Homestyle Magazine April / May 2025

We often think about sharing baches and getaway spots with you over the holiday
period, but is there really any better time to start dreaming of your next break than
now? As we settle into the year, I'm already planning for the school holidays, Easter,
and any long weekends ahead. Most days, we could all do with an everyday escape
at home, too.

I'm intrigued by what draws people to particular places - beyond work, school and
family, our connection to a location reveals much about who we are.

Take our cover homeowners, Alex and Corban Walls. Many of you will have
followed their home build in Tamaki Makaurau and, this issue, we're sharing an
update of their bach in Whananaki. When they repurposed a container building
here 15 years ago, the brief was for beach parties and summer socialising with
friends. Now they've transformed the space into a chic coastal haven perfect for
family life. Their renovated bach is where Alex says she feels most at home, and
you can explore the transformation on page 44.

Sophie Bowers and Josh Climpson's story takes us to Wanaka. Escaping a rainy
holiday in Te Anau led them to unexpectedly discover their dream section by the
lake. What started as an impromptu trip soon turned into the beginning of a new
chapter, and now their lakeside bolthole awaits their next adventure. You can check
out the space they'll be leaving Sydney for on page 58.

Next, we delve into two permanent residences that embody the essence of everyday
retreats. First, Anna and Mike's 1912 bungalow in Devonport, where heritage meets
modern functionality to create a family home that suits beachside living all year
round. Find out how they extended their place on page 72.

After returning home from Canada, Jemma and Ben Souness built their dream
home in Taranaki, set within a former orchard. The serene design and natural
materials connect seamlessly with the landscape, offering the perfect antidote to
the busy schedules of this family of six. Explore their stunning home on page 86.
We hope these stories inspire you to carve out your own sanctuary - a space that
feels like a refuge, no matter where it is or how long you stay.

Featuring:
- Everyday retreats
- The Mood: Gentle colour and tactile moments 
- Mindful Curation 

Edited, designed and published in Aotearoa