SLATER ROAD

One of the true joys of a rural build is having the freedom to create what suits you, not what suits the neighbourhood. For some that might be a modern take on a classic farmstead, where traditional forms meet the latest building standards and interior fittings. Perhaps your tastes are more contemporary; with all that space you can make a bold, architectural statement.

For Nick and Linda, who both worked from home and had two girls who loved riding horses, a lifestyle build was always on their radar. One day, not long after purchasing their lifestyle block, a drive to visit the land brought them past the Maddren office and they pulled in for a chat. They spoke of a crested hill they were going to take the top off with views of the Kaipara Harbour and they spoke of the dream home they wanted to build. The couple had a clear plan of what they wanted — we just needed to extract that plan, put it on paper and build their dream into a reality. At Maddren Homes we’re not precious and our willingness to work with Nick and Linda to develop their design is what made everything click; what they wanted is what they got and we made it work. During the build we worked with KiwiSpan to integrate site services for part of the horse arena and stables development — yes, the family’s love of horses has somewhat grown. As requested, the home is also self-sufficient, with solar, septic and rain water systems all in place. Nick and Linda wanted to use a local company to build up on that Kaipara hill, and Maddren worked hard to source trades from the South Head area, making this lifestyle build a true community project.

ABOUT THE HOME

On entering you are mesmerised by the majesty of 4m high ceilings that spread across the entire kitchen, dining and living zone. Air and light weave their way throughout this impressive space. Living extends outside with multiple al fresco areas to suit a variety of views, occasions and prevailing winds. When you’re done with the views, slip into the kitchen for a closer look and discover a massive walk-in pantry nestled behind the appliance wall.

The master suite has its own space off the living area, providing separation from the other bedrooms and convenience for those midnight refreshments. A cosy corridor with a warm cedar feature wall carries the girls down to the privacy of their rooms at the other end of the home. A further bedroom or media room offers extra space and flexibility. The family bathroom may at first elude you. It’s mysteriously hidden — behind the panels of the cedar wall.

To clearly distinguish between work and home, the office is accessed via a stroll down the path and a wander through the garage structure. Don’t worry, the connecting roof will ensure your short ‘commute’ is weatherproofed. This Kaipara dream home certainly enchants and surprises.