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Cattle farmers build their dream home in rural North Otago

 A farming family decided to start from scratch rather than renovate – the results are a modern farmhouse that’s everything they dreamed of and more 

Who lives here? 

Sarah Isbister, husband Gareth (both cattle farmers), and Harriet, 3, plus border terrier Floyd and Poppy the cat.

 New-build tips

  • Have fun! Building a house is such a huge and daunting task but it is also one of the most exciting and rewarding things we’ve ever done.
  • Stick to your guns. If there is something you really want there will always be a way to achieve it.
  • Don’t give yourself too many options. Narrow it down to two or three options and make your decision from there.
  • Splurge on one or two items. See if you can cut costs elsewhere so that you can have that one really special feature you’ll always love.
  • Take your time in the design stage. Once building is under way it could be too late to change your mind.

Words by: Debbie Harrison. Photography by: Kate Claridge.

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