We are US citizens who have permanently relocated to New Zealand. We love this country and intend to grow old here. Our only complaint is the state of housing here - it is extremely expensive, the quality is poor, energy efficiency and warmth are rare and the designs on offer do not fit with our slightly traditional American sensibilities. There is also the added problem that I am a little bit allergic to most things that are found in modern home construction - so I really need a "healthy home". I am a fan of the "not too big" approach to design. We are not after a "McMansion", in fact we would like the smallest possible home, while still giving myself, my husband and our growing son the spaces we need. What I do want is a bit of character, natural light and architectural variety, but it must also be efficient, comfortable, healthy and most of all affordable. A building plot here will cost us about what a middle class family in the US would spend on a fully finished house, so it doesn't leave much for conventional building. So what I am trying to find out is, are there any companies (either in NZ or, if not, some place that would ship to NZ) that can offer us a turn-key home that meets our needs and can be finished for around $150k NZD + land? Thanks.

Love your style and you've got some beautiful furniture there! A deep aubergine purple velvet on your wingbacks would look stunning. I'd tend to stick to purples in this area to keep it classy. Also, a dark purple would be more practical with kids than a cream. I'd keep the chairs you've got, unless they are really wobbly. Get someone to check them out and give you a quote for repairs and then you'll have a price to work against to see if you can get cheaper. OnePlan is right on the style and yet I don't think they look out of place in the room. I also like the idea of bench seats or if you wanted something really different, you could get a church pew?! I don't think the room has too much dark furniture as it is a large light area. Keep us posted with pics/samples of possible fabrics you find. Also, check out fabric outlet places.

Thanks for the tips about drying linen! I've often gotten this wrong.

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