As a custom Design and Build project, this Showhome was created to do more than turn heads – it was designed to reflect how homeowners are thinking differently about space, lifestyle, and long-term value.

“We wanted to showcase an option for people who want to get clever with how they build,” says Carly. “For some, that might mean having space for extended family or guests. For others, it’s about creating a separate area that could offer potential income to help offset the cost of building. Either way, it’s something worth considering early in the design process.”

With a total floor area of 252.6m² over two levels, the home includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus an ensuite, and two distinct living zones. The upper level features the main kitchen, dining, and living space, a study nook, a powder room, and the master suite. 

A compact kitchenette sits within the living space, with room for an under-bench fridge and future provisions for cooking and water. It’s a simple, flexible addition that opens up a range of future possibilities.

While the design could suit a range of lifestyles, its real strength lies in its versatility, offering homeowners the freedom to use the home in a way that works for them, both now and into the future. 

Beyond the clever layout, it’s the interior design that gives this home its unique character. Created in collaboration with interior designer Rosie Blockley, the styling leans into natural tones, soft curves, and tactile materials that bring a sense of calm and cohesion throughout.

The colour palette is soft and natural, with warm neutrals, peachy tones, and hints of olive green. Timber and stone textures add warmth throughout, creating a look that’s relaxed, welcoming, and easy to live with.

One of the standout features is the study nook, positioned behind the kitchen on the upper level. It’s framed by Profile Panels Crete in Crimson Sands – a softly sculpted wall finish that brings depth, movement, and a unique textured look. The effect is subtle but striking, and it’s become a real talking point during open homes.

“We wanted to give that small area some depth and personality,” says Carly. “It’s been one of the things visitors comment on the most.”Other details throughout the home add character and interest, from softly fluted cabinetry and custom lighting by La Belle Maison, to patterned tiles and wallpapers that bring warmth and texture to each space.

The interior draws you in, with just enough detail to make you want to keep exploring. Around each corner, there’s something to notice – a shape, a texture, a tone. But for all its interest, the home feels calm and effortless. It’s the kind of space you naturally want to slow down in and stay a while.   

The upper level of the home is where daily life unfolds – open-plan, light-filled, and designed to take full advantage of its elevated position. Full-height sliders in the kitchen, dining, and living areas open to a louvre-covered balcony, framing uninterrupted views across Tauranga Harbour.

At the heart of the space is the kitchen – a refined combination of clean lines and subtle complexity. A standout addition is the island surround, which is clad in Island Stone’s Cescent Mini Sandstone Mint, a unique bamboo-look stone that brings visual warmth and a point of difference. 

Overhead, a custom timber pendant echoes the home’s wider natural material palette. A softly rippled Casablanca Tumbled Mosaic tile splashback adds texture and ties in with other finishes used throughout the home.

To one side of the kitchen, a concealed push-to-open door leads through to a generous scullery, offering a full prep and cleaning up area and additional storage. “We designed it to be fully functional, especially for entertaining,” says Carly. “You can keep everything tidy behind the scenes, while the main kitchen stays clear and presentable.”

The living and dining spaces continue the relaxed, well-considered feel. With warm tones, natural light, and soft textures, the layout is easy to settle into. Recessed curtain tracks in the ceiling give the drapery a clean, modern look – a small detail that helps keep the overall space feeling simple and open.

Throughout the home, flooring has been carefully selected for both looks and liveability. Laminate plank flooring in Forte’s Moda Mondello brings a warm timber look to the main living spaces, while the bedrooms and lower-level lounge are finished in Feltex Okiwi Bay carpet in the colour Ecru.

The master suite brings together soft colour, natural materials, and just the right amount of personality. A softly patterned feature wall sets the tone behind the bed, with custom light fittings and furnishings that keep the space feeling calm and well put together. 

The ensuite picks up on the same tones, with a double vanity and a stunning geometric feature tile that subtly ties in with the bedroom wallpaper. A spacious walk-in wardrobe runs the length of the room, finished in timber tones to match the rest of the home. complete the look, creating a space that feels refined without being overdone.

Each of the bathrooms has its own feel, but they’re all tied together by warm tones, textured finishes, and thoughtful details that keep things feeling consistent throughout the home.

Downstairs, the family bathroom features a similar geometric tile. A fluted timber cupboard adds texture and a subtle link between the two levels. Under-tile heating adds an extra layer of comfort.

The powder room upstairs takes a bolder approach, with Evolve Ombre wallpaper by Aspiring Walls, a softly patinaed mirror, and a Murano glass pendant that adds just the right amount of drama. It’s a small space with a big personality, and a favourite talking point during open homes.

Throughout the home, small details have been thoughtfully considered to add both interest and function. The stairwell is a standout feature, with pendant lights installed at both the upper and lower levels – creating a visual connection between floors and adding soft, sculptural light at each end. It’s the kind of detail that catches the eye as soon as you step inside. Timber slat balustrading adds texture and rhythm, balancing contemporary lines with natural materials. 

Outside, the upper-level balcony features a custom weave-pattern aluminium balustrade – a bold, graphic touch that still feels light and refined. Louvred roofing provides all-weather functionality, while the landscaped outdoor areas below create a private, green outlook for the lower level.