RENOVATION WARNING: SUMMER PROJECTS CAN MEAN WINTER LEAKS
Summer is typically the busiest time of year for home renovations. Dry weather, longer daylight hours, and holiday breaks make it easier to plan and complete upgrades. From new bathrooms and kitchens to decks, roofing, and joinery replacements, summer feels like the ideal window to improve a home. But while summer is when work gets […]
2025 Colour Palettes that Calm and Inspire
Colour has a profound effect on how we feel in our homes. The right palette can soothe, energise, or inspire, shaping not only a room’s look but its atmosphere. As 2025 unfolds, designers are leaning into colours that bring calm, connection to nature, and subtle sophistication – perfect for homeowners seeking a sanctuary from the […]
Expert Insights with Rarebirds Interiors: Why Interior Design is About More Than Just Style
Welcome to our Home Show Expert Series, where we chat with industry leaders to uncover trusted, stylish, and practical advice for anyone building, renovating, or refreshing their home. This week, we sat down with Kelly Gammie of Rarebirds Interiors—a creative powerhouse whose passion for design shines through every project. With over twenty five years of […]
Save Money – and Your Marriage
When it comes to home renovations, it’s not just your budget at risk – it could be your relationship too. That’s why engaging an interior designer from the outset isn’t just smart, it’s essential. “Designers should really take a few psychology papers,” laughs Kelly Gammie of Rarebirds Interiors. “We’re not just helping clients choose fittings […]
Design Now, Install Later — Plan Your Dream Kitchen This Winter
Want your new kitchen ready by Christmas? July is the perfect time to get started. We talk to Kitchen Studio’s Paul Collins about why now is ideal for planning layouts, gathering quotes, and finalising your appliance wish list — before the timelines tighten… If you’re dreaming of a brand-new kitchen by summer, winter is […]
Bathrooms: Add warmth and a spa-like feel
For the ultimate home-spa experience this winter, it’s all about radiant heat. Discover how underfloor heating, demisting mirrors, and heated towel rails are transforming Kiwi bathrooms. Find out more here… There’s nothing quite like stepping into a warm, mist-free bathroom on a winter morning—and it’s easier than ever to create that mini-spa experience at home. […]
Matariki Long Weekend: Embracing Togetherness with Meals, Activities, and Renovation Projects
Matariki, the Māori New Year, is a time to connect with loved ones, reflect on the past, and enjoy quality time together. During the Matariki long weekend, there are plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories with friends and family. In this blog, we explore the joy of spending time together during Matariki by sharing […]
2023 Interior Design Trends New Zealand
As we enter a new year, it’s exciting to see what 2023 interior design trends will be popular; this year and into the future. For New Zealand, we can expect to see a mix of natural materials, earthy colours, and an emphasis on sustainability. Here are a few specific trends to keep an eye on […]
Downsizing Your Home? Evaluate What’s Right For You.
The reasons to Downsize Your Home are endless; maybe the kids have all grown up. Maybe you want to live near the beach, maybe you’d rather travel than pay off a large mortgage. No matter your reason for thinking about downsizing your home to an apartment, tiny home, or moving into a retirement village (if […]
Mothers Day Gifts For Mums Who Love Home Improvements
Mother’s Day is quickly approaching, and many families around the country will be scrambling for Mothers Day gifts and ways to celebrate Mum. Some will go for a much loved traditional ‘breakfast in bed’. Others will choose the classic chocolate and flower combo. Or with winter approaching new slippers and cozy robes will be welcomed […]