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
“I’ve never really thought of myself as having a certain ‘style’ but for this home we wanted to go for a modern country look,” Sarah explains. “I wanted to mirror the colours and things we see out our windows: the sky, river, animals, grass. We absolutely love living in the country and wanted our house to reflect this.”
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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The master bedroom is a real favourite – its soft, relaxing tones and filtered sunlight have an instantly calming effect. Sarah says it’s the ideal place to lie in the afternoon sun and read a book.

Visitors often comment on the feeling of openness and space when they walk into the kitchen and living area with its large windows and vaulted ceiling.

Using Resene ‘Eighth Friar Grey’ in the living areas gives a nice depth of colour without being too overpowering or distracting from the gorgeous country view.

Sarah has used a variety of lights to add interest and create distinct zones within the open-plan area.

“We wanted some colour but also a nice backdrop for artwork,” explains Sarah.

The natural tones and elements result in the home having an overall atmosphere of calm and tranquillity.

The custom-made headboard was essential for storage because there wasn’t enough space for bedside tables.

Three-year-old Harriet chose the colour for the bottom half of her bedroom walls. “We gave her a selection of pinks with a blue thrown in for something different and she chose the blue,” says Sarah.

“We wanted a space that we could all use and feel at home in. I love that Harriet can ride her scooter from one end of the house to the other because of the hard flooring in the hallways and living space. She can play in this house without feeling like she’s not allowed to touch anything,” Sarah says.

A floating vanity and a bathroom cabinet and mirror in one both give the illusion of more space.

The couple have maximised storage in the bathroom with some clever choices, such as a built-in shelf in the shower.

The blue grouting was a happy accident that the couple absolutely love now.