A place to call home: Shell & Lee’s Story
First home feels with a Taranaki view
Shell and Lee’s journey to building their home started just before the world took a turn with COVID. It was a daunting time, but with a little courage and a lot of heart, they decided to press on.
“The first time we saw the section in Bell Block, the sun was setting over Mt Taranaki- it just felt right,” says Shell.
Originally from the UK, Shell and Lee made the move to Taranaki six years ago, bringing their well-behaved pup Bodhi with them. Local kitty Pumpkin soon joined the crew, and with matching fur (and personalities), the pair have become quite the duo- and social media stars too! @bodhi_pumpkin_andfriends
After house-hunting for some time, Shell and Lee realised that building would give them the freedom to create a home that truly fit their lifestyle (and their fur babies).
The Brief: room to live, love & lounge
From the get-go, Shell and Lee knew what they wanted: a home that felt good to live in, with spaces to host family from the UK, unwind with a movie, and plenty of room for Bodhi and Pumpkin to stretch their paws. Yes, there’s even a ‘pet garden’ just for them!
Open-plan living was high on the wishlist, with a kitchen made for cooking, baking, and all the chat that happens in between.
“The chance to design our plan was amazing,” Shell shares.
The Plan: ticking all the boxes
After exploring lots of Signature plans, they found the one -the Tavai from Signature's pre-designed plans. With great flow, open-plan living, and indoor-outdoor connection from both ends of the home, it was an easy choice.
Together with the Signature Homes design team, Shell and Lee added their own touches- more space in the living area, a separate laundry, big sliding doors and picture windows to soak in that stunning Taranaki view.
The Look: A touch of the UK, alot of Aotearoa
Shell and Lee’s style blends classic and coastal. The white brick exterior with black joinery is a nod to their roots in England, while native plants and flax-inspired tones bring in the Kiwi feel.
Inside, it’s all about texture and tone - think rustic concrete, timber accents, and a colour palette that echoes the Taranaki coastline. Even the pets coordinate (accidentally, they promise!).
“It was important for our home to reflect where we live and love—Taranaki,” says Shell.
A Favourite Feature
It’s hard to pick just one thing, but Shell and Lee agree: the custom barn door, crafted by a local fabricator in blued steel, is a standout. Both functional and beautiful, it separates the media room and acts as a piece of art in its own right.
The Build: Signature build experience
From first visit to final key handover, Shell and Lee describe their Signature Homes experience as nothing short of fantastic.
“The team always made us feel welcome and supported. Even with COVID disruptions, we felt looked after every step of the way,” they say.
Their Advice?
“All the decisions can be a bit overwhelming, but also really fun. Be kind, have a clear vision, and enjoy the journey.”
They imagined how they’d live in the home day-to-day- and that helped guide every choice. With a bit of Pinterest inspiration and a solid team behind them, they brought their vision to life.
Now, Shell and Lee (and Bodhi and Pumpkin) are living the life they dreamed of - right where they’re meant to be.
Shell & Lee's Signature Greenprint
