add a personal touch to your outdoor living areas. It allows you to create a space that reflects your personality and style.
10. Complements Architecture
Outdoor lighting can complement the architectural design of your home, enhancing its beauty and appeal. It can also help balance the visual weight of your home, highlighting certain areas and creating a harmonious look.In conclusion, outdoor lighting is an essential element to consider when renovating your outdoor space in New Zealand. It not only increases safety and security but also enhances the overall beauty, functionality, and value of
9 Steps to create a functional design in terms of lighting for your outdoor landscaping
Creating a functional design for your outdoor lighting can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to landscaping and living areas in NZ homes. However, with careful planning and consideration, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that meets your specific needs. In this article, we will discuss some tips for creating a functional lighting design for your outdoor landscaping and living in NZ homes.
1. Identify the Purpose of Your Outdoor Space
Before you start designing your outdoor lighting, it’s essential to identify the purpose of your outdoor space. Do you want to create an area for entertainment, relaxation, or a play area for your kids? Identifying the purpose of your outdoor space will help you determine the type of lighting that you need and where it should be placed.
2. Determine the Type of Lighting
There are various types of outdoor lighting available, and each serves a different purpose. Some of the most common types of outdoor lighting include floodlights, accent lights, path lights, and decorative lights. Floodlights are perfect for illuminating large areas, while accent lights are ideal for highlighting specific features such as trees or sculptures. Path lights are great for illuminating walkways, and decorative lights add a touch of charm and personality to your outdoor space.
3. Consider the Landscape Features
It’s essential to consider the landscape features of your outdoor space when designing your lighting. Consider the location of trees, shrubs, and other landscape features that you want to highlight. If you have a water feature, such as a pond or waterfall, you can use underwater lights to create a beautiful and dramatic effect.
4. Plan the Lighting Layout
Once you have identified the purpose of your outdoor space, determined the type of lighting, and considered the landscape features, you can start planning the lighting layout. Start by creating a sketch of your outdoor space and indicate where you want to place the lights. Consider the height and angle of each light to ensure that they illuminate the desired areas effectively.
5. Use Layers of Lighting
Using layers of lighting can help create a functional and visually appealing outdoor space. Layering your lighting means using a combination of different types of lights at different heights and angles. For example, you can use path lights to illuminate walkways, floodlights to light up large areas, and accent lights to highlight landscape features. By using layers of lighting, you can create a more dynamic and functional outdoor space.
6. Choose Energy-Efficient Lighting
Choosing energy-efficient lighting is not only better for the environment but can also save you money in the long run. LED lights are a great option as they are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. Solar-powered lights are also an excellent option as they use renewable energy and do not require any wiring.In conclusion, creating a functional lighting design for your outdoor landscaping and living in NZ homes requires careful planning and consideration. By identifying the purpose of your outdoor space, determining the type of lighting, considering the landscape features, planning the lighting layout, using layers of lighting, and choosing energy-efficient lighting, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that meets your specific needs.
7. Focus on Safety
When designing your outdoor lighting, safety should be a top priority. Make sure that your lighting layout illuminates all pathways, steps, and entrances to your home to prevent accidents. Also, consider installing motion-activated lights for added security.
8. Use Timers and Smart Lighting
Using timers and smart lighting can make your outdoor space more functional and convenient. Timers can be set to turn on and off your lights automatically, which is useful for security and convenience. Smart lighting, on the other hand, can be controlled remotely through a mobile device, allowing you to turn your lights on and off from anywhere.
9. Consider the Aesthetics
The aesthetics of your outdoor lighting are just as important as its functionality. Choose lights that complement the design and style of your home and outdoor space. Consider the color, shape, and materials of your lights to ensure that they blend well with the overall aesthetic of your outdoor area.
What is a louvered pergola, and how does it differ from a traditional pergola?
A louvered pergola is a pergola with adjustable louvers that allow for flexible shading and ventilation. Unlike a traditional pergola, a louvered pergola can be adjusted to provide shade or sunlight as needed.
What are the benefits of choosing a louvered pergola over a traditional pergola?
A louvered pergola offers greater flexibility for shading and ventilation, making it a more versatile outdoor space. It also requires minimal maintenance and is made from durable materials that can withstand weather conditions.
How much does it cost to build a pergola in New Zealand?
The cost of building a pergola in New Zealand varies depending on the size, materials, and accessories you choose. A louvered pergola can be a cost-effective solution that provides a luxurious and stylish outdoor space.
Can I install a louvered pergola myself, or do I need to hire a professional?
You can install a louvered pergola yourself if you're comfortable with DIY building. However, if you're not confident in your skills, it's best to hire a professional builder to ensure that your pergola is safe and sturdy.
How do I maintain and care for my pergola?
To ensure that your pergola lasts for years to come, you should perform regular maintenance and care, including cleaning the pergola, inspecting for damage, and repairing any issues promptly. A louvered pergola requires minimal maintenance, as the materials used are durable and resistant to weather conditions.
How high can a fence be in NZ?
The maximum height for a fence in a residential area is 2.5 metres, but it may vary depending on the local council's regulations.
Do I need a building consent for a fence in NZ?
You may need a building consent for a fence that is over 2 metres high or if it is on a retaining wall.
How long does it take to install a fence in NZ?
The time it takes to install a fence in NZ varies depending on the size, type, and complexity of the fence. On average, expect to wait 1-3 weeks for the installation to be completed.
Can I install a fence myself in NZ?
Yes, you can install a fence yourself in NZ, but you may need to obtain a building consent and follow the local council's regulations
How do I maintain my fence in NZ?
The maintenance requirements for your fence in NZ depend on the type of fencing. Generally, you should clean your fence periodically, repair any damages, and repaint or re-stain as needed
How do I choose the right fencing for my property in NZ?
When choosing the right fencing for your property in NZ, consider factors such as security, privacy, aesthetic appeal, maintenance requirements, and budget.
How long does a concrete driveway last?
Concrete driveways can last up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance and care
Can I add color to my concrete driveway?
Yes, it is possible to add color to a concrete driveway using a range of methods, including integral color, acid staining, and dyes
How can I prevent my concrete driveway from cracking?
To prevent cracking, it's important to ensure that the site is properly prepared before pouring the concrete. Additionally, regular sealing and maintenance can help to prevent cracks from forming.
How long does it take to install a concrete driveway?
The installation time for a concrete driveway can vary depending on the size of the driveway and the weather conditions. On average, it can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more to install a concrete driveway.
Can I install a concrete driveway myself?
While it is possible to install a concrete driveway yourself, it's important to have the proper knowledge, tools, and experience to do so. It's often best to hire a professional contractor to ensure that the driveway is installed properly.
What are some popular outdoor features to include in home renovations?
Popular outdoor features include patios, decks, outdoor kitchens, water features, and outdoor lighting.
How can outdoor landscaping improve my health and well-being?
Spending time in nature has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reduced stress and improved mood.
How can I ensure that my outdoor landscaping is sustainable?
Work with a landscape designer to select plants and materials that are appropriate for your climate and plan for regular maintenance and irrigation to reduce water waste.
How can outdoor landscaping increase the value of my property?
Well-designed outdoor living spaces are highly sought after by homebuyers and can help you command a higher sale price when it's time to sell
Should I work with a professional for my outdoor landscaping project?
Working with a professional can help ensure that your outdoor spaces are both beautiful and functional, while also saving you time and money in the long run.
Which is the most affordable decking material?
Pine and Macrocarpa are the most affordable decking materials in NZ.
Which decking material is the most durable?
PVC and Aluminium decking are the most durable decking materials.
Is composite decking better than timber decking?
Composite decking has several advantages over timber decking, including lower maintenance requirements and increased durability.
What is the best decking material for coastal areas?
PVC and Aluminium decking are highly resistant to moisture and insects, making them ideal for coastal areas.
Can I install a deck myself?
Yes, it is possible to install a deck yourself if you have the necessary skills and tools. However, it is recommended to hire a professional to ensure that the deck is installed correctly and safely.
How much does it cost to maintain a deck?
The cost of maintaining a deck can vary depending on the type of material used and the level of maintenance required. Timber decking requires regular staining and sealing to prevent rot and decay, while composite and PVC decking require minimal maintenance.
Need more information?
Take advantage of our FREE Complete Home Renovation Guide (48 pages), whether you’re already renovating or in the process of deciding to renovate, it’s not an easy process, this guide which includes a free 100+ point check list – will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
Have you been putting off getting renovations done?
We have partnered with Q Mastercard ® to provide you an 18 Month Interest-Free Payment Option, you can enjoy your new home now and stress less.Learn More about Interest-Free Payment Options**Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
The exterior curb of any home depicts the unique aesthetic taste of the residents. Nowadays, instead of having a backyard, people are more into having nice decks and patios.So are you planning on building a new deck? Are you searching for the price estimate to evaluate how much does it cost you to hire deck builder Auckland based?
Well, the team of Superior Renovations has come up with 5 significant factors that impact a deck building project in Auckland.
RULES & REGULATIONS FOR DECK BUILDING
If you are planning of having a balcony or a deck about 1.5 meters above the ground, you will need the permission. The rules and regulations about deck building are very strict, and one has to consider them before taking on any deck building endeavour.
The essential matter in deck building is the timber decay issue. While building your new deck, you have to design and build it with great care to avoid water trapping and timber decay. Mostly, water leaks through the cladding and thus causes the early corrosion or decay of timber. So proper maintenance is essential if you are thinking about having your deck above the ground.
Here are some of the guidelines
If your deck is up to 1.5 meters in height from the ground, you don’t need any kind of consent for its build-up process. However, if you are building a deck more than 1.5 meters above, you require permission.
Any fence which is 1 meter above the ground and possesses the risk of falling requires fence or barrier, so you will require resource permission for that too.
If you are thinking about having attached decking, Auckland Building Department recommends a gap of 12mm behind the ribbon plate to avoid moisture retention and mildew development.
Along with the ones mentioned above, the deck-building also requires to meet other structural and building requirements.
What the law says
Subject to section 42A of the Building Act, Schedule 1 exempts the following from a building consent:
Building work in connection with a deck, platform, bridge, boardwalk, or the like from which it is not possible to fall more than 1.5 metres even if it collapses. (https://building.govt.nz, 2019)
If you plan to build a deck that is up to 1.5m high, you don’t need a building consent but you may still need a resource consent, depending on the rules in the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan. If your deck is more than 1m high, it must have a handrail. (https://aucklandcouncil.govt.nz, 2019)
In New Zealand, whether you need consent to extend your deck will depend on the specific circumstances of your property and the proposed deck extension.
If the deck extension will be less than 1.5 meters above ground level, and the deck is not going to be attached to a house or building, it is likely that you will not need consent to build it. However, if the deck is going to be attached to a house or building, or the extension will be more than 1.5 meters above ground level, you will likely need to get a building consent from your local council.
Additionally, you may need to comply with local zoning regulations, and restrictions regarding the placement of the deck, and the materials used. It is best to check with your local council for specific requirements and regulations before proceeding with any deck extension. It’s always advisable to seek advice from a building professional and obtain necessary consents before extending the deck.
HOW MUCH WILL MY DECK COST?
How much I need to spend on building a deck? Probably one of the most common questions when it comes to deck building. However, the cost of any deck build-up process depends entirely on the design and structural complexities it involves.
Although the decking based services vary when it comes to pricing particularly in Auckland, the standard cost estimate for a 1-meter high deck is as follows:
For a 90 mm wide pine decking, you might get charged up to $470+ per square metre. However, the other factors that affect the cost of deck building include:
Site condition
Soil type
Deck’s height
Accessories required
Other costs including permits, demolition, seating, cladding and stairs building.
CAN YOU REMOVE MY OLD DECKING AND RELAY NEW DECKING?
The decks are made of wood, and they have a specific lifespan. Although you can enhance their lifespan with proper maintenance and care. But once they started rotting, you would have to replace the whole structure.
If you are worrying about whether your deck needs replacement or not just check out the following signs or symptoms.
Check for any decay or mould development:
The first step is to check for any rotting or decay in the deck area as well as in the stairs, fencing or any other part of the deck. You can use a screwdriver to check the condition of the wood. If the screwdriver penetrates the wood easily, then it is time to get a new deck.
Check for loose parts:
Check the entire deck for the loose parts and to undergo inspection regarding the damage.
If your deck has completed its lifespan, then make no further delays and ask a professional deck builders Auckland based to build a new deck for you.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PINE AND KWILA DECKING?
The decks could be of any shape, size or material, but the two most common types of the deck are softwood and hardwood.
Pinewood (softwood):
A highly reliable and easily available decking wood option, pine offers the decks more longevity. This pinewood is the most commonly used decking material. However, pine wood contains chemical preservatives and can be easily bent and wraps, thus causing serious health and construction issues.
Kwila (hardwood):
Kwila wood is known for its durability and great looks. Due to its durability, it has been the primary choice for decks in Auckland.
Kwila, also known as Merbau, is a durable and strong wood that is commonly used for decking. However, it should be noted that Kwila is a tropical hardwood that is imported, which may have negative environmental impacts. It is also important to ensure that the Kwila is legally and sustainably sourced. Additionally, Kwila is naturally resistant to decay and insects, but it can still be affected by rot if not properly sealed and maintained. Regular cleaning, staining, and sealing will help prolong the life of a Kwila deck. It is also important to note that Kwila is a dense hardwood which may be harder to work with than other woods, it is also known to cause allergic reactions in some people.
DO I ENGAGE A BUILDER AND/OR PROJECT MANAGER?
If you are thinking of having a deck, then opt for a professional deck building service provider. If you are confused about whether or not hire a project manager for a decking project, then here are some of the perks associated with hiring professionals:
Quality work with extreme professionalism
Schedule tracking for completion of the project on time
The budget and cost estimates will be accurate
The project will be built according to construction guideline and codes
Little to no conflict regarding ideas and material requirements.
THINKING OF BUILDING THE DECK YOURSELF?
Materials required for deck building.
Here are the few materials that you might require for building a deck from scratch:
5×4-inch decking lumber
Fiberboard pier form
2×8 pressure-treated lumber for the joists
2×10 pressure-treated lumber for the ledger, beams and rim joists
Concrete
Plastic footing form
Polyurethane marine sealant
Ledger fasteners lag screws and/or carriage bolts
Post bases
Face-mounted joist hangers
Siliconized acrylic caulk
Masonry expansion bolts to fasten post bases to concrete piers
Metal flashing
Construction adhesive
8d galvanized or stainless steel finish nails
6d, 12d, and 16d galvanized or stainless steel common nails
Self-adhering waterproof membrane
5/8-inch roofing nails
Concealed-flange and face-mounted double joist hangers and hanger nails.
Tools needed for building a simple deck
For the construction of the durable deck, you will require the following mentioned below tools including:
Hammer drill
Masonry bit
Drill driver
Drill – 1/2-inch
3/8-inch drill bit
Ratchet wrench and sockets
Circular saw
Chalk line
Concrete mixer
Hammer
Impact wrench
Shovel
30-foot tape measure
Tape measure
Utility knife
What Do I Need To Know Before Constructing A Deck?
Before moving ahead with your construction, you have first to address certain things to come up with a better idea about the type of deck you need.
Usage:
The most common question while building a new deck is how you are going to use it? Whether you need a deck for private sitting or requires for a large space for dinners and parties? Do you have children, or do you want extra protection on your deck?
Area assessment:
Next comes the area assessment as in which part of your house you want your deck to be. The area selection is crucial as it involves the consideration regarding your underground structures, location and many more.
Size of the deck:
The size of the deck depends on various factors including your usage, amount of furniture required and type of activities you are planning on doing on your deck.
So How Much Does It Cost To Build A Deck According To Type And Area Required?
We have mentioned a pricing estimate for building a deck all by yourself excluding the labour, accessories, bearers, joists or piles.
Timber Decks:
Pine 140×32 – $50/m2 incl GST
Kwila 140×19 – $89/m2 incl GST
Vitex 140×19 – $105/m2 incl GST
Garapa 140×19 – $104/m2 incl GST
Iroko 140×19 – $112/m2 incl GST
Composite:
Outdure 138×23 – $103/m2 incl GST
Millboard 176×32 – $210/m2 incl GST (and this was a good deal)
The cost-estimation mentioned above points out why the people opt for pinewood decks as compared to Kwila wood. The pinewood decks are affordable and easily available, making them budget-friendly. However, now the trend is making a shift and people are more willing to spend for durability, style and looks. So, nowadays we are witnessing a shift towards Kwila wood decks.
How much does it cost to build a deck with Kwila?
The cost of building a deck with Kwila in New Zealand can vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the deck, the complexity of the design, and the location. However, on average, the cost of building a deck with Kwila can range from around $200 to $300 per square meter. This cost includes the cost of materials and labor. It is important to note that this is an approximate estimate and the actual cost may vary. It would be best to get a quote from a local builder or contractor for a more accurate cost estimate.
How much does it cost to build a deck with Pine?
The cost of building a deck with Pine in New Zealand can vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the deck, the complexity of the design, and the location. However, on average, the cost of building a deck with Pine can range from around $150 to $250 per square meter. This cost includes the cost of materials and labor. Pine is a cheaper alternative than Kwila. However, it is important to note that this is an approximate estimate and the actual cost may vary. It would be best to get a quote from a local builder or contractor for a more accurate cost estimate. Additionally, Pine is not as durable as Kwila, so it may require more maintenance over time.
So, How Much Do I Have To Pay For Having A Deck At My House?
Well, if you are looking for a generic ballpark figure, then an uncovered deck will cost you about $300/m2. However, if you want to add some facilities including a gazebo, veranda or pergola, then the cost estimate would be $600/m2 including GST for deck covering.
We hope that this price or cost-estimate will assist you in making up your mind regarding what type of deck you need and how much cost has to bear. However, these estimate might vary depending on your specific requirements regarding the use of material, space, size and height of the deck. The cost-estimate is only there to let you get your head in the right direction with your demands and budget requirements.
Please note:Whilst all information is considered to be true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information. The information may change without notice and Superior Renovations is not in any way liable for the accuracy of any information printed and stored or in any way interpreted and used by a user.
At Superior Renovations, full project management is what we do. We partner with select architects, engineers and professional builders to create deck you’ve been envisioning.
Questions to ask your builder when building a deck
When building a deck in New Zealand, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the project scope and to work with a reputable builder. Here are a few questions to consider asking your builder:
Can you provide references or examples of previous deck building projects you have completed?
Are you qualified to build decks in New Zealand?
What materials do you recommend for my deck and why?
How will you handle any necessary permits or building consent applications if required?
How will you ensure that the deck is built to comply with local building codes and safety regulations?
How will you handle any unexpected challenges that may arise during the construction process?
What is your estimated timeline for completion of the project?
How will you handle any changes or modifications to the project scope?
How do you handle payment and what is the payment schedule?
What is your guarantee policy?
Asking these questions can help ensure that you have a clear understanding of the project and that your builder is reliable, knowledgeable and professional.
Quick recap
Do I need to apply for consent for building a deck?
If your deck is up to 1.5 meters in height from the ground, you don’t need any kind of consent for its build-up process. However, if you are building a deck more than 1.5 meters above, you require permission.
How much does it cost to build a deck in NZ?
Well, if you are looking for a generic ballpark figure, then an uncovered deck will cost you about $300/m2. However, if you want to add some facilities including a gazebo, veranda or pergola, then the cost estimate would be $600/m2 including GST for deck covering.
Do I engage a builder or a project manager?
If you are confused about whether or not hire a project manager for a decking project, then here are some of the perks associated with hiring professionals: • Quality work with extreme professionalism • Schedule tracking for completion of the project on time • The budget and cost estimates will be accurate
Can I remove my old decking and relay new decking?
The decks are made of wood, and they have a specific lifespan. Although you can enhance their lifespan with proper maintenance and care. But once they started rotting, you would have to replace the whole structure.
Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
Looking after your home is an investment. From home recladding to double glazing windows to renovating spaces to upgrade it towards your living needs. To ensure your home will last for decades, you’d also want to ensure your roof is in good condition.
Before you start looking at companies to help you out. You’d want to ensure you have a rough estimate of how much roofing cost per square metre NZ is and find out roof replacement cost NZ. The cost to reroof a house NZ will be different from the cost of new roof NZ.
Are You Curious about the Cost of Reroofing?
Try our Reroofing Cost Calculator tool: There are several factors to consider when calculating the cost of reroofing, including the size and complexity of the roof, the type of roofing material, the cost of labor, and any permits or fees required by your city. To get a better idea of the cost of reroofing your home, use the Reroofing Cost Calculator below.
What is reroofing? How is it different from getting your roof repaired? The term ‘re-roofing’ describes the procedure of removing the old roof covering. Fixing any damage substrate (which may involve rebuilding roof trusses and support battens or purlins). Replacing underlay, and then putting up a new roof covering.
When you replace your roof, you may also be addressing any underlying problems. Such as rot or water damage to the ceiling, walls, and roof structure. The best approach to avoid harm to the internal structure of your home and the pricey repairs that will follow is to replace your roof and look at roof replacement costs NZ and how much roof cost per m2 is.
It should come as no surprise that getting a roof restoration rather than a full roof replacement can save you time and money. Whenever they work on a roof, roofing professionals will cover any worn shingles with a fresh layer of shingles. This not only enhances the look of your roof but also provides a barrier against leaks.
Reroofing a house | Photo Credit – iStock
What is Roof Replacement?
Roof replacement of your roof is always an option, but issues with your roof deck make it much more necessary. Roofing companies will need to remove all the existing shingles from the roof to expose the roof deck. After that, they will put in fresh felt or underlayment. New shingles will be used to cover the roof deck protecting it for at least 20 years.
In contrast to reroofing, which merely covers up any damage. This will fix all the issues you have with your roof. Your roofing contractor will need to repair your roof deck if it has significant damage to stop further damage. Though holes underneath, water can seep into the walls and harm the drywall and flooring. While cost of new roof NZ will be more expensive than cost to reroof a house NZ, the end results would be well worth it in the end.
Cost of new roof NZ repairs for this kind of damage may be very costly. Therefore, even though replacing your roof is an expensive project, it will end up saving you money in the long run. This is because it enables you to spot early indications of dropping and rot brought on by water damage to the deck. Therefore, a complete roof replacement can fix all your roof leaks.
What Is The Difference Between Reroof and Roof Replacement?
One of the most important maintenance decisions a homeowner must make is whether to fix a leaky roof or replace. The cost to reroof a house NZ or cost of new roof NZ against the cost of roof replacement. Along with the expected lifespan of the roof, are typically the deciding factors.
In its lifetime, a house may only require two complete roof replacement. During which the entire roof is removed and reroof with new roofing materials/cladding. Ensure you pick the right choice to save you some money as roofing costs per square metre NZ can be costly.
A modern roof with a localised leak is typically a suitable candidate for repair. If any rot or other damage to the substrate is discovered. It might soon grow to be a much bigger problem than it was initially. Getting the expert advice of a roof replacement expert will typically help you prevent any surprises. If your roof has required several repairs over the years. It may be time for a complete roof replacement and start looking at roof costs per square metre NZ.
How to Decide Between Reroof and Roof Replacement?
Normally, roofs with small leaks or damages make suitable candidates for reroof. Additionally, if there is only one layer of shingles, reroofing is an alternative. On the other hand, you might want to avoid reroofing small parts because this could leave your roof looking noticeable uneven.
Roofing professionals will need to repair your roof deck if it has sustained significant water damage, has a lot of mildew or mould development, or is dropping. You will therefore require a complete roof replacement and consider looking at roof cost per m2.
If you want the solid peace of mind that come from knowing that your roof will survive for 20 years or more. A complete roof refurbishment can also be your best option. This is because roofing specialists will be able to look for significant damage indications and fix them. Giving you the strongest and most durable roof imaginable. This reduces the possibility of damage going undetected until it is too late, which can happen when reroofing.
Reroofing is an option if your roof only has one layer of shingles on it. On the other hand, due to building requirements. Roof restoration is prohibited when there are already two layers of shingles in place. You would require a complete roof replacement in this situation. If your roof’s materials and pitch are additional criteria that may rule out reroofing and have you looking at roof replacement cost NZ. If your roof has significant water damage, wet shingles, or missing shingles, reroofing is not an option either. Lastly, a reroof often has a shorter lifespan than a roof replacement and roof cost per m2 can be more expensive.
Broken Roof. Most likely need a roof replacement | Photo Credit – iStock
How much does it typically cost to reroof a house in NZ? After all, the roof is one of your home’s most crucial components, so you probably attach great importance to it despite knowing that it can be expensive. Cost to reroof a house NZ is a difficult task because so many variables can change the estimate that roofing companies give.
The cost to reroof a house NZ can vary depending on the roofing material you select. While tiles typically range from $49 to $56 per m2, an architectural long run roof can cost up to $150 per m2. Asphalt roofing costs between $100 and $120 per m2.
As there are many different materials you could use in your roofing materials. The cost will be different as some roofing materials cost more than other. With an average house that is roughly around 130 – 140 square metres, using metal tiles and long run iron roofing materials can cost around $55 per m2.
If you consider using steel roofing material, the roof cost per m2 for this material would roughly cost around $56 per m2. Compared to other roofing materials, steel roofing materials are lightweight and easier to install.
Another material to consider roofing costs per square metre NZ is metal roof tiles as the roof cost per m2 for this roof material is around $50 – $70 m2. You may be after this roof material if you’re after a more traditional look for your roof replacement.
Going into the slightly more expensive roof materials for your roof replacement cost NZ. Concrete tiles are a great choice and they’re highly durable and fire resistant. Cost of new roof NZ for concreate tiles would be around $75 per m2.
While clay tiles are on the high end and will cost more if you chose this material for your roof replacement the cost to reroof a house NZ can be expensive. Clay tiles are also durable and have high strength and when done properly, these tiles can last at least a century. roof cost per m2 for clay tiles would cost around $104 per m2.
Saving the best for last, but also the most expensive option you can get with roof materials. With all roof materials, there are benefits and disadvantages to all roof materials when you’re considering roof replacement. If you happen to choose copper tiles, the cost of new roof NZ would be around $190 per m2.
What are the common challenges with roof replacement?
Roof replacement can be a complex and challenging project, especially in New Zealand where the weather can be unpredictable. Some common challenges with roof replacement in New Zealand include:
Weather: New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable and can change quickly, which can make it difficult to schedule and complete a roof replacement project. High winds, heavy rain, and extreme temperatures can all make it difficult to work safely on a roof.
Access: Some roofs may be difficult to access, especially if they are steep or have limited space. This can make it difficult to remove the old roof and install the new one.
Age of the building: Older buildings may have structural issues or may not have been built to modern building codes, which can make it difficult to replace the roof.
Building materials: Some roofing materials, such as asbestos, can be difficult to remove safely and may require specialized equipment and trained professionals.
Budget: Replacing a roof can be a costly project, and it’s important to have a clear understanding of the cost before beginning the project.
Time: A full roof replacement can take a lot of time, and it’s important to have a clear understanding of the time frame before beginning the project.
It’s important to work with a reputable and experienced roofing contractor when undertaking a roof replacement project. They will be able to advise on the best approach and materials to use and will be able to manage the challenges that arise during the project.
What is Asbestos In Your Roof?
Whether a roof includes asbestos or not is arguable one of the most important elements that affect the price of a roof. This dangerous building material is found in thousands of residences across the country. Small fibres make up the naturally occurring material known as asbestos. These fibres are sturdy and incredibly resistant to chemicals, heat, fire, and water. In NZ, asbestos was imported and used extensively in a variety of construction related fields, particularly in the manufacture of residential and commercial roofing.
What to do if you have Asbestos in your Roof?
While asbestos is simple to recognise on its own, other elements found in roof tiles make identification more challenging. Asbestos containing roof tiles frequently have a white or grey colour, while many other tiles manufactured of safe materials also have these colours. Although just one in every twenty asbestos containing roof tiles has an identification mark, this is one way to tell whether your roof tiles are asbestos free. You may scientifically test your roof’s tiles to determine whether they contain asbestos.
Working with asbestos requires several safety precautions. Even though asbestos cement is low risk and removal does not require a license. We do advise asking a professional to remove any asbestos roof tiles rather than doing it yourself. Due to the enormous risk posed by the harmful fibres of asbestos. Roofing costs per square metre NZ can be tricky to calculate if professionals haven’t been able to look at the site.
Asbestos on roof | Photo Credit – iStock
Changing Roof Material
When it’s time to upgrade your roof, you might think about switching out the components. Nevertheless, upgrading to stale, tile, wood shakes, or metal can initially cost you more. They will last you a lot lonoger than asphalt shingles will. If you want it, they will also give your house a more unique appearance. It’s crucial to understand that not all building frameworks are strudy enough to handle these heavier roofing materials without some modifications. Roofing costs per square metre NZ will cost more for a full roof replacement but you’d never have to worry about it again.
Asphalt roofing has only been in the market for a few decades which makes it a relatively new product in the market. For more than a century, asphalt shingles come in two options you can pick from – organic or fibreglass. The base layer of organic shingles is composed of wastepaper, cellulose, or wood fibres that have been treated with asphalt before a top coating of asphalt is put. The base layer of fibreglass in fibreglass shingles is joined to the upper layer by a urea-formaldehyde resin. Roofing costs per square metre NZ can vary based on the size and you’d want to ensure you have the right environment for this material.
Asphalt shingles are a visually appealing option because they are available in a variety of hues and patterns. High fire resistance is a feature of solutions made of fibreglass, which are also both lon-lasting and low maintenance. However, there are various options for use in areas with heavier winds.
Like most things, asphalt tiles will deteriorate over time despite them being a tougher alternative. If you’re planning to purchase an older home. It’s best to verify the roof tiles don’t have asbestos in the tiles. This is due to the tiles looking their granule coating which could cause problems with water leakage. You’d might have to reroof and look at the roof cost per m2 for asphalt shingles.
Asphalt Shingles | Photo Credit – iStock
Clay/Concrete Tiles
In additional to being bug and fire resistant, clay tiles are also incredibly resilient. They are also recyclable at the end of their life cycle and have a choice of aesthetic colours and finishes. The downside of using tiles is that they require more support because they are a heavier roofing alternative. Which may raise the cost of new roof NZ. Walking on them may cause them to break, complicating roof replacement costs NZ and parts, as well as making it difficult to match colours when replacing the tiles.
Clay/Concrete Tiles | Photo Credit – iStock
Copper
One of the most resilient roofing material you could use in your roof replacement cost NZ. Copper has been used for roofing for hundreds of years. Few materials can match copper’s aesthetic appeal, and it’s natural patina makes it a design statement for even the most modern of architectural styles.
Copper does not require any special coatings or finishes, unlike other steel roofing materials, and it will never rust or corrode, making it perfect for costal applications. Many roofing materials contain at least 75% recycled material, and copper is extremely recyclable.
The drawback of copper is that it is a very soft metal that could easily be dented by hail and other similar objects. If not placed appropriately, copper’s tendency to expand and contract due to temperature changes can cause problems with water infiltration. Roof replacement cost NZ for this material can be expensive. Be sure to seek out similar materials to this if this goes over budget. Roofing cost per square metre NZ is different for all materials.
Copper Tiles on a part of the house | Photo Credit – iStock
Corrugated/Long Run Steel
Corrugated iron is a kiwi icon that has graced many sheds and homes across the country. Even though the word is somewhat misleading nowadays because it has been made from steel for more than a century. Technology advancements have led to the production of numerous new styles and finishes, and its endurance is well-known due to this.
In addition to being simple to install. Steel has a high performance to weight ration which complements almost any architectural style. It’s also recyclable at the end of its duration and can withstand our unpredictable weather with ease and roof replacement cost NZ won’t break the budget.
On the negative side, steel roofing will dent when sufficiently struck by something. Which can detract from its appearance and cause leaks near seams. Like faulty installation, you may experience issues with water leakage and your roof could collapse in high wind conditions. This roofing material may not be suitable for you if you live somewhere with high winds as you many need to look at roof replacement cost NZ much sooner than necessary.
Steel Tiles on Roof | Photo Credit – iStock
Membrane
Due to its sustainability for use on flat or low-pitched roofs. Membrane roofing solutions, which were historically the preserve of commercial structure, have recently acquired popularity in the residential market. There are five main varieties of membrane roofing. They are liquid, thermoset, thermoplastic, modified bitumen, and glass reinforced plastic.
Depending on the membrane roofing type you select, there are different advantages. They all offer strong performance to weight ratios, are simple for skilled contractors to install, and provide high level of aesthetics. Cost of new roof NZ with this material would be a suitable roof replacement.
The downside of thermoset and thermoplastic products is that improper installation or neglect can lead to water leakage or pooling. When examining the roof or making repairs to other roof structure, caution must be given because these materials have been known to sustain punctures.
Use of Membrane Tiles | Photo Credit – iStock
Slate Shingles
Few materials shine as brightly as slate if you want to make a statement with your roof and having a slate shingle roof on your property can raise its resale value. Slate is a very desirable material choice because of its inherent tonal changes and versatility in terms of architectural styles.
There is no better material than slate for durability. Slate shingles should be reused or recycled several times and require little to no ongoing upkeep.
The disadvantage of slate shingles is that they are the heaviest of the roofing materials and will require adequate structural support.
Slate tiles used on roof | Photo Credit – iStock
Looking for the right roofing material can be tricky as there are many different materials you can choose from. You’d also want to ensure that it’s long lasting, so you don’t have to fix up your roof again. Luckily you can also reroof your home if necessary for a quick fix as the cost to reroof a house NZ won’t be as expensive as roof replacement cost NZ. Always do extensive research and grab a consultation and advice from professionals before you try to DIY it yourself. Especially if you’re unsure if your roof contains asbestos or not as asbestos can be harmful. Roofing cost per square metre NZ has many variables that determine the total price for a reroof or roof replacement.
How to design a bathroom? There are many steps and factors that you need to consider before you get started. Some say that your bathroom is almost like your very own spa. It’s a room in your house where you go to relax by taking a hot shower or soaking in the bathtub with wine and a movie. Which is why it’s important to think about the layout of your brand-new bathroom and which kind of style you might be going for. There are many bathrooms design that can be suited towards your needs and your families.
In this article:
Modern bathroom designs
Contemporary bathrooms
Traditional bathrooms
Cottage and Vintage bathrooms
Rustic Bathrooms
Industrial bathrooms
Contemporary Bathroom Design Ideas – How to Design a Contemporary Bathroom
There are many bathrooms design NZ that can be suited to your home. As you know there are many different bathroom styles available to you. Our contemporary bathroom design ideas reflect a more design approach with flowing curves, hard angles, and geometric patterns. This bathroom design is starting to appear more in homes nowadays as we move away from traditional bathroom design. Of course, this is all about preference. So, if you’re move interested in a traditional bathroom design then we can make that happen for you.
What is the difference between contemporary bathroom design and modern bathroom design? Firstly, the main difference are the years. Modern design begun around 1920s and 1930s. Secondly, you can also tell the difference between the two based on the different looks. Modern bathroom design is characterized by clean lines, neutral colours, and natural materials. This will help give the house or the bathroom a minimalistic aesthetic.
Contemporary bathroom design often draw inspiration from modernism and mid-century modern and doesn’t commit to a single aesthetic. It can have many different aesthetics, but they all tie together and make the room look nice and not overwhelming, Contemporary bathrooms also use glass and metal materials to even copper as this can work very well in a contemporary bathroom style. Which is why this bathroom style gets mistaken for a modern bathroom style.
Whilst traditional bathroom style use more wood, stone, and porcelain materials. Whereas contemporary bathroom designs use synthetics material like laminates and plastics, granite, stone, and stainless steel. This is what you’ll see in a contemporary bathroom. When trying to see which style is which, keep an eye out on the materials that are used, and you’ll have a rough idea.
8 Elements of a Contemporary Bathroom Design in NZ
1. Clean Lines
Contemporary bathrooms feature unbroken horizontal lines. Curvy, undulating planes are not relevant here, and cabinet hardware is kept simple.
2. Authentic Materials
How to design a bathroom? With a contemporary bathroom you’d want to choose materials that have and authenticity to them. We should be celebrating materials like wood or concrete instead of trying to alter them.
For this bathroom design idea, cabinets will lack any kind of decorative features like face frames or mouldings. Everything has been reduced to its most basic forms and components; there are only the necessities here. Cabinet and vanity doors have smooth, single-plane surfaces. Bathroom tiles design will be perfectly flush with the grout.
For this style, we’re going for a cleaner, simpler design. Once you consider having tiles patterning on the wall or chose more complex tiles then we’re moving away from the simpler design of the contemporary bathroom.
Bathroom tiles design perfectly flushed with the grout
If you love to organise and keep your space nice and tidy, then this style is perfect for you. Contemporary bathrooms have a minimalist aesthetic which is why you can incorporate asian themes into your bathroom. This is due to how everything is put away and everything has a home to go to. Nothing will be left on the countertops except for the necessities.
A bathroom does not have to be cluttered with toiletries. It can be a beautiful space but it is important to think about storage before choosing your fittings. A mirror cabinet is a perfect way to increase storage in your bathroom which can be seen in this bathroom. The mirror cabinet is from Methven which we get from our supplier Reece.
4. Contrast
Our designers use contrast to provide interest and drama to contemporary rooms instead of using ornate décor and details. For example, textural bamboo cabinets blend with polished concrete. Modern interiors keep to hues and colours that are at opposite ends of the colour spectrum. Your bathroom would be more pleasing if there is a wow factor.
This bathroom is a great example of a bathroom design that combines different textures and patterns within a small bathroom space to create a cohesive bathroom design.
Once more, simple shapes take precedence over anything extravagant or detailed.
6. Open Space
This is a crucial component when designing your contemporary bathroom. How to design a small bathroom? Whilst the space might be small, You can always create the illusion of space by making your bathroom more open and having more light in. The style is characterised by floating vanities, wide flooring, and a general sense of lightness and airiness.
7. Colours
Contemporary bathroom design ideas can use many different colours. There isn’t just a specific colour tone or shade you need to stick to. Whilst some people do agree that contemporary styles lean towards cooler colours. Others have disagreed used colours that fit well with them and they own style. It’s more important to consider how your material selections and colour choices interact.
8. Chrome
Because it is elegant, polished chrome is widely used in modern fixtures. Many of the faucet and fixture designs that are so effective originate in Europe, where chrome is preferred because it is durable, simple to clean, and true to the material.
One of our displays in our renovation showroom showcases a dark contemporary bathroom with chrome fittings as it is one of the most popular finishes for our clients. It works really well with modern and contemporary bathrooms. Our renovation showroom showcases 5 displays of renovated bathrooms and 3 Kitchens so clients can explore different materials and get ideas for their own renovation.
How to Design a Modern Bathroom? Modern Bathroom Ideas
How to design a bathroom? Modern bathroom design may be for you if you enjoy a clean, uncluttered appearance that keeps the focus on the architecture. Continue reading for essential information about this well-liked bathroom design, including its essential components, colour schemes, fixtures, and finishing touches.
Modern-Style Bathrooms at a Glance
Flat-panel doors and drawers on floating vanities
Simple faucets and hardware
Frameless mirror
Simplified or integrated lighting
A neutral, minimalist colour scheme
Finishes and materials should be repeated for a consistent look.
What You Won’t Find in Modern Bathrooms
Door faces with carvings or ornate knobs
Detailed wainscoting, millwork, or moulding
Vibrant colours and patterns, unless used as a small accent
A unorganised approach to materials and finishes as opposed to simplicity and consistency
Neutral Colour Palette
For your modern bathroom ideas, you might want to consider using a neural colour palette. A modern bathroom design will lean use more crisp, clean white, subtle neutrals and black. Accessories such as bath towels and plants add a splash of colour in your modern bathroom design.
Colours for Modern Bathrooms:
Neutrals – Beige, slate, putty dove grey and taupe.
Black and white – Matte black and architectural white
Pops of colour – Teal, chartreuse, red and blue
Floating Vanity
How to design a small bathroom? Not only are floating vanities popular with modern bathroom designs but they’re also very useful when thinking of a small bathroom design. They create more space in your bathroom for more storage use underneath and provide you with an opportunity to be creative.
A floating vanity works well in a modern bathroom and should be incorporated into your modern bathroom ideas as they help provide a light, streamlined look. Choose engineered quartz, marble, granite, or a solid-surface material in a neutral colour for the top. Combine with undermount sinks for a seamless look that is also easy to clean.
In a modern bathroom design, vessel sinks can be a striking alternative to undermount sinks. Simple rounded or rectilinear shapes in white, glass, or stone are ideal. This is a design detail you’d want to think about in your modern bathroom ideas.
Creating an open space bathroom can also help improve the visual effect of the room. How to design a small bathroom? Space does not matter when it comes to creating breathing space in a modern bathroom design. The space between objects is just as important as the objects themselves in a modern bathroom design. Consider clean-lined furniture on bare floors or a neutral rug, crisp white walls and bare windows, or a single sculptural vase on an otherwise empty surface in your modern bathroom ideas.
A calming bathroom design in our renovated bathroom in Albany
Of course, a modern bathroom design can be colourful. A modern bathroom focal point is on material and structure, rather than a specific colour tone or surface pattern. If you’re thinking of adding colour into your bathroom design ideas try not to use busy patterns as that will take away the modern style. Instead opt for bold hues to an upholstered piece or a bunch of glass vases.
Design Detail – Sculptural Lighting
For your modern bathroom ideas consider using pendant lights as they really stand out in a modern style. Consider choosing a sculptural shape in gleaming gold, copper, or silver, matte black, wood, or white.
Rustic Style Bathrooms
If you’re an outdoorsy, adventurous person who loves nature then having a rustic style bathroom is perfect for you. You’d feel right at home with materials like stone and rough-hewn wood beams.
Rustic Style Bathrooms at a Glance
This style entwines the outdoors with warm, cosy textiles and raw natural materials, as you’d expect in a rustic bathroom. If you’re interested in creating a rustic bathroom design, here are some elements to consider:
Handcrafted wood beams, cabinetry, and wall panelling
Natural stone floors, accents, and wall treatments
Hammered or matte finishes on dark metal hardware
Natural-inspired colour palettes
Patinated materials, such as natural wood, copper, and stone
What You Won’t Find in Rustic Bathrooms
Lush colour palettes
Cutting edge trends
Immensely polished finishes like chrome
Lucite, moulded plastic and man-made materials
Mix and match approach to finishes and materials
Nature-Inspired Colour Palette
For a rich, cosy look, repeat the hues of natural materials such as stone and warm woods with paint colours and accents in similar shades.
Colours for Rustic Bathroom
Neutrals – Buttermilk, cream, straw, wheat, stone
Earth tones – Chestnut, mushroom, umber, terra cotta, sepia
Spicy hues – Cinnamon, saffron, pumpkin, chili pepper, baked apple
Furniture-Style Vanity
Some bathroom design ideas you might want to consider wood or wood like vanities with furniture style details like legs and open shelving. The example below shows one of our clients take on a rustic bathroom but adding gold accessories to give in a more rustic luxury look and feel.
Wooden Vanity with brushed gold tapware in this Rustic Bathroom design in Westmere
A stone or copper vessel sink can be the focal point of a rustic bathroom or powder room. Look for natural shapes that are rounded and organic, and that have a tactile texture or patina.
Natural Stone
Bathroom design NZ uses natural stone for their rustic bathroom design. Stone floors, counters and wall treatments help deliver a natural texture to a rustic bathroom. You might want to try incorporating slate, fieldstone, travertine, soapstone, and pebble tile are all rich, earthy materials in your rustic bathroom design NZ.
Design Detail – Weathered Metal
Patina is common in rustic-style metal finishes, which are softly gleaming or matte rather than shiny or high-gloss in a rustic bathroom design NZ. For bathroom design ideas try cabinet pulls, faucets, and lighting in dark, weathered metal finishes like oil-rubbed bronze, antique brass, or hammered copper are ideal. Choose something more whimsical, such as twig- or stone-shaped hardware.
Finishing Touches
Tie up your rustic bathroom design NZ with wood, stone, or copper accessories. You’d want to use finishing touches with nature incorporated into it through nature art or photography. That way it will give your bathroom an outdoorsy vibe. Consider using these finishing touches in your bathroom design ideas.
Gold coloured finishing touches for this rustic bathroom
Cottage style bathrooms aren’t seen as much in bathroom design NZ as most people either choose modern or cotemporary bathroom design NZ. With that said though, cottage style bathrooms find beauty in simplicity and can be the change you may need. When thinking about bathroom design ideas for this style, you’d want to incorporate these elements:
Open shelving
Wall panelling
Freestanding bathtub
Simple hardware
Natural wood accents
What You Won’t Find in Cottage Style Bathrooms
Cottage style bathrooms mainly priorities on rustic and simplicity charm. Which is why when planning your bathroom design ideas, you’d want to avoid any modern elements. Here are some elements you won’t see in a cottage bathroom design NZ:
Busy patterns
Cluttered surfaces
Super sleek finishes
Heritage Hues
Simple, natural colour palettes are preferred in cottage style bathrooms. White with crisp black trim is a popular option; for deeper hues, consider nature-inspired neutrals and other classic colours. For your bathroom tiles design you might want to consider using these colours to help tie the room together.
Other classic colours – Deep Green, Barn Red, Sage, Denim Blue
Shaker Style Vanity
How to design a bathroom? With different bathroom styles, they all have different elements that are required to complete the look. For a cottage bathroom design NZ, you’d consider getting a shaker style vanity. This vanity is well suited for a cottage bathroom.
Shaker cabinets can be painted or simply finished to show off the natural beauty of the wood grain. Cabinets with flat panels and furniture-style designs in natural wood tones can also look good for your bathroom design ideas.
Design Detail – Barn Lighting
Cottage bathroom design ideas for lighting can come in different shapes. You can choose from a bold shape barn lighting which can add a stylish touch to your bathroom design. Another option is going with a cylinder shape vanity lighting or a simple glass bell with filament bulbs. Lastly, you can look for pendants and sconces made of traditional galvanised steel or vibrantly coloured powder-coated steel. This will elevate your bathroom design ideas.
Design Detail – Subway Tile
Bathroom tiles design for this bathroom is going with subway tiles. This is because subway tile is crisp, clean, and reasonably priced, and it pairs well with almost everything. It bridges the gap between rustic and modern aspects with ease. For a novel twist, try mixing it with dark grout. Consider using subway tiles in your bathroom tiles design.
Subway tiles with dark grout combines with black hexagonal tiles with white grouting
Having a claw foot bathtub will most definitely be the star of the room. Including a claw foot bathtub in your bathroom design ideas will help add character to your cottage bathroom. The only problem is that not every bathroom floor can handle the weight of a claw foot bathtub. An alternative to this would be having a freestanding pedestal bathtub, consider this as a backup plan in your bathroom design ideas.
Design Detail – Sliding Barn Doors
How to design a small bathroom? Having a sliding door will help eliminate the space that is needed for the bathroom door. This is perfect for a small bathroom as it will provide you with more space to decorate your bathroom and storage area as well. The only downside to this is that a sliding door does not provide 100% complete privacy like a normal door. Including this into your bathroom design ideas will add a more cottage character to your cottage style bathroom.
Sliding Barn door was created for this bathroom’s entrance due to the tight space in the corridor and to avoid the door opening into the bathroom. This provided more space for all bathroom fixtures without being congested
In your bathroom design ideas, you may want to consider getting a trough sink and it will add to the appeal of a cottage style bathroom. This type of sink is ideal for busy households because it is made of white fireclay or porcelain and has multiple faucet options. When installed as a drop-in with a lovely wood counter. A trough sink strikes the perfect balance of functionality and elegance.
Wall Panelling
Panelling can be tricky especially if you are planning to renovate with an old home, but we can always work around it to give you the cottage appeal. It’s been said that shiplap panelling can add an architectural interest in your home and really set the tone for your cottage bathroom. Some bathroom design ideas may also be using beadboard panelling as well.
Finishing Touches
To finish off decorating your bathroom, we recommend woven baskets, striped rugs, modern stools, and matt black hardware. As this will go well in your cottage bathroom style. You may also want to add some artwork surround nature or farm life. Farmhouse-style bathrooms combine rustic appeal with modern sensibilities that value simplicity.
The matte and intricate fixtures of the tapware combined with white ceramic fixtures make the bathroom what it truly us – a classic vintage bathroom design in Greenhithe, Auckland
Pastel Tones
Your bathroom should feel nice and relaxing the second you step in. The bathroom is the place where we can relax after a long day. To create a more relaxing environment in your bathroom, opt for using pastel, neutral colours to create a comfortable atmosphere.
Example of using pastel tones in bathroom | Photo Credit – iStock
Pastel – Coloured Tiles
Stuck on bathroom tiles design? For your cottage bathroom you can choose a timeless style for your bathroom tiles design. Or you can opt for a peachy pink, or powder blue. Keep in mind that you can use your bathroom tiles design to frame your bathtub or make a little statement wall.
Soft Creamy Towels
Towels add colour and texture, instantly calming the atmosphere in your cottage bathroom. Add delicate pastel hues to your decor to give it a cottage atmosphere. You may match them to a prominent element, like pastel tiles, or combine multiple hues for a shabby-chic look.
Traditional Bathrooms
Another popular bathroom design NZ. It’s often said that the bathroom is the place you relax so you’d want to make sure all your accessories and furnishing all work well with one another to create a harmonious scheme. How to design a bathroom? For a traditional bathroom you’d want to incorporate unique pieces that helps give the room a timelessness feels. It’s best to avoid any modern furnishing or accessories.
7 Elements of a Traditional Bathroom Design
1. Cabinets with Character
In your traditional bathroom design ideas, you’d find cabinets with character in this style. Cabinets and vanities in traditional settings are defined by rounded legs, carved door faces, and ornate knobs. Be sure to pick a vanity with these features to add character to your bathroom.
2. Antique Style Lighting
In your bathroom design, you’d want to ensure that you aren’t picking any modern lighting fixtures. Lighting fixtures for a traditional bathroom is unique and ornamental. Instead of tubular or streamlined fixtures, consider curvy antique sconces.
3. Calming Colours
There will be no bright colours in a traditional bathroom design as that will move away from the style. In this bathroom design colour scheme opt for neutral colours like black, grey, or white. If you want to be a bit more creative and add colour you can choose a pale green or blue colour.
Moulding is important in a bathroom as it can help add decoration to the room, help protect wall surfaces and cover any gaps in the walls, floor, ceiling, or cabinets. This may be something to consider in your bathroom design ideas.
5. Lots of Details
Details are important in a bathroom. In such a small space you can make the room seem big just by the details. How to design a small bathroom? The attention to detail in a small bathroom is one of the distinguishing features of traditional spaces. In traditional settings, tilework, millwork, and cabinetry all have extra ornamentation.
6. Unique Tilework
Bathroom tiles design may be a bit trickier for a traditional bathroom. We recommend choosing a lighter colour and veining for your bathroom tiles design. An example may be choosing something like a Carrara marble material. Another option may be to use a black and white hex tile floor for your bathroom tiles design.
7. Stand – Along Storage Cabinets
In a traditional bathroom style, artistry is brought forward and shown more than functionality. In many traditional bathrooms design, you’d see that vertical cabinets are used as linen closets.
Stand – along storage cabinets | Photo Credit – iStock
Design Highlights of a Traditional Bathroom
Calm Colour Palette
Traditional bathroom colour scheme tends to lean towards softer and relaxing instead of bright colours. You can opt for wood tones or deeper shade of grey or blue for a richer look in your bathroom.
Colours for Traditional Bathrooms
Soft neutrals – Snow white, cream, silver, beige
Serene hues – Sage green, misty blue, blue-grey
Rich colours – Espresso, slate, chocolate, navy
Use of soft neutral colours | Photo Credit – iStock
Having a dressing table in your bathroom might sound odd but in a traditional bathroom style, it makes perfect sense. Not only does this dressing table work will with light hues stone but it also has a double purpose. More storage spaces! How to design a small bathroom? Creating more space and making sure you have enough storage areas to eliminate any clutter is essential.
Elegant Stone
Another element that can contribute to your traditional bathroom design is having stone floors, counters, or wall treatments. This can be a focal point in your bathroom style. A bathroom tiles design idea for you can be using rectangular and square pieces to create a basketweave effect.
Classic Bathtub
This is another bathroom style that you can integrate a claw foot bathtub, or you can stick with a classic pedestal style bathtub. Though if that isn’t what you’re looking for you also choose a freestanding bathtub as that will still stick with the style.
In a traditional bathroom, the right details create a sense of luxury and pampering. Classic brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze faucets and hardware hit the right note. Finish with an antique stool, embroidered hand towels, a vase of flowers, and a pretty tray filled with bath products.
Industrial Style Bathroom Design
This style of bathroom can come in different many colours and different accessories but still stay within the style. This bathroom style might not be right for everyone. If you love raw materials and utilitarian spaces, then this style is perfect for you.
Industrial Style Bathrooms at a Glance
In an industrial style bathroom, you won’t find any busy patterns or bright colours. It’s often stated that raw materials and tough fixtures would be the star of the bathroom and take centre stage. Some elements to look for in an industrial bathroom:
Exposed raw materials
Minimal details
Glass and stell shower enclosures
Trough and basin sinks
White subway tiles
What You Won’t Find in Industrial Bathrooms
Surface ornamentation plays no part in this bathroom design as it focuses more on the beauty of how things work. Here are some elements you won’t see:
Light or pastel hues
Luxurious comforts
Elaborate moulding
Delicate fixtures
Minimalist Colour Palette
Unlike other bathroom styles, you’d want to avoid using any bright or pastel colours as that will not be on theme with your industrial bathroom design NZ. The colour palette for this bathroom will be from the raw materials you use with a tiny bit of saturated colour included.
Colours for Industrial Bathrooms:
Saturated colours – Navy, rust orange, royal blue, brick red
Shades of grey – Charcoal, cement gray, slate
Black and white – Matte black, architectural white
Neutral colours in industrial bathroom | Photo Credit – iStock
Freestanding Bathtub
A freestanding bathtub is popular and it often a key feature that many homeowners purchase in their bathroom design idea as a freestanding bathtub goes with most bathroom styles. Your freestanding bathtub can a focal point in your industrial bathroom, and you can choose from a white or silver bathtub as well.
Adding modern functional elements to a historic Epsom bungalow to suit the lifestyles of new homeowners
If you look at any industrial bathrooms, you’d be able to see that matte black fittings look amazing for this style. It really makes the room pop! For your shower you can get a black framed shower door made from steel or aluminium. These materials are vital for this style. You can finish the look off with a sliding door or a glass shower door.
Hardworking Raw Materials
To add authentic character to your industrial bathroom design, focus on using raw materials like stainless stell, brick, timber beans and concrete. This would be a main point in your bathroom rather than having paint. Another benefit to this is that this material won’t deteriorate as quickly as other materials.
Example of raw materials used in industrial bathroom | Photo Credit iStock
Bathroom tiles design can be trick with an industrial bathroom design style. We recommend going with the white subways tiles as it provides the bathroom with a clean, crisp look. You can increase your contrast by adding dark grout to your bathroom tiles design.
Design Detail – Hefty Sliding Doors
For such a complex bathroom, you’d want to go all out with this style. We recommend choosing a sliding door to finish off the room. Larger, heavier-duty sliding doors are a factory-inspired take on the barn door trend that are ideal for industrial bathrooms. Furthermore, heavier sliding doors offer more privacy than standard wooden barn doors.
Finishing Touches
An industrial bathroom style is not for everyone as there aren’t many opportunities for you to add colour or have decorative flourishes. Finishing touches for this bathroom is just a few carefully chosen details are enough to complete the space. Exposed pipes, gear like faucets and hardware, metal stools and potted plants are excellent choices to finish off your bathroom design NZ.
Example of exposed pipes and hardware | Photo Credit – iStock
Designing a bathroom can be tricky sometimes as there are many different styles that may be best suited for you and your aesthetic. Some people put a lot of work and effort into making sure their bathroom is perfect and others don’t. It’s all about preferences and if you’re interested in these bathroom styles, be sure to check out our showroom and speak to our bathroom designers to plan your dream bathroom.
2021 and 2022 were years filled with uncertainty and continuous lockdowns. Although this new year as some of us slowly returned to an office, it is safe to say we spent a lot of time at home, being the perfect opportunities for renovating house. Whether it is for in-person hangouts, parties, or a stay-cation, homes have the destination for these gatherings. It is hard to say what 2022 will bring, but let’s not make this uncertainty prevent us from getting those dream house renovations, and renovating house projects ticked off! In this blog we will cover upcoming full home renovation trends for renovating a house in New-Zealand.
Nowadays, especially when it comes to renovation old homes in NZ, homeowners become more aware of the home layout and the aesthetics for a space. This is because, the energy and atmosphere of the home can significantly change before and after a house renovation. A common renovating house trend in NZ that many homeowners’ favours is the process of turning a spare room or unused space to a home office. Due to the many hours spent at working from home, a home office has been a crowd favourite. When renovating house in New-Zealand, incorporating a home office will boost the functionality of home, and may be at the forefront when selling your home in the future.
Home renovation, whether it is a full house renovation nz or a singular room many homeowners value the layout and the aesthetic of the room. It can easily be said that these aspects can contribute to the productivity of the home. In 2022, since many homeowners will spend more time and effort in designing a unique working space to maximise their concentration and productivity when renovating house.
When renovating old nz homes, the home offices and dining rooms were the first rooms you see when entering the home. It is great to see that this home design trend is making a come back in renovating house projects in 2022! Homeowners can also try incorporating build in high-tech solutions such as smart boards, projectors and/or wet bars when renovating house.
1. Enhanced Outdoor Spaces and Features when Renovating House.
According to our in-house designers, 25 percent of more homeowners are now investing in patios, terraces, and decks compared to 2020. More homeowners are now prioritising creating space for family get together and entertainment when renovating houses. During the full home renovation process the floor plan can be extended to create flow from indoors to outdoors. New Zealand homeowners have quickly realised that when renovating house, with the correct landscaping, furnishing, and styling, it can make all the difference in how they use the space each day.
How to Enhances your Outdoor Space:
Although common outdoor spaces and features are located behind homes, you can also utilise the surround space of your home by renovating these features on the side and front of the home. By doing the house will be given a curb appeal and creates spaces around the house homeowners can relax in. A full house renovation can be a hefty topic, so it is important you plan before with a certified designer to think of ways and/or new trends you can maximise the current space you have. Some outdoor full home renovation designs we recommend are enclosed porches paired with natural plants and florals to bring the relaxing atmosphere from outdoors in. The use of natural plants and decorations can also create a sense of softness and dimension, therefore is one full house renovation design we highly recommend.
Another design aspects you can incorporate in your renovating house process is to introduce shade structures like awnings. We have seen an increase of homeowners making plans to incorporating awnings in full home and outdoor renovations. Awnings can create an aesthetically please shade structure and not only provide protection from the sun but helps make the outdoor living area feel more connected.
Try look for fabrics with certified UV sunlight protection. As more and more homeowners start their full house renovations in New Zealand, outdoor rooms such as pools, outdoor kitchens and fire pits are popular features added to the clients wish-list. Another full house renovation design idea for your outdoor space is connecting these spaces to indoor rooms with luxurious French doors or doors that fold back.
Texture, especially when it comes to renovating old homes in New-Zealand, will become the biggest trend you will see for 2022. It is amazing to see the differences of what incorporating of a texture can do to the before and after of your home renovation.
Faux Finishing
Another design trend that will be rising in 2022 is the use of texture. Faux finishing has significantly exploded in the house renovation nz market in New-Zealand. When renovating a house or planning your renovation journey say hello to a surface you want to run your hands over and/or engage with in a tactile way. A common texture used especially in full home renovations is Faux finishing. Faux finishing is when materials are used to mimic installed materials. This finishing has exploded within the renovation market with the advent of materials and processes that make home renovation and designing more approachable from both a cost and skill perspective. A popular way to incorporate faux finishing texture is through a faux brick wall. If this is done well with certified professionals, you can barely spot the difference. Within many of our clients we often see homeowners opt for using a faux finish to achieve the look of Venetian plaster, concrete, or marble.
Grasscloth
Another texture to incorporate in your full home renovation journey is the use of Grasscloth. Grasscloth is a perfect option to create a more traditional and transitional space, as well as bring a soft subtle atmosphere to your home. This texture is perfect when you want to maintain the traditional aesthetic when renovation old homes NZ. A common use of grasscloth is lines of 3D wall panels giving the home space a dimensional look, which have been very popular with home designers for modern or contemporary home renovations. Texture is a perfect way to spice up the atmosphere of your home and create a sort of visual interest. During a full room renovation process many of our designers have found many clients have become bored with basic paint for wall applications and have opt out for textured designs instead.
Fabrics
It is safe to say, that texture fabrics are here to stay and have always been a crowd favourite. Recently we have seen an increase in demand for crème bouclé in renovating house in 2021. Crème bouclé tones have been a popular colour in more traditional houses that we have seen a lot on our renovation projects for older homes in New-Zealand. We are happy to see this colour make a comeback as it is timeless, whilst providing the elegant warm aesthetic. This year texture fabrics such as sage green, pale yellow, pale greys, and blues can be predicted to be the new crowd favourite. Texture fabrics as well as soft-to-the-hand fabrics create a feeling of warmth to the house and are one of the upcoming home designs features our in-house designers are gravitating towards in 2022.
Raw Metals and Natural Wood
Interesting materials are taking the front seat for homeowners, especially those who are renovating old homes nz. Another interesting material to incorporate during your full home renovations are raw metals and natural wood textures. Wood textures can make a significant difference to the before and after of the home renovation nz. Being the reason, many homeowners are now more excited about making a sophisticated statement that highlight their distinct style and personality. Raw metals and other panelling options are commonly requested on modern and contemporary renovation projects. Whereas natural woody accents with a hint of patina tone textures have been popular for more traditional and country projects. Materials like raw metals and natural woods have an easy application during the renovation process and can be simply be placed on top of already existing walls without expensive structural work.
Textures are an upcoming trend in 2022 that we will most likely see a lot of homeowners considering textures during their full home renovation process, especially old home renovations. Textures give a home, even an old-fashioned home soul and richness to the space around us.
3. Incorporate Technology within your Full Home Renovation
Technology will make huge advancements within full home renovation interior design. Digital interior design in renovating house was already increasing pre Covid days, and now more designers and homeowners we will see the efficiency of online interior design becoming bigger in 2022. The space and size of interior designs can be seen to have gotten significantly bigger due practice social distancing. Whether the design is a renovation for an office or a new store the value of space have increases compared to before and after renovations nz. We also expect home decor apps and design firms to implement technological changes to their business plans for 2022. This could potentially lower renovation costs as design fees will be decreased.
A great way to start incorporating technology aspect to your home is during your full home renovation design process, using virtual staging with 3D models. The rise of technology within home renovation in New-Zealand when renovating a house nz are expected to rise and there has been a significant increase in demand before COVID. The ways technology is incorporated are also expected to increase as more home décor apps and design firms implement technology during any home renovation process and/or their design operations. An easy way to start incorporating technology into your home renovation design process is virtual staging. Virtual staging will be an easy way to get the idea of how your new home will look like, as well as will make it easier for furniture shopping.
These days, we are on our phones, tablets, and computers a lot more than before being more of a reason technology should be incorporating when renovating a house nz. Whether it is answering to emails, attending work conferences, or just mindlessly scrolling, technology has become an important sector of our day-to-day routines. Therefore, our in-house designers recommend incorporating more specialised outlets, such as the Ultra-Fast Plus Power Delivery with USB-C, or a pop-out outlet during the designing process of your full home renovation or renovating a house nz in general. These types of innovative outlets will provide homeowners with faster charging ports, as well as a sleek design with no bulky adapters needed.
4. Full Home Renovations: Create a Modern and Multi-Purpose Kitchen
When renovating a house nz, the kitchen is where the family spends most of their time together and can be seen as the home’s hub. Renovating the kitchen, whether it is a kitchen focused project or a full home renovation project, is one of the most common projects our clients undertake. As well as have a significant return in the renovation costs as it is the most commonly used areas in a home. More and more clients are investing in larger, modern design kitchens. This can be seen especially due to the increase in hours spent at home and the kitchen due to COVID lockdowns. The kitchen, during full home renovation projects are usually take up majority of the planning and designing stage. This is because, many of our clients have realised the importance of utilising the space, as the family spend so much time in that area. The median of clients spending time and money on kitchens have increases in the last past three years, the investment on the renovation to large kitchen is expected to jump in the coming years.
The house renovations before and after of a kitchen is truely amazing. Renovating house is truely an awarding experience.
5. House Renovations NZ: The Bathroom is your Private Sanctuary
The bathroom is the second most popular room renovated by homeowners during 2021 and the start of 2022 when renovating a house nz. During continuous lockdowns, having a little alone time at any point during the day is a reward. If you found yourself continuously hiding in the bathroom to get a little alone time, a luxurious bathroom renovation is for you! The before and after of bathroom renovations nz will amaze you.
So, what does a full home bathroom renovation entail in renovating a house nz? A typical bathroom renovation includes replacing the cabinetry/vanity, countertops, and the toilet. While the numbers spent by homeowners to renovation their bathroom has been steady along the years. The renovation cost spent on a primary bathroom renovation is at $8,000 nzd average. The renovation of smaller primary bathrooms has increased by 20 percent, as homeowners shift to maximising every room of their homes during a full house renovation process.
For many of our clients and homeowners, the bathroom during house renovations nz has become the only private space away from children or family. This space provides relaxation and respite; therefore, the renovation of the bathroom has become a necessity- especially with travel plans being cancelled. Our in house designers state, “For many, the bathroom is acted as a private space away from any distractions, and the bathroom provides relaxations and respire increased almost every night. This is why when clients are renovating a house nz, especially renovating old homes they like to focus on the bathroom”.
This year we encourage our clients and homeowners to give the guest bedrooms more love with the incorporation of trending home designs when renovating a house nz. Here are some of the guest bedrooms trends that have been increasing through the years:
Add a luxurious coffee bar or a mini fridge during your house renovations nz. A full house renovation nz calls for the opportunity to incorporate new features to the guest bedroom. Especially when it comes to the renovation old nz homes, the guest bedroom is the perfect opportunity to bring in more modern designs and move on from the traditional.
Include a spacious desk for guests who work remotely and will need a private area to have Zoom calls or check their emails during house renovation nz. Renovations cost to include a luxurious spacious desks for your guests do not cost a fortune. The simple act of incorporating new and modern design furniture can make a significant difference to your house renovation before and after nz.
House renovations nz: introduce an interesting wall treatment or specialty lighting. Incorporating wall treatment during renovation a house nz is a perfect way to make your house feel more foreign and luxurious. Wall treatments have been very popular overseas and we can see an increase in this trend with clients when renovating house.
Design for the destination. This includes adding coastal, farmhouse, metropolitan, or southwest elements that are specific to your home atmosphere and location. Designing to fit the destination is journey many clients take during house renovation nz. This is often because it breaks free from the traditional designs of New-Zealand house renovations nz. The house renovations before and after nz effect for these designs will amaze you!
Creating a space when renovation a house to retreat to so you van relax and recharge is the reason why many clients love renovating old nz homes primary bedrooms. The house renovations nz of the primary bedrooms is one of the sixth most popular interior projects taken. The primary bedroom is a place where homeowners can retreat to relax and recharge. The uprising trends for primary bedroom renovations are the incorporation of dramatic colours and wall treatments. This includes anything from 3D applications, like boards and battens to bold colours and textures, such as a bold green or even black. Our in house designer states, “It is refreshing to see when renovations old nz homes that many clients create a sanctuary from themselves. We encourage clients to choose and embrace design choices that are personalised to them and their lifestyle. It is always a joy to when renovating a house and during a house renovation nz project to see clients break free from text book designs and trends”.
8. Go Bold!
Recently, we have been seeing a lot of homeowners incorporate the use of wallpapers and are an easy way to be installed, as well as be swapped out for any design changes during full house renovations nz. Current trends show many homeowners using wallpapers with bold patterns during their renovation process when they want to experiment with colour and texture. Experimenting with colours during the process of renovation a house nz and/or before house renovations is a perfect way to trail and error your colour choices. Wallpapers are often common in nurseries or the children’s room. However, more and more homeowners have created their own individuality through unique colours and patterns wallpapers can offer. Popular colours our in-house designs recommend for full home renovations are pinks, burnt oranges, peacock blues and pine greens. Wallpapers are not only used in rooms but can also be a unique way to create contrast in your kitchen on a backsplash, or cabinets.
For several years we have seen white dominating whole interior and exterior home renovations. However, this year we have seen a shift to dark neutrals, such as natural wood panelling or dark grey focus walls during full house renovations nz. The house renovations nz before and after nz from switching from neutral tones to bold personalised colours work wonders to the home atmosphere. Our in house designers state. “Dark is the new white. We are seeing a strong interesting in dark neutrals and dark wood stains when renovating a house nz. We see this especially when renovation old nz homes as these tones during more of a modern feel to the home atmosphere”.
2022 is also the year we will see the rise of the “side-hustle bedroom” during house renovations as well as full house renovations nz. With many Gen Z and Millennials with an entrepreneurial mindset, a bedroom dedicated as a filming set to creative studio and/or a warehouse to ship facilities have become an increasing trend. Renovation costs for these bedrooms are not scary as it may sound, consult with your designers to build up a plan that works for you when renovation a house nz or even when renovating old nz homes.
Greens have been a huge factor in full house renovations in 2022. Many of our clients are inspired by historic and organic references in architectural design for their full home renovation design. People have gone back to the roots of a materials and incorporate chemical free paints and resources during their full home renovation journey. The pandemic has significantly contributed to the realisation of health and the environment, as more homeowners become less materialistic. Our in-house designers state that the primary focus on revamping up a space is to reuse materials and furniture.
During full house renovations nz, many homeowners inspired by historic and organic references, which pairs with the demand for reclaimed and sustainably made materials. The demand for more organic and refreshing designs can be seen increasing when renovating old nz homes. This is because many old nz homes come with traditional designs and wood features that can bring a dark atmosphere to the home. As these demands increase, many renovation company’s along with ourselves have been working on more creative ways to incorporate this innovation in house renovations.
10. Natural Sunlight
The request for natural sunlight to be incorporate in their home by homeowners have been becoming increasingly popular. This can be done through bigger windows and door openings. When swapping out windows for doors and investing in adding larger windows, give a sense of greater connection to the outside and nature. We see many of our clients embarking on remodelling work to replace traditional patio doors with large scenic doors to create a seamless transition and sense of freedom.
Not only can you bring nature to your home through windows and doors, but through warm tone colours. Move beyond classic white and blues and gravitate towards colour-ways that bring the essence of nature. Try incorporating greens, ochre, terra-cotta, oatmeal beige, and greys during your full home renovation design process.
Our in house designers highly recommend homeowners when renovating an old house nz to lean into a soft modern aesthetic. This can be done by incorporating organic wood tones and clean, natural colours that will create a positive impact on well-being and inspire the sense of connection with nature.
11. Durable Surfaces
Having durable surfaces and a good quality home is a key when you are renovating your full house renovations nz. Especially with many homeowners stilling a large amount of time cleaning and scrubbing their countertops, it is important you incorporate durable material. Our in-house designers recommend acrylic solid surfaces. These surfaces are seamless and offer max durability with no additional maintenance, with a sleek beautiful design. Our in house designers state, “As more and more homeowners become more savvy about the maintenance required for countertops especially homeowners renovating old nz homes seek for acrylic surfaces. Acrylic surfaces are seamless and offer durability without any extra work required and will not be a burden to renovation costs. The home renovations before and after nz with wooden countertops and acrylic have a significant difference”.
12. Sustainable Renovation
Eco-friendly home renovation designs are becoming a clever way to upgrade your home, while minimising environmental impact. There are our top four sustainable home designs you can incorporate during your next renovation journey. A easy way to become a sustainable household as well as maintain renovation costs will involve upgrading appliances. Not only should you seek to find Energy Star-rated appliances that focus on energy use, but also do the research and find the brands that offer this efficiently. Making changes in your household does not need to be a full house renovation or have a huge renovation before and after difference. Making small changes like this can also contribute to making a change in your home, like a house renovations.
1. Living Walls
Living walls and living roofs involve installing live plants into the structure of your home. Not only does this turn into the statement of your home, but it is also highly sustainable as it acts like a natural air purifier. Incorporating natural greens in your renovation design is scientifically proven to make a person happiness and improve wellness and mood, making a huge difference in house renovations before and after nz.
2. Smart Homes
Implementing technology within your home is also boost sustainability in your home. There are many newly developed technologies that can track water levels and usage in bathrooms and kitchens and leak identifiers. Technology can now also track how much power you are using and make it easier to remember to turn off lights with automatic sensors.
Living in a tiny home is a lifestyle change. However, tiny homes are identifiably more environmentally friendly, thus, being the reason why many homeowners consider tiny homes. Tiny homes are naturally smaller than your average home. Therefore, in the long run it will use much less water, gas, and electricity.
4. Solar Panels
Another smart way to opt out into a sustainable lifestyle is using solar panel energy. Solar energy is a renewable resource that will contribute into reducing energy use of a household astronomically. Whilst installing solar panels can be expensive and can involve a difficult renovation process, the end results and benefits it brings will not disappoint!
13. Smooth Curves
The trend of curves and sculptural furniture are expected to come back in 2022. Try incorporating these designs within your full home renovation design process to create an elegant European flair atmosphere, through using curved pod chairs, and arches.
Sustainable trends do not need to charge a significant amount to your renovation cost or budget. Simple acts of knowing where your materials are being sources and repurposed can turn any house renovation and renovating a house nz into one that helps the environment. Renovating old nz homes that did not focus on these aspects can also significantly improve your home’s sustainability and is a perfect way to reduce carbon footprint. When sustainability is trending in house renovations, everybody wins!
14. Vintage and DIY
Vintage and DIY projects are a great way to add a bit for your own personality into your home design. Some interior designs and furnitures can come with a high price point that just aren’t feasible. In this case, we recommend looking at what you already own and how you could spice up these items to create a new look. Could it be on-trend with a new fresh coat of paint or some new reupholstering?
15. Matte and Stone
Trends have shifted from gloss to matte and can be seen as an upcoming trend in 2022. More and more homeowners are now incorporating matte finishes in their bathrooms and kitchen fixtures, such as brass, brushed coppers, black matte, and even white matte. Move aside gloss, matte and stone finishes are here to stay!
Full home renovations can be a hefty topic. There are so many aspects to consider such as renovation costs, as well as renovation designs. In this blog we have highlighted upcoming full home renovations design trends for 2022, and there are a lot more trends to come throughout the years. Your full home renovation journey does not need to scary. With the correct specialist, contractors, and designers, we can guarantee your renovation journey will be a breeze.
How much does it cost to renovation in Auckland?
The price of your renovation project will vary depending on what materials and finishes you decide on. To get a estimate price, have a look at our blog that covers renovation pricing in Auckland: https://superiorrenovations.co.nz/renovation-costs-auckland/
Is it cheaper to renovate or build a home?
The price for both options can vary, therefore, there is no definite answer. Make sure to discuss with a professional to get a quote.
How long does it take for a full home renovation?
The estimated time period for a full home renovation is 7-10 months.
Take advantage of our FREE Complete Home Renovation Guide (48 pages), whether you’re already renovating or in the process of deciding to renovate, it’s not an easy process, this guide which includes a free 100+ point check list – will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services, Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
Please note:Whilst all information is considered to be true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information. The information may change without notice and Superior Renovations is not in any way liabe for the accuracy of any information printed and stored or in any way interpreted and used by a user.
It can often be stated that the kitchen is the heart of the home as it’s where meals are created, and where friends and family gather to enjoy a wonderful home-cooked meal. When thinking about kitchen design NZ, always consider an entertainment factor as it is where everyone gathers. Designing kitchens for entertaining comes from an open kitchen layout as it makes the space feel more inviting.
Designing or upgrading your kitchen to your needs is important to make it perfect. Especially if you’re the type to host events at your house, the kitchen needs to accommodate for everything. An entertainment kitchen is the perfect type of kitchen for you if you love hosting events. This type of kitchen represents a space to welcome guests, cooking, eating and working from home. A kitchen has many uses so when making your kitchen design, consider all those factors.
In this article:
Design a kitchen for entertaining
Family kitchen design ideas
Top 8 Lighting Ideas
5 Tips to Design a Kitchen Layout
How to design a kitchen layout suited for an entertainment kitchen? If you’re considering an entertainment kitchen, consider the shape and size of a kitchen island or a breakfast bar. What kind of dining space you’d like to integrate and how much fridge and freezer space you’d need. As well as ensuring that there’s enough space for a general family/relaxing area. If you’re unsure of these factors, don’t worry! Our amazing in-house designer NZ can help guide you through the process.
Below, are some elements that we think you need when designing entertainment kitchen.
1. Make Space For a Drink’s Fridge
Making space in your kitchen design idea for a drink fridge can be essential for an entertainment kitchen. It’s incredibly useful to have a mini fridge for drinks, as it’d be easier and more comfortable for guests to grab a drink instead of looking through your fridge. Some people consider installing a wine fridge. While that can be quite an investment purchase, wine fridges aren’t for everybody so we suggest installing a mini fridge that can fit up to a variety of drinks ranging from water, soda drinks or alcohol.
If you have a walk in pantry, try including a fridge to utilise the space better. Of course, this doesn’t mean have a second big fridge in there as that’d take up unnecessary space. But opt for fridge drawers if you can to keep your fridge more organised. Having all these options for your kitchen design idea as it allows you to have enough space in your kitchen for catering options. As well as being able to accomodate your guests by having a drink station to keep guests comfortable when they grab their own drinks.
Mini Fridge for Drinks | Photo Credit – iStock
2. Make a Kitchen Island Central to Your Design
Having a kitchen island in your kitchen is essential and possibly the best decision you could make for your kitchen design. A kitchen island has many uses and is highly functional in kitchen design NZ. The island is where you can relax, catch up on newspapers, do homework, or even work from home sitting at your kitchen island. This is a feature for kitchen design NZ.
Not only that, but when friends and family come over it provides a space for everyone to catch up or play some card games. The island itself becomes the epicentre of the party as they can all gather around the island to have some party snacks.
Now, if the island is going to be constantly used for entertainment purposes. It’d be wise to consider purchasing extra bar stools for special occasions and you can keep them in storage. This would help ensure that your friends and family all have a seat and feel included during gatherings. For decorative purposes, consider some seasonal flower display, some candles or even some fairy lights will create a warm atmosphere.
One kitchen design NZ concept that is important to think about is kitchen lighting. Whilst you can design the perfect kitchen with our kitchen designer NZ, if your kitchen lighting is left as a last thought then it can ruin the look for your kitchen design idea. The perfect kitchen lighting for an entertainment kitchen is atmospheric mood lighting. An example of this would be a collection of candles and lanterns around the kitchen and also consider built in lighting in your kitchen design ideas.
When thinking of kitchen lighting, there are three different styles you need to consider. Task lighting, ambient lighting and accent lighting. Task lighting can help get rid of any dark corners on your countertop. Ambient lighting is there to help illuminate the room and create a modern kitchen look. When thinking of creating a modern kitchen design, consider recessed lighting. Accent lighting is purely decorative lighting like wall or pendant lights.
Example of kitchen lighting being used right to get rid of any dark corners
The key to any great kitchen, whether its open space or closed space kitchen is great air circulation/ventilation. Nobody wants last night’s food aroma to loiter around in the kitchen the next day. Which is why thinking about having good ventilation in the kitchen or around the house is important.
To improve ventilation in your kitchen, definitely consider using a range hood above the stovetop. You could also consider a ceiling-mounted extractor that you could put in the middle above your kitchen island. However if that is not within your budget cost, there are alternatives. Some of these alternatives are opening windows and doors when cooking to let some fresh air in or simply investing in an air purifier. Air purifiers help remove bad odours and is portable, so you can move it to any room you want whenever you want.
Seating is an important factor to consider in your entertainer kitchen design NZ. If you plan on throwing dinner parties and guests will be seated at the dining table for a long time. Comfort is important! Upholstered dining chairs should be considered as they can provide support that’s required for several courses.
To make use of your kitchen space, you could also consider a built-in seating for the dining table or consider a banquette seating idea. This can create the same effect and support as upholstered dining chairs and can be positioned alone a walk or linked to kitchen cabinetry. This could be a kitchen design idea to consider and make your kitchen feel more cozy.
With these seating kitchen design ideas, it presents and opportunity to bring in colour or patterns to your kitchen design scheme and could possibly enhance the decorative detail of your kitchen design NZ. Or provide an element to make give your kitchen a modern look for your modern kitchen design.
Example of seating in dining area | Photo Credit – Unsplash
6. Take Acoustics into Account
As kitchens mainly have hard surfaces, they could affect the acoustics of the room. When you’re entertaining and having guests over, there will most likely be music playing in the background or people talking to one another.
To solve this issue, consider soft surfaces and furnishing in your kitchen design ideas for your entertainment kitchen. This could be in the form of upholstered chairs, window treatments, or even rugs. Although, rugs would be best suited away from cooking and preparation areas. If you’re looking for kitchen flooring ideas, consider a timber floor instead of a tile as that will be softer underfoot.
How Do You Build A Kitchen Design For Entertaining?
Building a kitchen for entertaining is important to focus on the kitchen layout. You’d want to make sure that there is enough space for guests to sit comfortably, without getting in the way of anyone cooking. This could make you consider your kitchen layout by dividing the cooking and dining zones that include a kitchen island so that whoever is cooking can still socialise with their guests and not feel excluded.
When thinking about designing a kitchen for entertainment, making sure that seating is comfortable is another important factor to consider. Having seats that are comfortable will ensure that everyone can linger around the kitchen for longer.
One of the most popular kitchen design NZ style is a modern kitchen design. A modern kitchen is all about space. A space to cook, space to entertain and a space for family gatherings. The modern kitchen has many uses and would be great for hosting parties as they’re spacious. Creating a new kitchen design, is more than new appliances and cabinetry as nowadays there are many other factors to consider.
The biggest appeal for a kitchen is to be able to cook and be apart of the action when entertaining as everyone is included. For normal days, it’s a great setting for busy families to cook and help their kids with homework and be able to keep an out for their kids while preparing a meal.
Down below we have 11 kitchen design ideas that helps blend form and function
11 Kitchen Design That Blend Form and Function
1. Boost Storage In A Family Kitchen With A Beautiful Banquette
When designing your kitchen, you’d always want to make sure there is enough storage space for your kitchen appliances and utensils and other things you may need to store. This is where you might consider banquette seating. Combining function and form, banquette seating offers built-in seating for a dining nook in an open plan kitchen.
The banquette seating offers an opportunity for extra storage space. The storage space doesn’t just have to be for kitchen gadgets but it can be used for any storage needs. Like containers, toys, or even a little secret snack area.
2. Create A True Social Hub For Family Time
Open plan kitchen layouts are becoming trendy nowadays especially with a modern kitchen design style. Ditching the formal dining room, home office and sitting room. An open plan kitchen provides a large, multifunction space. The kitchen layout would be suitable and designed for everyone that can use it and make it the heart of your home.
Creating an open plan kitchen, helps make your family be more sociable. As parents are able to prepare meals while still being able to see and interact with their kids. Having this kitchen design ideas allows the host to interact with guests while preparing food and drinks when they have guests over. Having an open plan kitchen removes the walls which can make the room look bigger and provide additional space for people and furnishings.
When having an open plan kitchen, kitchen layout is important. Having a big space to decorate can be exciting yet stressful as you want to decorate it so the room doesn’t look empty. There is a general rule you may want to follow which is that the dining table shouldn’t be too far from the kitchen. Also ensure that there is a direct route from the table to the dishwasher to make is easier for cleaning.
Open plan kitchen, perfect for entertaining and being sociable while cooking
To achieve your perfect kitchen layout that avoids any obstructions and can provide the best access to frequently used ares like the fridge or the stove. It’s important to work with a kitchen designer NZ as they’re able to help bring your visions into a reality. Our kitchen designer NZ can help accommodate to your needs and give you the kitchen you’d want.
Focusing on distinct areas of your kitchen like cooking, dining and relaxing, will help you maintain order in an open plan kitchen or a multi-use family room. You can use different flooring, decorative light fittings or different kitchen colour schemes to help show the different rooms in one setting. This can be effective and won’t lose sight of the overall design cohesion.
To help visually tie the room together and keep it simple and uncluttered, consider coordinating the dining table top with the worktops. If you need more help our kitchen designers NZ will gladly help you out and guide you through it.
A kitchen island is always a great addition to kitchen design NZ and you should always consider having a kitchen island in your kitchen design. The island itself has many uses, from extra prep surface, a place for the sink, a place for friends and family to gather around. Put some bar stools, then it becomes a space when kids can do their homework and even where you could work. The island can also be used as another storage space area.
A suitable size for a kitchen island ranges from around 2m to 3m long and around 1.1m to 1.4m wide. Any wider can create wasted space in the centre. Although the sizing may depend on how much space your kitchen has. You should always allow at least 1m of space around the island. Remember that not all barstools tuck right in, so measure correctly.
At some point, we always end up running out of storage, which is why in your kitchen design you should always think about ways you can add drawers and be able to utilise space. Consider open shelving on your kitchen walls as not only can it create space but it can also be visually appealing. You can add decorations onto the open shelving which can add a theme to your kitchen.
Example of creating a smart storage solution in kitchen pantry
Ever since the pandemic hit and we’ve all be stuck at home and having to work remotely. We’ve had to find a place for us to work. Most times if we don’t have a home office, it would be working at the dining table or somewhere near the kitchen if not in the kitchen. Which is why it’s important to make your kitchen feel welcoming while also having them to be sleek, smart and functional.
When thinking about your kitchen design, consider the aspect of having to work from home to make your kitchen suitable for you to do that. This could be where a kitchen island might come in handy with bar stools as it could be a place where you work. It’s also a good place for household admin, and become a work station that is designed to complement your kitchen.
7. Put Functionality At The Heart Of Your Kitchen
A kitchen has many uses. It’s an ample space for entertaining, generous storage and room for family gatherings. It’s the heart of your home. Making your kitchen function is the number one priority when thinking about your kitchen design and kitchen layout. Having a big kitchen can create layout issues. Large kitchens can be overwhelming to design and if your kitchen layout isn’t planned properly, it can result in a lot of unnecessary travel.
The best way to create a kitchen layout in a large kitchen is to add a kitchen island. This is a popular solution and can perform a variety of functions therefore making your kitchen functional. In a large room, or an open plan kitchen it acts as a bridge between furniture. Improving the work triangle and allowing more than one cook in the kitchen to work comfortable side-by-side. So if you enjoy teaching your kids how to cook or cooking with your significant other without getting in each others way. This would be perfect.
Kitchen flooring is also another priority when thinking about your kitchen design. You’d want flooring that last long and not ones that would chip or break easily. Kitchen flooring have to be incredibly tough to stand up to dirt and knocks in a family kitchen.
Natural stone flooring can be something you could consider for your kitchen design as they are the most forgiving floor coverings if the right stone and finish are chosen. Some stones can be denser than others and all flooring will be subject to a little wear and tear over the years.
However, if you have children, porcelain tile may be another flooring style you might consider for your kitchen design. Porcelain tile is non-porous and can provide a strain proof option which is wise if you have children that are creative and often make a mess. Easy to clean up and leave no stain behind.
Examples of Kitchen Tiles That You Could Consider | Photo Credit – iStock
9. Light The Way
Kitchen lighting is a vital part of any successful kitchen design scheme and is important when it comes to designing an entertainment kitchen or a family kitchen or kitchens in general. Using task lighting above your kitchen island can help create a characterful lighting serve. It helps light up the whole island and provide as a decorative function when combined with materials like marble tops and metallic accents.
10. Go For A Dark Colour On Cabinetry
To bring some colour into your kitchen design, opt for using dark colours on your cabinetry as it can create a bold and interesting family kitchen space. For a kitchen design ideas it’s often tempting to use an all-dark paint scheme. But for sociable spaces like the kitchen, a balanced approach can be more suited.
A benefit of having dark cabinetry, is that it can help hide any fingerprints, stains, or scuff marks that may occur over time. Having good natural sunlight in your kitchen design can also help bring out the colour in a dark shade.
Banquette seatings beats dining chairs when you consider your kitchen seating idea. Banquette seatings help save space and can also seat large number of people when you have guests over or host family events.
Usually, with dining chairs the rule is to leave around 90cm between a chair and the next piece of furniture or wall. But with banquette seating you can reduce that down to 30cm, especially if the seat fits onto the wall. Not only do they save space, but they can also accommodate more people. It’s perfect for birthday parties and family gatherings and make photos look better as there are no chairs in the picture. Consider banquette seating in your kitchen design if possible.
How Do You Design A Family Kitchen?
There are many needs and uses when it comes to a family kitchen. In your kitchen design, you’d have to think about the kitchen layout, where you cook, eat, and to entertain. Even if you have a large kitchen, the meal prep, cook and cleaning areas will always be close together for better efficiency.
The amount of work surface area you need, depends on you and your family needs. It’s important to have enough worktop for meal prep as well as when you’re cooking with others. A family kitchen can be designed for entertainment use as everyone is willing to help cook. It’s become the new normal to be sociable while cooking and entertaining guests at the same time. It’s also a great space to multitask and catch up with one another while preparing food.
Our Top 8 Lighting Ideas for your Kitchen Design
Kitchen lighting can often be left as a last thought and that is a mistake many people make. Lighting brings the room together and can help transform your kitchen. For example, a contemporary kitchen requires a layered and responsive lighting scheme that can keep up with the changing demands throughout the day.
Having an expansive glass door and skylight in a large kitchen will flood the space with natural light, making the room look bigger. Task lighting can be used for prep areas and ambient lighting for social spaces.
For a modern kitchen design, the lighting helps create depth, marking out different zones and help create a clear and safe passage though the space. The different types of lighting that can be used is general, task, ambient and decorative lighting in your modern kitchen design. Since some kitchens may require lots of light switches it would be easier if you brought smart lights which can be controlled though your phone, making it easier for you to turn the lights on and off. When it comes to lighting, consider the warmth of the bulb as the cooler end gives brilliant task lighting. While warmer whites can make a seating area feel more inviting.
Down below is our top 8 lighting ideas to include in your kitchen design.
1. Install An Eye-Catching Modern Lighting Centrepiece
Installing an eye catching modern lighting centrepiece is designed to create ambient lighting and the the purpose of a lighting centrepiece is to draw attention to the kitchen island. The centrepiece helps give the kitchen a living rom appeal, rather than to provide practical task lighting.
Example of task lighting to draw attention to island | Photo Credit – Unsplash
2. Make The Best Use Of Down-lights
Ceiling down-lights are a popular solution for general lighting for your modern kitchen design. You’re able to turn them up for when you want to clean the room. Or dim them down to create a softer mood. With down-lights, you’d want to create an even spread of light. You might have to accommodate if you have a skylight, or TV screen that could affect the lighting. You’d also want to avoid putting down-lights right next to a pendant or hard up against a wall cabinet.
Example of Downlights in a Kitchen | Photo Credit – iStock
3. Layer Light
A complex room, like a living-kitchen open floor-plan requires different light levels for a range of activities. Nobody likes a dimly lit work area. Which is why when you think about your modern kitchen design. Make sure to position spotlights or pendants directly above key areas in your living-kitchen room. This will ensure that light isn’t blocked when you stand or work around your kitchen.
Example of task, ambient and accent lighting in a kitchen | Photo Credit – Unsplash
4. Tackle Task Lighting
Task lighting is an important feature to add to your kitchen. As they can be discreet and hidden under wall cupboards or shelving. But you can also create a nice centrepiece feature that can be angled to direct brightness where it’s needed.
5. Consider Low Light Sources
LED strips can help provide a soft low light that can be useful to direct traffic through the kitchen space. Some LED strips can be controlled with a remote and can change colours creating a different atmosphere in the kitchen. You could also wow your guests with different colours. It’s like a party! Putting a subtle glow beneath your counter will encourage your guest to pull up a seat or gather around.
6. Light The Inside Of Cabinetry
Having light inside of your cabinet can be a key component for your modern kitchen design as they provide soft, ambient lighting. It helps bring display back into the kitchen and create an opportunity of soft diffused light. Which can help create a focal point in your modern kitchen design and help brighten up darker corners of the room.
Lighting in shelves/pantry | Photo Credit – Unsplash
7. ‘Wash’ Cabinetry With Lighting
Another kitchen lighting to consider is to use track lighting and up-lights to wash surfaces with a soft reflective light. This can be linked back to using down-lights as you should only place them where light is required as part of your kitchen lighting scheme. Consider using a low glare directional downlight to direct light to wash the front of your kitchen. Added bonus is that when you open your cupboards, it will also light the inside of it up.
8. Ask An Expert In Modern Kitchen Lighting Design
If you’re confused and wondering how to plan your kitchen lighting that fits your kitchen design. Consider asking a kitchen designer or the kitchen designer you’re working with to help you. They’ll be able to help you balance a range of sources into a cohesive scheme to enhance your space. You can’t go wrong with asking for help as designers are there to help you bring your visions into a reality.
4 Modern Kitchen Lighting Tips For Your Modern Kitchen Design
1. Create Light Reflections
In your modern kitchen design, opt for pale countertops in a darker kitchen as that will help create light reflection in your kitchen. Pale colours and reflective surfaces will amplify the glow, while dark shades absorb light. Having dark shades that absorb light can be advantageous as it can help create mood or create a different atmosphere.
Example of light reflection in the kitchen | Photo Credit – Unsplash
2. Light Beyond Your Modern Kitchen
As you know, having skylights or walls of glass can provide plenty of natural sunlight into your kitchen during the day. But can turn into black holes at night. Consider running strip LEDs in a skylight recesses as well as great outdoor lighting ideas. This will help create a light show in the garden beyond the glass. And help get rid of the black hole.
3. Choose Discreet Modern Kitchen Lighting Ideas
There are many lighting options that you could consider in your kitchen design that can be discreet. Spotlights aren’t the only solution for directional light. There is an exhaust light, which has a smart tubular design that comes in two colours for a powder-coated casing and four metallic options or the trim. Lighting options that go with your kitchen design aesthetics.
Example of modern kitchen lighting ideas | Photo Credit – Unsplash
4. Use Modern Kitchen Lighting To Play With Room Proportions
If you have a large kitchen or a kitchen with high ceilings. Don’t just leave that ceiling space empty. Complete the kitchen look by choosing a modern kitchen light fitting that helps tie your kitchen together. Choosing a modern molecular lighting with multiple bulbs, that shine their light in all directions may be a suitable option for your modern kitchen design. This is best suited to be installed over an island or dining table to create a focal point.
5 Tips For A Kitchen Design Layout
As a first time homeowner there are many questions that you have in mind before starting to renovate your kitchen. How to design a kitchen? How to design a kitchen layout? Which kitchen layout is best suited for you? There are many questions and research involved before you start. There are many kitchen design NZ and kitchen designers NZ that are able to help answer your questions and help guide you through the process.
But, to further your research more. We have come up with 7 tips that you should consider in designing your kitchen layout. These tips would help answer you question on how to design a kitchen layout and how to design a kitchen as well.
1. Create a Wishlist
To begin, start by creating a wishlist and writing down all the features you’d like in your dream kitchen. It’s a chance to create a brand new room that is fitted more towards your needs and build a new space that you love. There are many kitchen layout NZ ideas that you might have in mind for your kitchen. Also reflect on what isn’t working in your current kitchen to avoid having it in your new kitchen.
You can also include intangible ideas on your wishlist which our kitchen designers NZ can help with and give suggestions when needed. These intangible ideas could be mixed materials cabinetry, different countertop finishes, etc. To gather more inspiration you can look on Pinterest on look at our case studies and see how previous clients have designed their kitchen layout NZ. The more you see other kitchen design NZ, the more you’ll know what kind of kitchen style you’re after.
2. Set a Kitchen Design Budget
It’s important to set up a kitchen design budget as kitchen costs need to be clearly defined at the start of your project. How much are you willing to spend? You’d also want to set aside some money just incase there are any unforeseen costs or any problems that may occur during the process. At Superior Renovations, you don’t need to worry about paying separately for plumbing, wiring, or labour as that is included in our renovation process.
How to design a kitchen layout isn’t just about working a layout that fits the space but more-so on how you can use the room as well. How to design a kitchen layout that you can use the space? Carefully think about how you wish to use the space and your requirement. Nowadays our kitchen is the heart of our homes as it’s a place where we cook, eat, and entertain. Also a place to sit and work. Our kitchen designers NZ say that kitchen layout NZ should have the prep, cook, and wash areas close together in a kitchen to make the space more efficient. This will help avoid any run ins and save time especially in a large kitchen.
Example of how to utilise space for an entertainment kitchen | Photo Credit – Unsplash
4. Measure Up
Kitchen nowadays perform a variety of roles like family dining, relaxing, working, and entertaining. It’s important to have a good kitchen layout that have adequate storage as having enough storage space in your kitchen is important. You’d want to ensure that you can fit everything you want in your kitchen. But that all depends on accurate measuring which our kitchen designers NZ would be able to do during their consult with you.
If you’re thinking about having a kitchen island in your kitchen design, make sure to precisely measure the floor so that the island can fit comfortably within your space. When placed, it should leave enough floor space for you to maneuver around the entire space.
5. Consider the Perfect Layout
Choosing the perfect layout for your kitchen begs the questions as to how to design a kitchen layout. Looking at kitchen layout NZ ideas would be a starting point to start the journey of designing your kitchen. Making your kitchen efficient and maximising the space can make time spent in the kitchen more enjoyable. In your layout try to put your sink, refrigerator, and oven within easy reach of one another. In your kitchen layout, consider natural light and seating areas are best placed near windows.
Kitchen design ideas can be overwhelming as there are many different ideas that fit into your aesthetic. Creating your dream kitchen can be exhausting as you’d want it to be perfect and practical for you and your family. Designing an entertainment kitchen requires a lot of thinking and can be quite an investment to make. But it’s an investment that’s going to do wonders for your home.
Having a read through this blog would have given you more information and more insight on designing an entertainment kitchen and creating a family kitchen. With wonderful advice from our designer NZ and tips to create better lighting in your kitchen design idea as lighting is an important factor to consider. Our kitchen design NZ will be sure to help give you an idea and provide inspiration for you. Have a read, have a browse and start designing!
Already have all your own trades and you’re comfortable managing them for your kitchen renovation?
Although we don’t recommend if you haven’t renovated a kitchen before and/or you don’t have trades people you can trust, most renovations if not all comes with it’s own surprises because not all homes are the same – this is where experience/project management plays an important role in minimises risks to maintain costs/delays giving you higher certainty of outcome/quality backed by associated guarantees and warranties.
However, if you do intend to manage the kitchen renovation yourself, it does work out more cost effective to contact a kitchen cabinetry manufacturer directly to get the kitchen cabinets designed, manufactured and installed – leaving you to manage the other trades such as flooring, demolition, painting, plastering, splashback/tiling, electrician, plumber, and sometimes a carpenter/builder.
Try Little Giant Interiors cost calculator below to see what you can expect to pay for cabinetry.
In our digital world, technology is constantly changing and getting better which should come as no surprise that people have invented ways to make our homes smarter and our lives easier. But if you’re still unsure about investing into smart homes, then this article is perfect for you. There are plenty of benefits to having a smart home, keep reading to find out more!
Smart homes may seem convenient for others, but others may also struggle with the idea of smart homes. Smart homes are a huge change and can impact how you and your family live for the next few years. When considering your kitchen or bathroom renovation and design consider installing some smart home appliances.
Curious about smart bulbs or exploring the new amazing capabilities of your new voice assistant? There are many researches that can be found on smart homes NZ and how you can make your house a smart home. Best thing about it, is that you don’t need a full house renovation to make your house a smart home. Having some kitchen design ideas with smart solution home ideas can work wonders in just one room. This can be done in many ways and you’ve probably come across two keywords that is repeated in all your research findings. Smart home and home automation. So what are the differences between those two key terms?
If you assume that these two terms are somewhat similar, you are correct! These two terms are closely related, but they do refer to different things that makes them different from one another.
Smart homes in NZ refers to electronic devices and sensors that can be controlled over the internet or your own local network like your phone, computer and other devices. These devices most often have their own separate app that you’d use to control within certain ecosystem. And it also doesn’t require a full home renovation for it to work. For example, Alexa is a home assistant smart device that you can set up and make it towards your liking. As Alexa is a part of Amazon, there is a separate app needed in order to set up you Alexa.
Home automation refers to a methodology for using smart home devices. The purpose of home automation is to make devices work automatically so that it can response to what you’re doing. While also requiring little to no interaction with any app or physical interface as we try to incorporate this into smart homes NZ.
For example, Philips Hue smart bulbs. You can set them up to a certain ‘scene’ or lighting for a movie night. With a smart home, you’ll open your smart home app to adjust the lighting. But, with home automation, you can set up an automation that can detect when you’re watching a movie and adjust the lights for you. While this can be done to any room you pick, consider going for a full home renovation to be able to have all those nice features in every room.
Content:
7 Benefits of having a Smart Home
Cost of Setting up and Running a Smart Home
How to get started on a Basic Smart home
Top 4 energy efficient Smart appliances
Creating Smart bathrooms
The future of Smart Kitchens in NZ
Tips to have a secure smart home security system
Our top 4 automation systems
7 Benefits of Having a Smart Home in NZ
1. Entertainment
The main form of entertainment we indulge in nowadays is connecting our streaming services to our Tv’s. Which provides you with a bigger screen to watch your favourite movie or tv show on. When first starting to invest in smart homes, Google Chromecast or Apple TV is a good starting point. These are smart home gadgets which can be controlled via voice if you have a compatible smart assistant. Not only is it exclusive to watching movies and tv shows, it’s also another way to blast your music while doing chores.
Example of Chromecast/Apple Tv
2. General Appliances
There are many appliances that be control towards your smart home and make your life easier. There are a huge variety of smart appliances that you could choose from. Few examples are fridges, ovens, heaters, air conditioners, which those appliances are able to give you notifications. A popular appliance that most people have in their homes are automatic vacuums which will send you a notification once it’s finished or if it’s stuck somewhere in the house. Some appliances can be controlled on your phone or by using voice commands. Voice commands only work if you have a smart device, like Alexa or Google Assistant.
3. Lighting and Temperature Control
Are you all comfy and warm in your bed but forgot to turn the lights off? With your smart home appliances like purchasing smart lights, you can turn the lights off from your phone and stay in your cocoon of warmth. Having a smart thermostat in your household can also be controlled from your phone or using voice command.
4. Home Security
Security plays a huge part in our lives as we want to keep our belongings secure. With a smart home, you’re able to control your gates from your phone. Install cameras which you can also see from your phone and purchase a smart doorbell which comes with a camera. Works best if you’re connected with Wi-Fi.
5. Sustainability
Smart home appliances are environmentally friendly and can be sustainable for you as there are gadgets and appliances that can track your energy usage and water consumption. This can help you use less energy and water.
6. Remote Access
The best thing about investing into a smart home is that everything can be controlled from your phone no matter where you are as long as you have a strong internet connection. Think you left the lights on while you’re on vacation? Worry no more because with remote access, you’re able to turn the lights off from your phone.
Remote Access through your smart phone | Photo Credit – iStock
7. Accessibility
Smart homes are easy to use and accessible to everyone. This can be extremely helpful with people who have a disability as they can use voice commands to turn things on and off and be able to control things without having to get up.
Cost of Setting up & Running a Smart Home
With upgrading your house, there will always be associated costs and creating a smart home is no different. Smart homes NZ do have smart home appliances and smart home technology that do cost significantly more due to the lack of interest and popularity in them. But it’s been predicted that these prices may drop and become more popular in the next few years. Running a smart home can also be costly as you’re introducing more powered devices to your house. Look at it this way, buying a house is an investment. Doing a full home renovation so that you love your house even more is also an investment. Setting up a smart home is also an investment.
Setup Costs
Setting up your smart home NZ or purchasing your very first smart home technology can cost significantly more than ordinary items that does the exact same things but with manual assistant. An example of this could be having LED bulbs. LED bulbs can range between $10 – $20. Whereas smart bulbs can range from $30 – $40. A little jump in price but it’s enough reason as to why consumers prefer not to adopt in smart home technology.
Running Costs
It’s no secret that having a smart home will incur additional running costs to your power bill. However, with intelligent choices and enough research, you can reduce your costs and lower you water and electricity usage.
Taking your time and carefully considering when choosing your smart home technology, setting up and managing your IoT (Internet of Things) appliances can have a positive impact on the cost in smart homes NZ.
Do Smart Homes Save Money?
Smart homes can indeed save money. As said before having a smart home is an investment that can pay off in the long run. To save money you’ll need to set up and manage the devices correctly. When setting up your smart home devices or items. Consider on-time and power consumption. Creating smart solution homes by choosing energy efficient smart homes technology. When you do a full home renovation, we encourage you to think about incorporating smart solution ideas in your full home renovation.
When purchasing smart bulbs, consider buying the more energy efficient LED lights. With many researches, LED lights are shown to be the better option as they run cooler, use less energy and last longer than incandescent bulbs. Studies have found that LED bulbs use between 75% and 80% less energy than an incandescent bulb.
Another benefit to encourage you to use LED bulbs is the extended lifetime they have. Most if not all LED bulbs have around 25,000 hours of life. Compared to incandescent bulb which can last around 1000 hours.
As said earlier, LED bulbs are significantly cooler than incandescent. Incandescent bulbs in the house can slowly increase the ambient temperature of the house, increasing the costs of cooling the house. When thinking about a full home renovation, consider opting for LED bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs in smart homes NZ.
Another way a smart home can help you save money is investing in purchasing a smart thermostat which can help you save on energy bills. Smart thermostats can allow excellent control over heating and cooling the house and you’re able to monitor the temperature with your phone.
How to Get Started with a Basic Smart Home?
Starting to move towards having a smart home is very exciting no matter if it’s one smart item or multiple smart items. But if you are looking to create an 100% smart home. It’s important to plan it out and consider smart home technology and smart solution homes. Which can help you get the best possible solution for your budget.
Planning
Thinking of having a smart home? But not sure where to start? There are many smart devices that is advertised to you. But not all of them are the right fit for you or your house. This is where planning becomes a vital stage of creating a smart home. There are many tools to help with this process and make your planning easier.
Firstly, you’d want to do research in which smart home device is compatible with your home. Start by writing down the different devices that would work well with your house. If there’s too many options, consider a pros and cons list of them all.
Secondly, you’d want to decide where you’ll place the device. The most popular place that people put their smart devices is usually in the living room or the kitchen. This is due to having easy access to power outlets. Some smart devices also have a wired network capability and can often work better when wired.
Once that is all sorted, you can go ahead and set up your smart device. You’d want to set up schedules which can help reduce your energy bills as well as playing around with it to get more comfortable with the app. Trying out all the features that your smart device can provide. This is a great way to slowly inch your way to making you house a smart house with smart home technology.
Installing
When it comes to setting up smart devices that are somewhat like Amazon Alexa, they are easy to set up. But with smart bulbs and smart outlets, it can be a different story entirely. If you need help installing new outlets or needing new cable runs. It’s the safest choice for you to hire an electrician who can do all the electrical work.
Top 4 Recommended Energy Efficient Appliances
1. Smart Thermostats
When renovating your house, consider purchasing a smart thermostat for your house. Or if you’re designing your house, switch out your old thermostat for a smart thermostat. This can help cut down on energy consumption. Smart thermostats help regulate and automate your heating and cooling. They can also be controlled from your phone.
Smart Thermostat which can be controlled from phone | Photo Credit – iStock
2. Smart Lighting
When designing your house, consider purchasing smart lighting that can connect to your smart home device. Having smart lights in your smart home means you can schedule when the lights turn on and off. Switching to LED bulbs will also help reduce your energy usage.
When considering your kitchen design, opt for a smart fridge as they are energy efficient and come with heaps of benefits. A smart fridge gives you an option to write a virtual bulletin board for your family with a ‘to do list’, reminders or quote of the day. Sick of having expired food in your fridge? With the smart fridge, the appliance is able to keep track of expiration dates, so you don’t waste any food.
Thinking of making your house more modern? Consider switching some outlets to smart outlets to make your house eco-friendly. Normal outlets constantly drain energy even when you aren’t using it and to stop it from draining energy, you’ll have to turn the outlet off. Not everyone has time to turn the outlet on and off everything. With the smart outlet, they automatically detect when you aren’t using it and cuts the power off. This is a great way to be more energy efficient.
How to Secure Your Smart Home Security? 5 Essential Tips
1. Set up your router correctly
A key tip when thinking about securing your smart home security is understanding that your Wi-Fi router is the doorway to your smart home. Setting up your router correctly by following all instructions and these tips will secure your home security. Therefore, eliminating the threat of a possible hacker.
2. Change the routers default name
It’s important to change your router name as keeping it as the default name will make it easier for people to find default login details. Using the default name will make it easier for others to gain access to your smart home. When changing the router name, be creative and remember to leave personal details out.
3. Set the password to something unique
Include capital letters, numbers and symbols in your password which can create a super strong password for your smart home security. You can also consider using a random password generator if you can’t come with anything. The generator will provide you options and be sure to write the password down somewhere in case you forget it.
4. Disable features you don’t use
There are many features that come with a smart device, and most times you’ll end up only using a few things. Be sure to disable any feature you don’t need like voice control on certain features. This is because if someone hacks into your smart device, they’re able to listen to your conversations and hear everything you say. Therefore, disabling features, you don’t use, eliminates the threat of that problem.
5. Enable multi-factor authentication
Enable a multi-factor authentication onto your smart home device is a great way to increase security and prevent others from hacking your smart home device. The best two factor authentication to use for a smart device is sending a verification code to your mobile device to gain access to the smart home device. As we always have our phone on us, if you get sent a verification code that you’re unsure off you can change the password on your smart home device or improve the security.
Benefits of Installing Smart Kitchen Appliances
1. Smart devices provide useful notifications
With technology growing, smart appliances are becoming trendy and somewhat useful. Based on the smart appliances you have, they’re able to send you notifications to let you know if you didn’t close the fridge properly, or if the dishwasher is finished. Mundane tasks that could let you get on with other things you need to do without worrying if you left the fridge open or not as your smart appliances or devices will send you a notification.
With smart appliances and smart devices, they’ll let you know if they’re malfunctioning, and you’ll be able to get them fixed before they actually break.
Notification received on phone
2. Energy efficient appliances cut costs
Although smart appliances are more expensive than normal household appliances, they’re a good investment to make when creating a smart home. Not only are you just investing in the appliance itself, but you’re also investing into the software and technology that is integrated into the appliance.
Smart kitchen appliances can help you track your energy consumption by letting you know which is using the most energy to help you cut cost. These smart kitchen appliances can be monitor on a regular daily basis from your phone.
3. Cooking made easy
With having a smart kitchen, it makes cooking easier as there are some smart kitchen appliances that lets you know important information. An example of this would be letting you know the perfect temperature for cooked meat which will eliminate any food poisoning. This makes preparing food safer.
There are some smart ovens that don’t require you to sit around the kitchen and keep an eye on the oven to make sure your food isn’t burning. The smart oven itself will cook your dish for you and then put it on ‘warming mode’ until you’re ready to eat. There are many benefits to having smart appliances in your kitchen and this is one of them.
Example of a small smart oven | Photo Credit – iStock
4. Less worry when you’re on vacation
Constantly think someone is going to break into your house when you’re on vacation? With your smart home, you’ll be able to keep an eye on your home and eliminate any worries you might have. Having smart lights in your smart home will make your house feel less empty when you’re on vacation. Which can give an illusion of someone being home because the lights are on since smart lights are accessible from your device.
5. Smart Appliances
Some great smart appliances to add to your smart home kitchen are smart dishwashers and smart refrigerators. Smart refrigerators have a camera in the inside so, when shopping for groceries you’ll know what you need. Having a smart refrigerator also helps monitor and control energy usage and sends you a notification letting you know if there is a power outage or if you didn’t close the door properly.
A great feature that is included in a smart dishwasher is that if there were a leak, the dishwasher would let you know. Smart dishwashers stop working once it detects a leak and shut themselves off to protect flooring. Which is helpful as you’re able to get that fixed asap. These are some essential items to think about having in your smart home.
Example of having a smart dishwasher and features | Photo Credit – iStock
How to Create a Smart Bathroom? 6 Tips to Help.
1. Voice control in the bathroom
With your smart device, you’re able to take advantage of using voice commands when showering or too busy to do it yourself. You can use your smart devices to adjust smart lighting or to change music. The best thing about this is that you can use any smart device to do this. Using a virtual digital assistant helps add another layer of convenience to your smart home and make your bathroom design more luxurious.
2. Smart shower
Are you always waiting for your shower to heat up before jumping in? With smart showers you don’t have to wait for the shower to heat up. Smart showers let you adjust the temperature towards your liking, so you can step into the shower with the perfect water temperature. Another benefit of a smart shower is that you can adjust a time limit for your shower to ensure that you’re not late for anything. Smart showers help lower your water usage and smart showers also come with Bluetooth speakers which can connect to your phone. Have a shower, have a party, have a concert.
3. Soaking tubs
Having a smart bathroom doesn’t always have to mean having smart appliances or a smart device. Creating a smart bathroom can be from how you design the space and keeping bathroom accessories organized. Standalone soaking tubs are a great way to help eliminate clutter in your bathroom. Having a standalone soaking tub in your bathroom will help replicate the experience of a spa treatment. If your bathroom has space, consider purchasing a standing bathtub in your bathroom design.
Although our past renovated bathrooms don’t feature all smart bathroom appliances and gadgets. The most popular item that most bathroom renovations are standalone tubs or soaking tubs. Check out a few of our bathroom renovations with a standalone bathtub below!
Bidets have been around for a while now, most popular in Japan. Although people see bidets as a luxury product and unusual to have in your home. When thinking of 21st century toilets, there are more products that aren’t bidets. So, if bidets aren’t your thing, don’t worry. There are other ways to smarten up your bathroom.
Smart toilets have motion sensors that can put the toilet seat up or down, depending on your preference. Some toilets will automatically flush on its own once you’ve finished your business. There are also smart toilets that can self-clean. Some benefits of having a smart toilet are that they’re environmentally friendly, reduce the risk of overflowing and some smart toilets can instantly clean themselves. This will definitely add a new element into your smart home. Consider them in your bathroom design.
Example of Bidet in Bathroom | Photo Credit: Reece
5. Intelligent faucets
Smart faucets have been around for a while and some shopping malls have implemented them into public toilets. This is a great idea nowadays as it reduces the risk of and germs and bacteria spreading as those faucets are motion sensor. Consider smart faucets in your bathroom design. Having a smart faucet in your smart home will help lower your water usage and saves energy. Also eliminates bacteria spreading around the house if someone in the family is sick.
6. Design
Want a smart bathroom but on a budget? There are many different ways that you can create a smart bathroom without purchasing all the smart bathroom appliances. You can create a smart bathroom by purchasing small gadgets like a smart outlet to start off with. Changing your bathroom fixtures and fittings is a great way to create a smart bathroom without all the expensive appliances. Consider fittings and fixtures that can make your bathroom look smart in your bathroom design.
Example of a smart bathroom design | Photo Credit – iStock
Kitchen technology has always been in the works since our technology has become more advanced. As it helps reduce the amount of work that we need to do in the kitchen. Since kitchen appliances have been around for a very long time, it’s hard to make changes to making your kitchen smarter. As decades go past, the design and style of kitchen appliances have become smarter, sleeker, and more energy efficient. Over the years there has been plenty of changes to create smart homes technology as well as coming up with smart solution homes to make life easier. Especially more creative ideas for small kitchen design as not everyone has the luxury of having a big kitchen.
High – tech Kitchen Trends
As often stated, the kitchen is the heart of the home. In your kitchen design idea, make sure to spend extra time making sure that the kitchen is perfect for your needs. As it is the heart of the home, we often spend a lot of time in there. Not only does it serve as a place where you cook, but a place where everyone can gather and where you can entertain guests. Or cooking a meal but also feeling included with friends and family. How to design a kitchen that can incorporate all these things? Smart home technology has come a long way and there are now smart kitchen appliances that you can purchase. Incorporate them into your kitchen design idea.
Total Integration and Automation
Due to the pandemic, everyone has spent most of the year stuck in their house. Some may have discovered that their house was lacking a bit in terms of entertainment and caring for their needs. It’s safe to say that we’ve had those days where we just want to be lazy. Having smart home technology can really help with being lazy on those days. Having total integration of your smart home devices will mean that you can control every smart home technology from your phone.
Smart homes NZ will need to have smart solution homes so that your device connected to smart home technology is flexible. Instead of having a full home renovation to make your smart home flexible. You can start small and consider kitchen design ideas to make space for smart home technology. Smart devices can be customised and will become more popular in the next few years to come.
Disaster Preparation
Due to climate change and the constant increase temperature of our planet, can cause natural disasters to happen more often. Homeowners are looking to be prepared for whatever my strike. We’d want to feel safe and comfortable knowing that we can survive instead our homes for an extended period. Which is ironic as many if not all of us have stayed in our houses for months, only leaving for groceries. Having these smart solution homes can help make your house more fun and enjoyable to live in if we were to be stuck inside for a long period of time.
To prepare, people are thinking how to design a kitchen? Sure, you’re current kitchen is fine but if you’re looking for an upgrade, you’d want to start thinking about small kitchen designs or kitchen design ideas based on how big your kitchen is.
Purchasing water storage systems, backup generators for refrigerators, long term food storage areas ad solar water heaters are becoming more popular for the unforeseeable future. Some research says that in the upcoming years. As we move into more of a technology age, new builds will also have some technology integrated into the houses to meet homeowners’ desires.
Self – Cleaning
We love a clean house. But sometimes it can be hard to motivate yourself to clean the house. With smart home technology, there will soon be more smart solution home ideas to make cleaning easier. With touchless appliances, robot vacuums with built – in mops and be able to introduce more voice control integration. That way you can just shout out to your smart device to start the vacuum and the vacuum starts. How cool is that! Especially if you need small kitchen design idea to make your kitchen more interesting. Having self-cleaning appliances are perfect for the lazy days.
Ever since the pandemic hit, we’ve been cleaning more often and sanitising everything. Not only that but we’ve been spending a whole year at home and more cautious around frequently touched surfaces in public spaces. How to design a kitchen that can also help reduce the spread of germs? Having smart home technology can help enable consumers to have touchless access and be able to control stuff straight from their mobile devices or through voice commands. This smart home solution will make your house even more safer during high risk times and more convenient for you.
Going Green
Nowadays, we are trying our best to reduce our environmental footprint. Therefore, resulting in kitchen design ideas that will ensure having a greener kitchen. Having a greener kitchen is expected to be the next upcoming trend for future kitchen design trends. Which you can think about adding in your small kitchen design idea. This is due to having more appliances that will be more sustainable and efficient.
Smart homes NZ requires smart solution home ideas to reduce your environmental footprint by purchasing smart home technology this is more efficient. Although having smart home technology uses power to work, you may be worried about your utility bill going up. But that’s not the case. Using smart appliances in smart homes NZ can help you reduce your utility bill due to them being energy efficient.
Devices to Expect in Kitchens of the Future
As we move more into the future, our technology will only gross and become more advance. Down below we have found 6 high tech that are already here or for the future that will make your time in the kitchen more fun. And what you can expect your smart home to look like in the next decade or so?
1. Countertop Projector
Countertop project has been introduced to the world for the last decade or so but not many people are interested in it. As it’s still in the works and coming up with ways to make it better. Here is just a few reasons as to why you should get one for your smart home technology. This device allows you to control other appliances, scan the thickness of food as well as being able to get tips on how to cook certain items.
Another added benefit is that the countertop project doesn’t take up any counter space as we all know counter space is crucial. It can also help improve your cooking and baking skill. When thinking about your kitchen design ideas, consider having a countertop projector to make your cookier easier. Unfortunately, there aren’t as many options available to purchase from in New Zealand so further research is needed.
Countertop projector can be small which is perfect for a small kitchen design as storage space is super important in a small kitchen design as you’d want to ensure that your kitchen is perfect.
2. Steam Oven
If you’re not a big fan of cooking, you’d love learning about smart solution home idea to make your cooking easier. This is where steam ovens come in. Steam cooking is becoming the healthier alternative to other cooking methods. Like frying or baking. Using the steam oven still provides the same taste as how you’ll cook it normally. This will eliminate the unnecessary oil that pops up when you cook.
An advantage of using a steam oven is that it’s energy efficient and have an energy efficient consumption system. With the steam oven, it can also cook your food faster than regular ovens which also helps you save energy. If you’re having a late dinner, using a steam oven would be more efficient as you won’t have to wait long to cook the food you’d want to eat.
3. Smart Scales
If you’re interested in eating healthy or staring a new diet like going on a calorie deficit. The smart scale may be able to help you out. Not only does a smart scale tell you how much something weighs but they can break down it’s nutritional value. So, you won’t have to search it up as it’s right there in front of you.
In some cases, you can even use the smart scale to weigh your entire meal and get all the nutritional value of it. If set up right, you may even be able to connect the smart scale with your favourite nutritional app to keep track. It’s small and light, which is perfect for a small kitchen design as you’d want to utilise all the space available.
4. Digital Backsplashes
In a small kitchen design, the most important thing is space. And knowing how to utilise the space. Having a digital backsplash instead of tiled backsplashes would prove more useful. Sure, it’s a bit expensive to have a digital backsplash but in the end, it’d be money well spent. This smart home technology can allow you to watch tv, look up recipes and be able to control your other smart home appliances.
Feeling bored of your tiled backsplash? With the digital backsplash you can change it to whatever you want. Whether that is photos of friends and family or artwork. Something that suits your aesthetic or mood of the day. you can. Change you backsplash every single day if you’d life. No need to go shopping and spending more money to change your tile backsplash when you get sick of it.
While this technology has yet to be introduced to the market. Consumers are already doing their research on how well the digital backsplash can benefit them. It’d make following a video teaching you how to make something much easier as you can use your entire backsplash as a screen. For small kitchen design ideas this would be perfection for decoration purposes as you have limited space to decorate as well as still being able to utilise your kitchen space.
5. Smart Oven Hood
Oven hoods play a huge part in making our kitchen functional helps with air circulation and help reduce odours. When you question how to design a kitchen. You’d always want to make space for an oven hood as that is crucial to have in your kitchen design ideas. Smart oven hoods will be able to provide you access with your favourite apps. Even comes with a built in camera so you’re able to live stream your cooking skills and techniques.
Once again, this is perfect for a small kitchen design idea as every kitchen needs an oven hood. So why not get a smart oven hood that is multi-functional!
6. High – Tech Lighting
As we slowly move into incorporating smart home technology in our homes. Smart homes NZ have introduced smart light bulbs and plugs as smart solution homes idea. This is due to them being easy to install and allow for total customization. As our technology evolves more, we’ll be able to control our lighting with our voice.
How to design a kitchen? Consider kitchen lighting as you’d want to make sure that every inch of the kitchen has light and not a dark corner. Consider ambient and task lighting in your kitchen design idea. In the next few upcoming years, windows and blinds can also be adjusted automatically to reduce sun glare, allow sunlight or darken a room based on your needs and activity.
Which Features Matter Most?
As consumers, we mainly only go for smart solutions home that can really benefit us. For example smart lights that we can control via voice command or from our smart devices. Which can lead to number of smart gadgets that don’t communicate well. Also resulting in have dozens of different apps to control your house.
To solve this issue and ensure that you won’t have this problem. Consider purchasing a smart home automation hub that can support all the devices you wish to have in your smart home.
Smart Sensors Protect the Home
There are many benefits to investing in smart home technology. Especially as they’re able to let you know how well they’re functioning and what needs repairing when faulty. Usually we wouldn’t notice if something was faulty unless it starts acting up. This can result in costly consequences.
Smart thermostats are able to provide alerts if your house loses power or if the temperature goes below or above your maximum or minimum temperature.
Having smart kitchen appliances can also help detect any water leaks. Alerting owner about any potential leaks. So you’re able to get it repaired before it gets worse.
How Environmentally Friendly are Smart Homes?
Smart homes have been known to be environmentally friendly with smart appliances as they help lower your water and energy usage. A popular smart technology that helps make your smart home environmentally friendly are smart thermostats. You can adjust the temperate from your phone and smart thermostats will automatically turn off if a door was left open. This can help minimize your carbon footprint.
Another way that having a smart home can help minimise your carbon footprint is having smart lighting. With smart lighting you’re able to control from your phone. This can ensure that you’ve turned your lights off when going on vacation. Wasting electricity and forgetting to turn lights off leaves a massive carbon footprint, so investing in smart lighting helps make your home environmentally friendly.
3 Reasons Why Smart Home Features Increase Your Home’s Value
1. Increased Security
Video doorbells are amazing smart home technology that you can incorporate into your house to increase your home safety and your house value. Having a video doorbell is now becoming more popular as people purchase their first homes. This allows you to see who is it at door from your smart device as we’re more cautious when it comes to opening the front door. While it’s unlikely that a burglar would push past you to enter your home, it’s also handy to avoid talking to door to door salesman.
Video doorbells works with wireless technology as they’re easy to install and provides a two way video and audio communication system. That way you can jokingly deny access to your friends and family.
Not only that, but your video doorbell also works as a security camera so you’re able to see when your package has been delivered. And for many other reasons like being able to see if someone was causing a problem or vandalising your property.
2. Fully Automated Home
Best thing about having one integrated systems that connects all your smart home technology in your smart home is that you’re able to control everything and anything at all times! This definitely creates a huge selling point to buyers as it brings more ease and convenience into your busy lives.
This is where your smart assistant like Amazon Alexa would come into play and be extremely helpful. As you can connect them all to your Alexa and control them from one app. This can work with any smart assistant and is not limited to Amazon Alexa.
Smart home assistants are completely voice controlled once set up and can be voice commanded to control your lights, home media, heating, air conditioner and many more. Not only can your smart assistant control your smart home technology. But it can also tell you information on just about everything. As smart assistants have AI technology, they’re able to learn from interactions and provide you with content that you’ll like.
3. A Warm Welcome Home
Currently, the most popular smart home solution is smart lighting system. They can add significant value to your home as it provides many benefits. Did you know that smart lighting can increase the security in your home? This is due to you activating them to turn on even when you aren’t home to give the illusion that someone is home.
After having a long day, you don’t want to come home to complete darkness. Having smart lights that can activate around a certain time is a great way to be welcomed home to lift your spirits. Especially when you can also control your air conditioning from your phone. You’ll walk into a perfectly lit warm household. Perfect for those cold winter days.
Another benefit of smart lights is that you’re able to customise the light setting. Perfect if you’re waking up early or going to bed late. You’re able to dim the lights so that you’re still able to see but also not wake or disturb anyone else.
Having the help of your smart assistant, you can tell them to turn the lights on and off as you leave an empty room which can increase the value of your house.
Having automated heating systems allow you to pre-set the heating so your house temperature is perfect at all time. This ensures that your home is always warm or cool but also stops you from wasting money and energy heating up your house when you’re not there. Forgot if you turned the heater off or not? With an automated heating system, you’re able to double check straight from your phone.
There are many great benefits to investing in smart home technology as they have your home more comfortable and convenient for you and your family. If you’re interested, look for smart home technology that will help increase security. Creating a warm, comfortable environment and potentially your dream home without the extra costs of having a full house renovation.
Top Smart Devices to Use in Your Smart Home.
There are plenty of smart devices that are coming out nowadays, which gives you as a consumer plenty of options. Though having too many options can be overwhelming. The top three smart devices to install for your smart home is the Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Siri aka HomePod.
Based on our research we have found some advantages of using these three smart devices. Advantages for Amazon Alexa is that it’s easy to use and easy to set up and Alexa has more than 10,000 skills. Alexa can answer anything you ask her although her response might not be the answer you want. Another advantage of Alexa is that it’s compatible with any device. A main disadvantage of Alexa is that you can’t trigger her from your phone and Alexa doesn’t always understand you inquires.
Amazon Alexa | Photo Credit – Unsplash
Google Home or Google Assistant is another popular smart device suitable for your smart home. Some advantages of Google Home are that they’ve proven that their AI is more advance than any other smart devices. A disadvantage of Google Home is that you can only summon it by saying ‘Ok Google”, which can become annoying. Another one is that Google Home also won’t understand your commands and inquires all the time.
Google Assistant | Photo Credit – Unsplash
Lastly, another smart device that is the HomePod which is associated with Apple’s Siri and some advantages of this smart device is that it’s easy to set up because it works directly with your home kit app that is already installed into your phone. A big disadvantage is that this is only accessible via apple products. So, if you don’t have an apple product then the HomePod is not available for you to use.
Apple HomePod | Photo Credit – Unsplash
Further Resources
Ideas for Bathroom renovations in our bathroom renovation gallery of bathrooms we have renovated in Auckland
Ideas for Kitchen renovations in our kitchen renovation gallery for kitchens we have renovated in Auckland
*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
Do you have any
questions?
Submit an enquiry and we’ll be in touch within 1 working day or alternatively, call us direct on 0800 199 888
