Instant appeal. This house in the north of Christchurch has it in spades. A smart pavilionstyle exterior with crisp white plaster, dark aluminium cladding and metal roofing gets the 190sqm property off to a cracking start. Grand double-width front doors only add to the appeal. All this is matched by a thoughtfully planned interior, expertly executed details such as cathedral ceilings, plus a few surprises: think clerestory windows, feature wallpaper in the entrance and powder room, sliding barn-style doors and a kitchen featuring moody blue-green cabinetry and a fluted island. Three good-sized bedrooms include a main suite with ensuite and dressing room with built-in wardrobe.

With windows either side, the open-plan kitchen, dining and living space is light, airy and takes up an entire wing of the H-shaped layout. This floorplan also lends itself to plenty of outdoor living, including patios and decking. A link, encompassing the entry and a bedroom, joins the living spaces with the sleeping quarters. In the second wing, you’ll find the main suite, another bedroom, a lovely family bathroom with standalone bath and feature tiling, separate laundry, linen cupboard and double garage. This light, bright house with just the right number of wow-factor features is just as suited to entertaining as everyday family life.