Trends New Zealand Volume 34 No 4 | Page 86

Winning features This spacious home offers a pleasing balance of looks and lifestyle – the judges at the Master Builders House of the Year 2018 awards were impressed too, awarding it House of the Year Silver in category Top and above: Long, light-filled and cleverly laid out, this classic-meets- modern home by Fowler Homes Manawatu won Silver at the Master Builders House of the Year Awards for a new home valued between $550,000 and $700,000. The house enjoys open connections with its setting through large windows and doors, and has an extended roofline that covers an outdoor room. This alfresco space is just two steps from the indoor living zone and kitchen. search | save | share at Perhaps the strongest indicator of the merit of a national design and building company is the favourable judgement of its work by its peers – and a major award from the Master Builders Association is essentially just that. This Silver Award House of the Year in category by experts Fowler Homes is an excellent case in point. Designed to maximise its rural outlook, this home is located in the rolling hills of Hiwinui, Palmerston North, says Shane Walker, director of Fowler Homes Manawatu. ”Lifestyle, easy functionality and aesthetics go hand in hand in the design – delivering a superb environment for a growing family,” he says. “The home has a welcoming feel right from entry, with feature wallpaper and designer tiles greeting you just inside the front door.” Plush, high-quality carpet runs through the expansive open-plan living area while its high- quality floor-to-ceiling bifold doors and many windows take in the stunning pastoral views. The large living area also has subtle divisions which add to its functionality. In addition, both the separate formal lounge and the study can be opened or closed off from the main living zone. “The sleek designer kitchen is served by a