Style and space

Landmark Homes doubles the potential with a modern duplex design.

WORDS Nicky Adams | PHOTOS Amanda Aitken

If you mention the horse paddock on Ngatai Road, in Otūmoetai Tauranga, most locals will know exactly where you’re talking about. Not many will have driven past at some stage without gazing across the lush field at the stunning view over to the Mount and harbour, and wondered how exactly you go about getting a little piece of this paradise. Just along from here, sharing this jaw-dropping view, is the brand-new Landmark Homes showhome.

With the water glistening as a backdrop, the clean, modern architectural style of the duplex property is eye-catching. At first glance it looks like a single dwelling, however on closer inspection it becomes clear it’s two homes. With an increase in demand for lower maintenance, easy-care living, New Zealand is quickly embracing the benefits a smaller section and a two-level design can offer. Carly Stewart, Landmark Homes Bay of Plenty franchise holder, explains the backstory behind the latest showhome.

“The location was prime real estate with an existing house on it, so essentially the project was a Remove and Rebuild. We loved the idea of a duplex, which, with a fully separate lower floor translates well to lots of different lifestyles. It can be used for anything from guest accommodation to housing extended family, to an Airbnb, which makes it well suited for someone looking for additional income. This obviously in turn increases the value of the property.”

In terms of the site itself, Carly points out: “With sourcing land getting trickier in key areas, we’re seeing more people looking at Remove and Rebuild as an option.”

From the outside the home is undoubtedly sleek; its look is one Carly describes as “contemporary but with the true Landmark Homes bones.” The cladding is pivotal to the appeal, combining an exciting mix of Hinuera stone, timber and brick. Adding a layer of individuality is the way the materials have been used – the feature timber is a Millboard from Forté, a brand known for its high-quality surfaces. In this case used as exterior cladding, it brings not just a unique, authentic timber grain, but – those magic words any homeowner loves to hear – the benefit of low maintenance. Equally aesthetically adventurous is the Premier brick; in this instance the blocks have been deliberately laid back-to-front to achieve a specific texture and colourway. This look has proved popular, and the suppliers now manufacture a Vintage range brick that replicates this exact texture. The overlaid vertical black screening slatting gives a sharp visual, as well as adding a layer of privacy to the interior.

Entering the home the immediate feel is light, bright and coastal. High ceilings and doors are a signature Landmark Homes feature, however there are elements that elevate this showhome to another level altogether. With a ground floor that could just as easily be used as part of the house or entirely separate from the main property, there is a fully equipped laundry, bathroom, lounge and two bedrooms. A kitchenette has been factored in, and access to this floor can be gained independently from the primary dwelling. A beautifully landscaped garden has been perfectly manicured by respected local designer Michelle McDonnell; the result is a juxtaposition of lush vibrant coloured foliage against the warm natural textures of this contemporary build.

All two-storey Landmark Homes either feature a lift or allow a shaft for retrofitting. This is no ordinary lift, step inside and the eyes are drawn to the beautiful walls, papered in a textured wallpaper that holds a subtle hint of metallic, adding that immediate element of luxe. The upper floor of the home combines a practical streamlined layout, with clever interior design features. From the floating wooden entertainment shelf to the unique concrete tiles used to create a distinctive kitchen island, the purposeful and decorative aspects unfold room by room. Attention to detail is obvious, from the tiles to the feature lighting; comfort is key, your feet sink into the softest Okiwi Bay cut pile twist carpet, while eyes are simultaneously drawn to the floor to ceiling windows, clad in beautiful quality white linen curtains. The neutral tones of the decor are the perfect foil to the dramatic view from the large deck, which, with its electric Louvretec roof will allow for maximum al fresco indoor/outdoor living and year-round use.

The design and layout without doubt work perfectly for clients of a spread of ages and stages. Two bedrooms downstairs along with large master and ensuite on the first floor allow for multiple living combinations from couples to families. Landmark Homes prides itself on attention to the little things as well as the construction. “Everything is well thought out for longevity. We factor in the client’s wants and needs when it comes to everything from sustainability to environmentally friendly aspects. There is extra time, care, money and details that all combine to make the end product feel more solid. You can see and feel the quality.”

Carly is clearly excited about the direction that the build has taken into the realm of premium duplex. She has seen, she mentions, more and more instances of people looking for innovative solutions to land or financial squeeze. This type of building, she believes, presents a very attractive option; with the solid build and premium acoustic properties ensuring optimum soundproofing, it really does become ‘two homes, one vision of luxury’.

A key service Landmark Homes provides is a no obligation meeting, either at the new showhome, the Tauriko office, the satellite office at Waihi Beach, or on site (even pre-land purchase), where it’s possible for Landmark to give an idea of feasibility. The tight team of trusted staff that her and husband Logan operate within is one that works together to ensure every aspect of the plan and build process is an exciting journey. In addition to the team itself there are the regular contractors who share the exacting standards that Carly and Logan set. The high finish is something that Landmark Homes Bay of Plenty absolutely stands by; in fact, Carly mentions, only half-jokingly, as she runs her fingers over the tile finish to check the grouting: “I’m borderline OCD!” A characteristic that might be considered a real asset when you’re trusted with the quality control of your client’s dream home.

LANDMARKHOMES.CO.NZ

Good as gold

Quality workmanship meets impeccable design for these
Registered Master Builders House of the Year Bay of Plenty
and Central Plateau Award winners. 

Beachfront bliss

A stunning renovation has transformed this cute bach into a cosy oceanfront haven.

Built by Reside Construction, this beachfront family bach not only won the overall Supreme Renovation Award, but also the Builders Academy Renovation Award $1-$2 million Category, and Gold. With breathtaking views of Waihi Beach, this impeccable build has been renovated to last.

The original dwelling has undergone complete modernisation, with the addition of a pool, and low-maintenance materials designed to withstand coastal conditions.

The addition of robust aluminium cladding and roofing ensures longevity and the Flashclad Dualboard Vertical Cladding System is a nod to the building’s original board and batten exterior. The addition of spacious decks and louvre roofs were added to allow year-round entertaining.

Revamped spaces include a master suite on the oceanfront elevation, with its own lounge, opening up to the stunning views by an over-wall sliding door, to share as an additional space enjoyed as part of the bedroom.

In additional living spaces, the kitchen/diner and another bedroom flow seamlessly along the oceanfront. And the bunkroom and bathroom off the pool area is the perfect escape for the younger generations.

This is a compact and easy-living bach that has cleverly incorporated everything needed for multiple holidaying families, including many modern home comforts – central heating and air conditioning and a Smart home security system which can be monitored remotely.

Reside Construction also won the Builders Own Home Category and Gold for another entry. Both properties have been selected for the Top 100 House of the Year 2024 National Awards.

reside.nz

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Mount marvel

This Valley Road residence not only fits seamlessly into the landscape, but elevates the standard for modern living.

What once stood as a 110m2 relic from the 1950s has now been reborn as
a contemporary marvel on Valley Road. This Gold Award winner not only meets the client’s dream of an open, sun-soaked haven but also stands as a testament to innovative design, overcoming challenges, and the collaborative effort between the clients and the architectural team. 

The homeowners actively engaged in the design process, immersing themselves in the old property’s daily rhythms, optimising the new house’s positioning relative to the sun’s movement. 

The challenge of building on the sand dunes meant there was a large hump in the site and means the house follows this contour, creating a unique layering that integrates with the land. From the garage up to the living area and down to the pool, each level is meticulously planned. 

The commitment to eco-friendly practices extended to the demolition of the 1950s home, with an effort to recycle materials. Reclaimed Sanselmo Clay bricks were chosen for their energy efficiency, sound insulation and organic composition that emits no VOCs. These bricks also facilitate moisture escape, promoting a healthier indoor environment.

The electrical selections reflect a modern approach to energy efficiency, with LED strip lighting triggered by sensors, a zone-controlled heat pump, and infrared heaters in the outdoors. Outdoor lighting is designed for efficiency, triggered by photocells to minimise unnecessary energy consumption. The result is an eco-friendly, functional modern paradise. 

landmarkhomes.co.nz

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Black beauty

The proof is in the pudding for this functional and spacious Ōpōtiki home. PHOTOS Michael White

Diane and Tony’s stunning home in Ōpōtiki, built by Landmark Homes Eastern Bay of Plenty and Rotorua, boasts incredible craftsmanship, breathtaking views, and personal touches, like cathedral-style windows and a bold red front door.

As the only House of the Year awardee in 2024 for the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Landmark Homes EBOP and Rotorua couldn’t wait to get started on this spacious home which overlooks the rolling hills and the water beyond. 

Their clients, Diane and Tony, say their favourite spot is the kitchen. With cathedral-style windows, a high gabled ceiling, and wide opening sliders leading out to the large, covered deck. “It’s a beautiful space,” she says. “I love how functional it is, and the views are breathtaking.” A standout feature is the letterbox window, offering a picture-perfect view and serving as a unique splashback. 

Diane and Tony are thrilled with their new home, describing it as everything they dreamed of and more. They’ve created a functional space that they love, and their satisfaction speaks volumes about the quality and craftsmanship of the home. The Regional Gold award was the cherry on top, a wonderful recognition of all the hard work and dedication that went into their home. 

landmarkhomes.co.nz