New Homes $350,000 - $450,000

The owners of this family home were familiar with Harwood Homes’ style and reputation – having tried to buy a show home several years ago. Industry knowledge had satisfied this couple that any house built by Harwood would be sound, watertight and finished with strict approach on quality.

This single-level house sits on a rear site in one of Tauranga’s newer estates – the section chosen due to its position overlooking a reserve. As with all homes he designs, Dave Harwood tailored this house to its site – maximising views of the reserve at the back of the home.

With one teenager still at home, the owners wanted a combination of family space and separate lounge room. It was important to have their own retreat too – bathroom luxury essential. The kitchen facilities needed to cater for family lifestyle, while providing an entertainment factor.

The result is a solid blend of innovative styling, customised touches and practical elements to suit all members of the family. It is a contemporary theme – a constant thread of silver merging with the almost metallic blue décor.

Constructed in brick and tile, the home has Smartclad splashes that add a point of difference. At 242.6sqm, the home is spacious and comprises three bedrooms plus study; two bathrooms, separate laundry, a formal lounge and generous family hub with custom-designed kitchen that links to defined dining space and family living.

The outdoor theme looks to nature – earthy 90 Series brick and dark Monier tile roofing, while interior décor is modern and uses Dulux colours of New Zealand. It’s a constant tone – shades of NZ Manorburn throughout, off-set with Oriel Blackwood coloured carpet by Bremworth, charcoal tiling in all service areas and lots of silver finish.

Mastercraft’s kitchen is designed around free-flowing movement, separate preparation in a scullery, casual bar conversation and clever division around the sink unit with a feature surround. The embossed vertical grain of Bestwood Melamine silver haze cabinetry highlights its sleek contemporary ambience and this look is repeated in the main bathroom and laundry. The use of Laminex new graphite, high- pressure laminate in the custom-made laundry hints of an industrial image. It’s very practical – capitalising every ounce of space.

The mood changes in the parent bathroom – a large ensuite with ample room housing a walk-in shower and luxury bath. The other highlight is the contemporary custom-designed vanity with strong square basin. This finish adds another dimension to the house – its tribal theme a definite point of interest.

Family living is relaxed - its appeal focused on the striking kitchen.  Design innovation continues in the formal lounge - the inset cavity above the gas fire housing the plasma screen lacquered in a superfine metallic.

It’s early days yet in this estate.  Having selected this particular site however, it’s easy to see that this home will have a sense of country as other housing develops. Outdoor links with the reserve were essential and this home spills family outside to keep close contact with nature.