Planning your dream home may seem like a daunting undertaking, but Kiwi couple Phil and Leonie describe it as a really exciting and enjoyable process. Having decided to build their family home on a section they bought above Lake Taupo, they began looking around the area to see what new homes caught their eye.

‘Leonie really liked the classic look of weatherboard. I liked the homes that had a modern and contemporary look. So we asked our designer how we could bring those two styles together." Their designer recommended a combination of Linea Weatherboard and Stria Cladding. The narrow straight lines of Linea Weatherboard and wider horizontal lines of Stria Cladding created contrast and interest, as part of a design that was classic enough for Leonie while still looking contemporary enough for Phil.

Before committing to the design, they discussed the plans with an experienced builder who was also a good friend. He gave their choice of James Hardie cladding his seal of approval. Not only was it easy to work with, but it was also tough and durable, making it ideal for the cold winters and hot summers of the local area. It was also surprisingly affordable when compared to other cladding options.

“And because it’s low maintenance, we’re going to have to paint it less often, which is going to save us more money in the years ahead.' Another advantage of the James Hardie cladding was that it could be pained any colour, including the darker shades that Phil and Leonie preferred. So they were able to put their own personal touch on their home with a paint combination that captured the contrast and reflected their own tastes and style.

Having now been in their dream home for a couple of seasons, Phil and Leonie couldn’t be happier with how it’s looking and performing. “We haven’t had to do anything to it other than give it a quick hose down. Stones from the mower just bounce off without it even marking. It still looks just like new, and we love it.”