This bright, modern home in Aotea, Porirua, will appeal to all walks of life. Great open-plan living is complemented by a separate media lounge and indoor-outdoor flow for entertaining.

Four bedrooms include a carpeted office at the entrance. Further inside, the informal sitting area is blessed with natural light from above. A heatpump delivers warmth in winter. The kitchen, with its copper pendant lights, is the heart of the home. A scullery provides great storage and extra workspace. The U-shaped bench incorporates a breakfast island for morning coffee or feeding hungry youngsters. Glass sliders open to outdoor living. Laminate floors provide practicality in the kitchen and dining space. Carpet adds luxury in the informal lounge and media room with gas fire and schist wall. The home’s understated neutral colour scheme ties in beautifully with the stone feature and allows metallic accents to shine. Hexagonal tiles add interest in the kitchen’s splashback and master ensuite’s walk-in shower. Underfloor heating keeps everyone on their toes.