This calm and comfortable house, built by Jennian Homes Canterbury, sits serenely on its site amidst surrounding well-established trees.

WORDS Kathy Catton PHOTOGRAPHY Mick Stephenson / Veronica Wedlake

In 1999, Rose and her late husband Paul purchased a sprawling 10-acre property in Templeton, just outside Ōtautahi Christchurch, envisioning a homestead complete with olive trees, sheep and hens. “We had always had land,” Rose reflects. “When we returned from Auckland, we were excited to start afresh.”

Tragically, Paul passed away in 2006, and Rose decided to lease the land to their neighbour Graham, known for his work with horses. “Graham took on the land and, in a way, me,” Rose laughs. This unexpected partnership blossomed into a new chapter for Rose.

In 2023, Rose and Graham decided to build a new home together. “The old house was a 1960s model – cold, with just one bathroom and steep steps,” says Rose. “We wanted something warmer and brighter, designed around our needs.”

Their choice to work with Jennian Homes Canterbury stemmed from a serendipitous personal recommendation. “Graham got chatting to the guy who delivered our horse feed. He said his son was the owner of Jennian Homes Canterbury. He said they were really good,” Rose says. This connection led to a productive collaboration.

Rose’s vision for the new home was centred on maximising the light and creating functional spaces. “We wanted lots of sunshine, a separate pantry area, a double garage and a mudroom for Graham,” she says. “We also wanted to ensure comfortable living for both of us and our guests.”

General manager - and the son in question - Dwayne Prendergast describes the project as a true reflection of the couple: “The clients wanted to remove their old existing home and build a new one to best suit their visiting families and themselves. We designed the home to fit the established garden and tree lines. This integration into the landscape was key to achieving the desired aesthetic and functionality.”

The build process was smooth, thanks to the team’s flexibility and responsiveness. Rose appreciated the ability to visit the site frequently and communicate directly with Dwayne and the team. “Graham used to ring Paul, the project manager, at seven in the morning, and he always picked up the phone. It was great,” Rose says.

Rose and Graham worked with Trends Kitchens to make their kitchen design, manufacture and install a reality. For them, it was about having a separate pantry next to the kitchen, matching their active lifestyle.

The team used a concrete raft floor and timber frames, incorporating products that were featured
in Jennian Homes’ standard specifications but also selected by Rose and Graham for their own preferences.

The finished 268sqm home has a thoughtful design and has been meticulously built. Dwayne describes it as “a stunning home that fulfils all the clients’ requirements and dreams”. Rose and Graham’s personalities are evident in every detail, from the internal finishes to the harmonious integration with the land.

The home features large windows and doors to the east, allowing for plenty of morning sunlight. The design includes a visitor wing separate from the main living areas, making it ideal for Rose’s son and his family when they visit from Perth. “It’s a great setup for when it’s just the two of us or when we have guests,” Rose says. This visitor wing includes a large bedroom, kitchenette and access to the main bathroom, giving guests an inviting and private sanctuary.

Cassy Appleton, marketing manager at Jennian Homes Canterbury, considers this project among one of Jennian’s best. “The finished home has to be one of my favourites during my time with the company,” she says. “It’s beautifully integrated into the established land, which adds character and charm. Rose has very refined taste, which is evident throughout the entire home with her choice of stunning internal finishings.”

As Dwayne says, “It’s special to listen to a client’s dream and then see that dream become a reality. Being part of that transformation is truly rewarding.”

The icing on the cake for Jennian Homes is receiving the Regional Gold award in the Registered Master Builders 2024 House of the Year awards.

Rose and Graham’s story is a reflection of how life’s twists and turns can lead to beautiful new beginnings. Their home, a blend of thoughtful design and personal touches, is a tribute to their resilience and creativity. As Rose puts it, “From planting olives to building this beautiful house, it’s all been worth it.”