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Inspiration from Venice – Peter Visits Zanutta

While in Venice, Peter from Home Trends Builders Ltd stopped by Zanutta, a leading showroom in Italian building design. He explored premium fittings, smart design concepts, and sustainable materials—key elements that align with his vision for modern, high-quality homes in New Zealand.

The visit sparked fresh ideas that will influence upcoming projects. Watch this space!

Peter’s been checking out some seriously cool Italian design ideas — everything from smart fittings to stylish finishes. Plenty of inspo to bring back home for future builds in NZ! 🛠️🏠

Home Trends Builders’ Visit to S.Anselmo Bricks: A Glimpse into Timeless Craftsmanship and Innovation

At Home Trends Builders, we’re always seeking the best in building materials, blending tradition with innovation to create unique and enduring structures. This week, Peter and Elaine had the exciting opportunity to visit one of the leaders in high-quality masonry products—S.Anselmo Bricks, located in Venice, Italy.

Discovering the Craft of S.Anselmo Bricks

For over half a century, S.Anselmo has been producing exquisite handmade bricks that stand the test of time. Their craftsmanship focuses on combining the natural beauty of clay with a sophisticated modern touch. The company is renowned for its wide array of products, ranging from traditional handmade bricks to innovative contemporary designs. S.Anselmo’s most distinctive feature is their ability to create not just building materials, but timeless pieces that elevate the aesthetic value of any architectural project.

During their visit, Peter and Elaine got an in-depth tour of the state-of-the-art facility where the magic happens. The tour included a close-up look at their manufacturing process, where tradition meets cutting-edge technology, ensuring that each brick maintains the integrity of its craftsmanship while meeting modern construction standards.

Manufacturing Process

 

An up-close look at the advanced manufacturing machinery used at S.Anselmo. This behind-the-scenes view highlights the intricate process of creating each brick.

Brick Selection

Peter discusses the different styles of bricks at S.Anselmo’s warehouse, where products are carefully stored and ready for use in projects worldwide.

The Perfect Fit for ‘Dublin Central’

One of the most exciting takeaways from the visit was the opportunity to choose materials for ‘Dublin Central’, our upcoming development. After seeing S.Anselmo’s range of products, we’re thrilled to announce that we will be using their stunning Italian Glazed 70 Series Green Clay Brick for the facade of this prestigious project.

The 70 Series Green Clay Brick features a unique, glossy finish that blends elegance with sustainability. The green tone adds a natural, organic look, which beautifully complements the Christchurch Central landscape. The use of these premium bricks will not only enhance the building’s aesthetic but also ensure long-lasting durability and performance.

Selecting Bricks

Exploring various colours and finishes, Peter and Elaine carefully select the right style for the ‘Dublin Central’ project, considering both design and functionality.

Why Choose S.Anselmo for ‘Dublin Central’

There are several reasons why Home Trends Builders is excited to incorporate S.Anselmo’s bricks into the ‘Dublin Central’ project:

  • Timeless Aesthetic Appeal: S.Anselmo’s bricks have a distinct elegance, perfect for creating a sophisticated and modern look for any building.
  • Sustainability: S.Anselmo is committed to sustainable production methods, ensuring that their materials are eco-friendly and built to last.
  • Durability: The high-quality craftsmanship and premium materials used in every brick ensure long-term performance, even in harsh weather conditions.
  • Unique Customisation: S.Anselmo offers a variety of finishes and colours, making it easy to match the bricks with the architectural style and design needs of the project.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Showroom Tour

Inside S.Anselmo’s expansive showroom, Peter was able to view and touch sample bricks, helping him finalise his decision on materials for the project.

Looking Ahead

At Home Trends Builders, we’re always looking to push the boundaries of design, and our partnership with S.Anselmo is a testament to that commitment. The decision to use the 70 Series Green Clay Brick in ‘Dublin Central’ marks a new chapter in our quest to bring together exceptional craftsmanship, innovative materials, and sustainable construction.

Final Tour

We can’t wait to see the final results and share more updates on the project in the coming months. Stay tuned for more exciting developments from Home Trends Builders!

The tour culminated in a final walkthrough of S.Anselmo’s impressive production line, giving Peter and Elaine a comprehensive view of how their future building materials come to life.

Dublin Central: A New Standard of Urban Living in Christchurch, NZ

Dublin Central: A New Standard of Urban Living in Christchurch

By Home Trends Builders Ltd

Welcome to Dublin Central — where bold design meets luxurious urban living in the heart of Christchurch. Developed by Home Trends Builders Ltd, this visionary project sets a new benchmark for inner-city residences, blending international design cues with local sensibility.

Project Vision: Reimagining City Living

Dublin Central was born from a desire to offer something different — a more elevated, bespoke city living experience in Christchurch. Traditionally, urban apartments have leaned toward compact and utilitarian. Dublin Central challenges that norm by delivering spacious, design-led homes shaped for lifestyle and longevity.

Positioned on perfectly shaped land just steps from the central city yet tucked quietly on Dublin Street, this location provides the best of both worlds: vibrancy and serenity. Each home is held under a freehold title, with no body corporate — giving homeowners complete independence and long-term value.

Design & Architecture: Where Form Meets Flair

Home Trends Builders partnered with multi-award-winning designer Steve Butterworth and interior stylist Kirsty Davis to shape the aesthetic of Dublin Central. The result? Four bold and expressive homes that push the boundaries of urban design in Christchurch.

From the Italian handmade green-glazed brick façade to the cedar panelling, mechanical shutters, and natural stone interiors, every detail has been carefully considered. Inside, you’ll find rich textures, moody tones, and architectural elements like steel-framed glass doors and ambient lighting that create a truly refined atmosphere.

Functionality, Sustainability & Lifestyle

Beyond good looks, Dublin Central is built to perform. Energy-efficient materials such as low-carbon concrete, solar panels, wool carpet, and low-E glass windows support sustainable living, while thoughtful layout decisions maximise space, light, and flow.

Each residence includes:

  • A designer kitchen with scullery and high-end appliances 
  • Multiple powder rooms for everyday convenience 
  • A rooftop Skydeck complete with bar, outdoor kitchen, and hot tub-ready zones for unparalleled entertaining 

Construction Timeline & Availability

Construction began in May 2025, with completion scheduled for mid-2026. Despite early regulatory challenges, the project team overcame hurdles through expert collaboration and unwavering vision.
Only four homes are being built — and with one already pre-sold, interest is expected to move quickly when marketing officially launches in July 2025.

A Prime Inner-City Location

Tucked away just off the city centre, Dublin Central offers a quiet retreat with all the perks of central living. Residents will enjoy walking distance to Hagley Park, cultural destinations, boutique cafes, and top-tier schools — all while living on a peaceful, tree-lined street with four-car garages and rooftop views.

 

At its core, Dublin Central isn’t just about homes — it’s about raising the bar for what urban living can be. From its world-class finishes to its low-maintenance, high-function design, this development is a standout in both vision and execution.

With over 40 years of experience, Home Trends Builders Ltd continues to deliver exceptional homes that embody quality, craftsmanship, and lifestyle-driven design. Dublin Central is the next chapter in that story — and a bold step forward for Christchurch living.

A beauty on Wairarapa

This stunning new build overlooking the Wairarapa Stream is nearing completion just in time for Christmas. Once again constructed by the outstanding team from Home Trends Builders. It looks amazing guys, and a job well done with very happy clients waiting to move in.

 

National Winners

What a night the team from Home Trends builders had when they took home a ‘National Award” at this year’s Registered Master Builders “House of The Year’.  We are so proud of the team and wish to thank everyone who was involved in bringing this beautiful home together.

 

CBS CO-OP

Home Trends Builders Ltd are proud members of the Combined Building Supplies Cooperative.  Joining this co-op has been a real bonus for HTB, as it has not only introduced us to many new and reputable suppliers and contractors, but it has also engaged our company in achieving better purchasing power over numerous categories.  A win-win situation for not only ourselves but our clients too.

TOP 100

We are so excited to receive the news that 2 of our stunning homes have made it through to the National House of the Year finals.  These homes are in the Top 100 in New Zealand.  Wish us luck for re-judging which will be coming up soon.

 

Catergory Winner – House Of The Year

What a special night the team from Home Trends Builders had at the Registered Master Builders, Canterbury ‘House Of the Year Awards’ last weekend.  Receiving Gold, Category Winner, and the Sustainable Award for ‘Builders Own Home”.  So proud of the team.