Case Study: A Rural Forever Home

On a farm near Matamata in rural Waikato, a section with stunning views of Wairere Falls, the Kaimai Ranges and Mount Te Aroha was the perfect spot for one couple to build their forever home. Designed for easy living, with one space flowing smoothly into the next, every detail was carefully considered at the outset, and every decision was made with care and precision.

The practical aspects of the design offer shelter from the elements and integrate high-quality, durable products that require minimal maintenance, giving the couple more time to focus on time with family.

The Builder

To get the project started, the couple engaged Luke and Nikki from Linecrest Homes to build their dream home, which was a pleasure for the experienced construction team.

“They wanted a beautiful home that stood the test of time, and one where their children and grandchildren would be welcome in the years to come,” shares Nikki.

The Journey: Design Challenges & Cladding Choices

When it came to the exterior, the architectural draftsman landed on a mid-century-inspired design, using a mix of Forté’s Millboard Envello Antique Oak cladding in a Shadow Line+ profile, which the owners fell in love with when they saw it on a large scale in the Forté Experience Centre. The designer combined this with Millboard Envello Enhanced Grain Antique Oak, which contrasts the light tones of the Stolit plaster, wrapping the dramatic cladding from the interior entryway out to the hidden garage door at the front of the home.

“The low maintenance aspect of Millboard Envello was really appealing to the clients—they didn't want the hassle and expense of having to stain cladding or decking over its lifetime,” shares Nikki. “They also liked that it would be less susceptible to warping with time, especially being a darker colour in New Zealand's harsh climate.”

The only challenge throughout the cladding and decking installation was that the clients weren’t keen on the standard corners that come with the cladding product, so the builders altered them for a sleeker look. Despite this adaptation, Nikki says it didn’t affect the timeline.

“The entire build took just under a year, and the cladding installation was quick and easy.”

When it came time for the landscaping, the clients wanted to create continuity with the same dark timber look for the decking, choosing Millboard Antique Oak & Enhanced Grain Antique Oak.

The Outcome

One of the reasons the clients chose Forte’s Millboard Envello was the value it represents over the lifetime of the project. While alternative cladding and decking options were initially explored, ultimately the ongoing maintenance in the form of regular staining or oiling deterred them from other options.

Given that the clients are planning to live in this home for the foreseeable future, they were happy to invest in a product that would have long-term cost benefits. However, the architectural designer hadn’t worked with the Millboard Envello cladding before, so Forte worked closely with them on the detailing and specification in order to gain council consent.

Nikki says the owners couldn’t be more thrilled with the final result, and the time it gives them back to focus on what really matters.

“Jacque and Shane are in love with their new home, and enjoy hosting family and friends in their beautiful space.”

Location: Matamata
Build timeline: 1 year
Cladding products: Millboard Envello Cladding in Antique Oak Shadow Line+ & Millboard Enhanced Grain Decking in Antique Oak
Builder: Linecrest Homes

You can order free cladding samples today or browse the cladding range on our website to find your favourite tone and finish.