| 65 T T Karen Phelps Stunning homes for rural environments Positioned to capture sweeping rural views, the home pairs classic black gable forms with modern glazing and open-plan living. David Reid Homes “The last few years have made people reassess what they want. Whether it’s more space, connection to land or simply a better-designed home, people are ready to invest in where and how they live.” DEVELOPMENT David Reid Homes now has two focused franchises in Canterbury so it can better serve the growing region. David Reid Homes Christchurch North, Waimakariri and Hurunui (run by Carl Fordyce) and David Reid Homes Christchurch South, Selwyn and Ashburton (run by Aaron and Ben Hooper). “This change allows each team to concentrate on their specific regions, local conditions, and communities,” says Carl. “The region has seen a steady increase in demand, driven largely by renewed interest in rural living across the region, alongside an influx of people moving to Christchurch from other parts of the country,” adds Aaron. “It definitely appears that the market has turned,” says Aaron. “We’re busier now than we’ve been in years, and these are people who seem genuinely ready to move ahead with their projects.” Rural pockets such as Selwyn, Waimakariri and the Hurunui District are among the busiest, with lifestyle blocks close to Christchurch also proving popular. Aaron says enquiries reflect a wider lifestyle shift. “The last few years have made people reassess what they want. Whether it’s more space, connection to land or simply a better-designed home, people are ready to invest in where and how they live,” he says. They say the new regions, David Reid Homes Christchurch North and Christchurch South, are well placed to meet this demand. Under the leadership of Carl and Aaron, David Reid Homes has strengthened its reputation for detailed craftsmanship, architectural integrity and client-centred service. The former entity, David Reid Homes Canterbury, earned multiple Registered Master Builders House of the Year awards, most recently securing Gold and Silver in 2024. The franchise has built extensively across rural Canterbury gaining valuable experience designing for varied landscapes and microclimates. “From Castle Hill to Darfield, and Hurunui through to Leeston, every area has its own quirks,” explains Carl. “In the high country homes need to withstand snow and wind while out on the Plains it’s the relentless nor’wester we design around. And in Christchurch we’re often working within established neighbourhoods, making the most of tighter sites while keeping privacy, sunlight and street appeal front of mind. Whatever the location, we tailor every design to suit the site.” One recent project that captures the rising appeal of rural living is a contemporary farmhouse build in Leeston. Positioned to capture sweeping rural views, the home pairs classic black gable forms with modern glazing and open-plan living. Inside, vaulted ceilings, Mackenzie Stone accents and a warm, understated palette create a sense of everyday luxury. Practical rural features such as generous mudroom spaces and durable materials sit comfortably alongside premium finishes. The pair say rural builds can be complex, involving long driveways, exposed sites, specialised consenting, and coordination with engineers and ECAN. Carl explains that clients value the company’s ability to manage the process end-to-end. “There’s something special about building in rural Canterbury. “The clients are invested in their land, they understand quality, and they’re building homes they plan to be in for decades. Our clients often tell us, ‘That was so much easier than we expected.’ That’s the ultimate compliment,” he says. • For those who want to see the quality on offer, David Reid Homes is building a new showhome in Berryfields Highsted opening May 2026. P. 0210 252 1555 E. info@axionelectrical.co.nz www.axionelectrical.co.nz Like us on Delivering high quality electrical services with over 20years experience in the industry. New Builds / Architectural / Commercial / Renovations & repairs / Security / Communications / Audio Visual Proudly supporting David Reid Homes info@ rstchch.co.nz | 375 0700 www.firstchch.co.nz
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