Here’s how to do a North Island roadie:
Tootle down SH1 and, two and a bit hours later, you’ll be enjoying the sun and sand of the Coromandel Peninsula. Take your time because there’s lots to enjoy – around 400km of coastline, laid-back locals and highly Instagrammable wonders such as Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach.
Join a sea cave tour to explore hidden gems such as Cooks Blowhole and Shakespeare Cliff. Pack your togs because this is ground zero for swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving where you’ll eyeball all manner of marine life.
Speaking of which, afterwards drive to nearby Hahei where you can sample some of the region’s best fish and chips at the Hungri Hunter Gourmet Food Cottage.
Picture frame molding makes the living area feel homey, while cavities in the floor platform stow away all manner of possessions.
Inspired by his own experience living in a cramped tenement apartment, Hong Kong architect Patrick Lam works to maximize small spaces by pushing the boundaries of conventional renovations. In a recent Lantau Island project, the Sim-Plex Design Studio founder combined smart technology, secret storage, and feng shui fittings to transform a cluttered two bedroom into a functional, flexible four bedroom for a young family.
Patrick cleverly reconfigured the layout, blending a new open kitchen into the living area and converting the old kitchen into sleeping quarters. He also installed folding doors that can privatize the living room to host the grandmother who frequently comes for overnight visits.