NZ Skip navigation Search Create Avatar image From Showroom to Shower: How to Get Your Bathroom Done Right with Jennifer Price
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we’re joined by Jennifer Price, Strategic Brands Manager at Plumbing World — New Zealand’s largest 100% locally owned plumbing merchant. With over 60 years of history and a nationwide network of 58 branches, Plumbing World is proudly built on a cooperative model, owned by the very tradespeople it serves. Jennifer unpacks what makes this model unique and how it shapes the way Plumbing World brings high-quality, regulation-compliant products to both tradies and everyday homeowners. From taps to toilets, showers to vanities, Jennifer shares deep insights into how New Zealanders are using their bathrooms in 2025, and how design, functionality, wellness, and long-term planning are all converging in this crucial part of the home. Throughout the episode, Jennifer offers expert guidance on: Navigating the renovation journey, including where to start, how early to plan, and what timelines are often underestimated. The growing shift toward wellness, low-maintenance materials, and natural colour palettes in bathroom design. Common mistakes homeowners make — and how to avoid regret through better planning and professional advice. The differences between mains and low-pressure plumbing, and how to tell what you have. Choosing tapware, showers, and toilets that suit your specific space, lifestyle, and budget, without compromising quality Jennifer also explains how Plumbing World’s exclusive brands — including LeVivi, Toto, and Metrix — are carefully handpicked and tailored for Kiwi homes, combining global design with local expertise. She shares practical tips for making smart upgrades (like changing tapware or vanities for instant impact), and talks through the growing popularity of high-tech options like bidet toilets and cold-start tap technology. For listeners planning a renovation, Jennifer provides valuable context around: Understanding space and user needs (ensuite vs family bathroom vs powder room). Coordinating product styles across multiple bathrooms while varying investment levels. The pros and cons of vessel vs inset basins. How to size and select a shower or bath that fits your needs (and why you should always try them in person!). Ventilation, maintenance, and how to keep your bathroom looking newer, longer She also encourages homeowners to take full advantage of Plumbing World’s free consultation service — available in every branch and online — and to use resources like the Plumbing World Helps guide, catalogues, and product planners to help build confidence and clarity throughout the renovation process. Whether you’re completely overhauling a bathroom or just updating a few fixtures, Jennifer’s practical, down-to-earth advice is invaluable. Her message is clear: start early, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and come into the showroom, where experienced consultants are ready to help you create a bathroom that works beautifully for your lifestyle, your budget, and your home.
Making a Mark on the World with Your New Home with Jarrod Angove
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Jarrod Angove, General Manager of Landmark Homes North Shore and Rodney to unpack everything you need to know about designing and building a new home in New Zealand. With over 14 years at Landmark and decades of combined experience in construction and client relationships, Jarrod is on a mission to make the home-building process transparent, enjoyable, and tailored to each client’s lifestyle. Jarrod shares the Landmark philosophy of building “alongside” the client; a people-first approach grounded in the company’s core values of integrity and relationships. He explains how Landmark’s unique structure, long-standing franchise network, and experienced in-house teams support clients from concept to handover, removing the stress and uncertainty often associated with building. Whether you’re looking at a ready-to-build plan, a house and land package, or a fully custom architectural design, Jarrod offers clear advice on how each path works, what to expect, and how to get started. He also shares why many clients are now knocking down and rebuilding on their existing site, often in suburbs they already love, instead of moving house. Viewers will learn about: The differences between standard plans, design-build, and house & land packages How Landmark Homes offers fixed-price contracts and detailed specifications upfront Why early engagement with the right team reduces surprises and improves outcomes How Landmark’s in-house designer, project managers, and partnerships create a seamless, highly personalised experience The role of show homes and case studies in helping clients visualise their dream From selecting finishes to navigating council consents, Jarrod breaks the build process into three manageable phases: design & pricing, working drawings & consents, and construction. He highlights how important communication is throughout each phase, and how his team’s proactive project management keeps everything on track, including regular client updates, milestone walkthroughs, and hands-on support. Jarrod also explains the importance of partnerships with trades and suppliers, Landmark’s Master Builders guarantees, and the extensive aftercare program, including a digital homeowner portal and 12-month defect warranty. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear why so many Landmark clients become repeat builders — and even invite Jarrod and his team to their housewarmings. From thoughtful design to final handover, Landmark Homes delivers not just a build, but a trust-based relationship that lasts well beyond the construction timeline. Whether you’re ready to design your dream home or just exploring your options, this episode is packed with real-world advice, heartfelt stories, and practical strategies to turn your vision into a home with confidence, clarity, and care.
Bringing Function, Flow, and Feeling to Your Kitchen with Mark Bruce
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we speak with Mark Bruce, National Operations Manager at Kitchen Studio, a trusted kitchen design brand with over 40 years of experience and a nine-year streak as New Zealand’s Most Trusted Kitchen Brand (Readers’ Digest). Mark brings a unique perspective to the conversation, drawing from his early years as a cabinetmaker, his background in education and design science, and his passion for reshaping how Kiwis think about their kitchens. Mark shares a compelling philosophy: great kitchen design starts with function, not form. Whether you’re planning a renovation or building new, he urges homeowners to think beyond looks and dig into how they actually use their kitchens, from how often you open the fridge to the way you prep, cook, clean, and live day-to-day. Across the episode, Mark offers insightful and practical advice on: Why workflow, ergonomics, and “honest client briefs” should lead the design conversation How sculleries are reshaping the modern home and why he’s now a convert. Common layout mistakes – including symmetrical kitchens and misunderstood U-shapes. Tips for planning ahead: from appliance positioning to rubbish bins and rangehoods. The value of showroom visits and early budget conversations to reduce overwhelm Mark also lifts the curtain on Kitchen Studio’s operations model, which focuses entirely on customer experience, from showroom consultation through to installation. With no in-house manufacturing to bias decisions, their designers can focus on tailoring solutions to each client’s needs, lifestyle, and budget. He explains how Kitchen Studio coordinates the full process, including sub-trades, and backs it with a 10-year transferable warranty and a deposit guarantee. For those overwhelmed by kitchen planning, Mark’s key takeaway is simple: start with how you live, not just what you like. Whether it’s your forever home or an upgrade to sell, a well-designed kitchen should support your habits, elevate your space, and add joy to your daily routine.
Energy, Water & Wellness: More Soak for Less Spend
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Aaron Sampson from Hot Spring to talk about the real choices that make a spa a smart everyday wellness tool, not just a backyard luxury. We look past the brochure specs and into what actually lowers running costs, insulation that works as a system, efficient pumps and heaters, and the humble cover (plus a lift assist) that keeps heat where it belongs. Instead of juggling chemicals, we explore saltwater care that creates chlorine naturally and can keep water sparkling for up to a year. Aaron explains why that means less fuss, fewer additives, and a gentler soak. We also cover practicalities people miss: how a site visit can solve access, orientation, and views; when a plug-in model is enough; and why “closer to the house” often means more winter use. We get into layouts and living: open-plan seating that suits families, when lounges help (and when they don’t), and the growing world of aquatic fitness, from compact models used as plunge pools to full swim systems and even underwater treadmills. Aaron also shares why Hot Spring is adding a new old plunge and soon a sauna, completing a home routine that’s about recovery, calm, and time together away from screens. If you’re spa-curious, we finish with a simple path: research the options, sit in a few shells (dry and wet tests), and lean on the dealer network for delivery, power, and deck checks. Whether you’re carving out a small courtyard nook or planning a full backyard wellness zone, this conversation will help you choose well, use it more, and make every day a little better.
Beyond the Swim: Designing Your Backyard for Family, Friends, and Resale Value
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Damian Francis from Frontier Pools to unpack the full journey from first idea to first swim. With a background in landscaping and concrete, he explains why the best pools begin with a solid design, clear goals, and a site plan that considers access, fencing, and the entire backyard — not just the water. Damian walks through the early steps: engaging a landscape architect, shaping a concept that reflects how you actually want to live, and navigating consent with pool fencing in mind. He demystifies common decisions — pool size, shape, filtration, heating, and finishes — and shares when features like infinity edges or integrated spas make sense. We dig into the build realities many homeowners miss: tight Auckland sites, rock excavation, machinery access, and sequencing the dig so landscaping benefits from the same window of work. Damian outlines typical timelines from construction to handover and explains why planning for a concealed cover early can save money and improve the look while reducing evaporation and running costs. Finally, he breaks down water care options (salt-to-chlorine, mineral systems, automation), the basics of maintenance and valet services, and the simple habits that keep water clear with minimal effort. Throughout, Damian returns to the real payoff — time together. A well-planned pool becomes a daily ritual for kids, teens, and parents alike, turning the backyard into a place to connect, unplug, and make memories for decades.
Outside the Box Thinking - Inside the Budget Building
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Nat Jakich of Box to unpack what really makes a residential project run well. Drawing on decades across site and office, Nat explains why getting the builder involved early with the designer and engineer turns a good concept into a deliverable plan, with clearer pricing, fewer surprises, and a smoother path through consent and construction. Nat breaks down the decisions that matter most: foundations and structure that suit the site, access and excavation planning while heavy machinery is on hand, and simple, durable detailing that keeps homes warm, dry, and easy to maintain. He shares how direct, honest communication with homeowners prevents small issues from becoming costly problems, and why showing a realistic schedule early — then tightening it at pre-line — keeps confidence high. We explore the renovate-versus-rebuild call, including when retaining character makes sense and when starting fresh delivers better performance and value. Nat also lifts the curtain on Box’s team model, from long-term subcontractor relationships to training apprentices, so quality stays consistent from framing to handover. Whether you are planning a careful renovation or a new architectural build, this conversation shows how early collaboration, practical sequencing, and transparent client updates protect budgets, save time, and deliver homes that work beautifully for New Zealand living.
How the Right Furniture Makes a House a Home with Kim van Duiven
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Kim, owner and director of Asko Design, one of Christchurch’s most beloved furniture stores. With a legacy that spans over 30 years and roots deeply tied to her own family story, Kim shares a personal and powerful philosophy: that furniture should not only serve a functional purpose, but also become an enduring reflection of your lifestyle, values, and personality. At the heart of Asko Design is the mantra “Design for Life” — a phrase Kim unpacks as both “design for living” and “design for a lifetime.” This dual meaning captures the essence of Asko’s approach: thoughtfully crafted furniture that’s meant to be lived with, loved, and passed down through generations. Whether it’s the dining table you sat around as a child or the armchair you relax in every night, Kim believes great furniture becomes the setting for life’s most meaningful moments. Throughout the episode, Kim explores how furniture choices go far beyond aesthetics. She discusses: The emotional power of memory-making pieces that carry stories and tradition The importance of quality manufacturing, working with both New Zealand and international suppliers to offer durable and beautiful designs Why modern homes demand multi-functional and modular furniture to make the most of smaller spaces How the Asko showroom is designed to inspire and simulate real living, giving customers the confidence to envision how pieces will feel in their own homes Listeners will also gain expert tips on designing specific spaces: Living rooms: How to balance scale, avoid clutter, and create layered, human-centred spaces Dining areas: Choosing comfortable chairs for long nights of conversation, and selecting the right table size and rug proportions Outdoor living: Making the most of small decks or patios with smart furniture choices, especially for New Zealand’s changing climate and compact urban homes Kim also shares valuable guidance for homeowners planning a renovation or buying a new home. She encourages starting early, taking time to live with initial pieces, and avoiding the pressure to “complete” a room too quickly. Instead, she champions a slow, layered approach that lets your style emerge authentically over time. A passionate advocate for injecting personality and soul into the home, Kim reflects on how furniture is more than decor — it’s a way of expressing who you are, how you live, and what you value. She also touches on the evolving role of staging and design advice, and how Asko partners with home stagers and interior designers across New Zealand to help both sellers and homeowners get the most from their spaces. We also hear about Kim’s journey from growing up in her father’s furniture business to returning as its owner after building a successful leadership career elsewhere. Now fully immersed in Asko’s future, Kim combines her business acumen with a lifelong passion for design, helping customers across the country furnish their homes with intention and joy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone building, renovating, or simply looking to make their house feel more like home. Kim’s message is clear: take your time, trust your instincts, and let your furniture tell your story.