How one couple transformed a bare block into a fernery in all its finery
When Kathy Lanagan and Neil Scarlett bought a bare block of land in North Canterbury back in 1993, they weren’t sure what they would do about a home.
But Lanagan, an enthusiastic gardener from an early age, started planting a garden anyway.
So when they bought the old stationmaster’s house in nearby Kaiapoi several years later and relocated it to the block – the garden had already begun.
“It’s definitely a house in a garden,” says Lanagan. “We’re not really indoor people so you mostly find us outside.”
It’s easy to see why. A 3-metre wide wooden verandah spans the length of the house, its wooden ceiling made from the repurposed sarking from the original roof. It’s punctuated with skylights to allow natural daylight and there are lights for the nighttime. There’s a serving hatch and wooden bar by the kitchen window and a green couch and chairs surround a coffee table against the backdrop of pale green weatherboards.
It’s Riddle Time – You Might Need an Extra Cup of Coffee!
Nobody has ever walked this way. Which way is it?
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The tiger who came to tea
Trays are such a useful item to have in the home – they are obviously great for serving food and drinks, particularly breakfast in bed! Find out how to create your own with Resene wallpaper and Resene Colorwood wood stain with these easy step by step instructions.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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