New Zealanders love spending time outdoors, and a well-designed outdoor living space is a must-have for any home. Here’s how to create an outdoor area that suits your lifestyle and complements your home. 1. Seamless indoor-outdoor flow Design your outdoor space to flow naturally from the interior. Sliding or bi-fold doors can create a seamless connection, while covered patios extend …
Technology has become an integral part of modern house design, enhancing convenience, efficiency, and security. Here are some ways technology is transforming homes in New Zealand. 1. Smart home systems From lighting and climate control to security and entertainment, smart home systems allow you to manage your home with the touch of a button or voice commands. These systems are …
Building a home in New Zealand involves a number of legal and regulatory steps, with building consent being one of the most important. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this process and ensure your project runs smoothly. What is building consent? Building consent is the formal approval from your local council to carry out building work. It ensures your …
When it comes to designing your home, it’s often the small details that make the biggest difference. Thoughtfully chosen architectural elements can elevate your space from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are five architectural details to consider for your next build or renovation. 1. Statement ceilings A statement ceiling can add a touch of luxury to any room. Whether it’s exposed …
Designing or choosing the perfect house plan is one of the most important decisions you will make when building your dream home. Your home is more than just walls and a roof; it’s a space where memories are made, and every corner should reflect your unique lifestyle and needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this critical decision. …
Architectural design goes beyond the aesthetics of a home. It is a process that marries functionality with beauty to create spaces that resonate with your personality and lifestyle. Here are some reasons why investing in quality architectural design is essential for creating your dream home. 1. Maximising space efficiency A well-designed home makes the best use of every square meter. …
Sustainability is no longer a trend but a necessity in modern home design. Building a sustainable home means creating a space that meets today’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same. Here are key principles and practices to consider. 1. Energy efficiency An energy-efficient home reduces your carbon footprint and saves money in the long …
Designing a new home is an exciting process, but it’s also easy to make mistakes that could lead to regret down the line. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them. 1. Ignoring future needs One of the biggest mistakes is designing solely for your current needs without thinking ahead. Consider how your …
Building and designing a house from scratch is more complicated than many people seem to realise. You can soon find yourself lost in a pile of design decisions, building codes, contractors, resource consents and much more. Every building project is unique so there is no one-way, clear cut path to follow. Many think that they’re saving money by not hiring …
Designing your own house is an exciting journey, but here at Design @ Our House, we know that it can also be a daunting process full of the unexpected. Our highly-skilled team of architectural designers and technicians are here to help you design smart and build better, and to guide you through the whole process. This includes submitting your plans …