If the pandemic has had an upside, the expansion and improvement of technologies in support of distance working has to be one of the bigger ones. Even three years ago, who would have thought you could get your house built via Zoom? Wellington-based, but building in Papamoa proved little impediment to getting this young family’s four-bedroom home off the ground. Zoom meetings, complemented by phone calls and emails, kept them informed, up-to-date and engaged throughout the design and build phases. The family was consulted extensively, working through myriad options, from cladding and joinery to cabinetry and lighting. The palette is refined and restrained in matte black, crisp white and natural wood tones inside and out. The kitchen is sleek and striking with a black stone benchtop atop black cabinetry. Stacked square white tiles form the splashback. A double oven and scullery give the hub functionality as well as style. A mixed-use office and yoga room anticipates working from home. The pool and jungle gym are great for the kids. And, as the owners requested, indoor spaces flow seamlessly to outdoor areas.