From the ground up

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe
Photos Susan Waterhouse

Nic and Sarina Foster have created an award winner with their stunning forever home in Mangawhai after eight years living in the region. As the owners of NF Construction, they've honed their craftsmanship and design skills over the years, completing six builds for themselves and numerous others for clients. And now they’re enjoying life as a family of four in their functional family home that is a study in restrained elegance.

Their contemporary barn-style abode spans an impressive 400sqm, stretching out long on a semi rural site. Nestled between the bush line and Mangawhai Heads, the exterior of the home is clad in dark weatherboards, which contrast perfectly with the accents of cedar and hardwood decking that surrounds the house. And with skylights punctuating both sides of the steel roof, the interior is flooded with natural light. The Fosters have made the most of the flat outdoor space for family time and a purpose-built office space for Nic, meaning this home truly meets all their needs.

Inside, the ground floor opens to a living area boasting soaring ceilings that trace the 45-degree-angle roofline. The space flows naturally from the kitchen to the dining and lounge areas, and then out to the covered deck. A long, low fireplace cleverly placed beneath a feature cedar wall that is home to the family TV creates an inviting and warm area for all to enjoy. Barn doors cleverly disguise a rumpus/playroom space – a must-have on Sarina's wishlist to keep toys out of the main living area. A functional mudroom, a guest bedroom, plus a bunk room separate from all other bedrooms, means the second level is the family’s own.

Upstairs, a statement oak staircase crafted by Andrew Lawrie leads to the family bedrooms. Andrew is the craftsman responsible for the home's interior and exterior cedar work as well as custom cabinetry and the much-loved bunks that also feature in the couple's son’s bedroom. The master bedroom suite, complete with its own balcony, occupies most of the upstairs level and, understandably, has become the couple’s sanctuary and favourite spot to unwind and relax.

Throughout the home, Sarina has incorporated elements from small New Zealand businesses, giving the interiors a unique touch. From feature resin handles and coat hooks – made to order from The Arc Department – to Made of Tomorrow mirrors which provide the perfect finishing touch in the ensuite and powder room, every detail has been thoughtfully considered.

A carefully curated tile selection in each bathroom made these rooms Sarina’s favourite to design. And while each bathroom has its own unique style they remain tied in with the rest of the house which showcases a colour palette reflective of the natural surroundings and coastal location.

Wood elements contrast perfectly with black joinery that sits alongside uniquely-coloured concrete flooring displaying hints of earthy browns amongst the grey. The subtle use of green in furnishings, feature walls and the playroom barn doors, softens the interior of the home which truly is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design.

NZ House of the Year Awards 2022: Regional Category

Winner: Auckland/Northland/Coromandel Builder’s Own Home

www.NFConstruction.co.nz
nic@NFConstruction.co.nz
www.HouseOfTheYear.co.nz