DESIGN EDIT ISSUE 46 | DESIGN TOUR
THE BRIEF
Impressive and expansive views inspired the interiors of this home - a finishes palette led by nature, views of cliffs, rock pools, sand and the sea. Returning to New Zealand after 35 years abroad, we created a home for our client to enjoy the unique kiwi lifestyle he had dreamt of. We responded to a brief to completely furnish the home to create a relaxed and welcoming sanctuary, a home that was practical in its seaside location, as well as timelessly stylish.
COLLABORATORS
As well as working with a client who was based on the other side of the world for the duration of the project, we also grappled with the challenges created by extended lockdowns and the COVID pandemic, which caused havoc to supply chains both here and around the world. We were incredibly grateful for the hard work of our supply partners who ensured everything was completed, delivered and in place ready for our client’s much anticipated arrival.
““Ambient lighting, refinished timber flooring and a nature inspired colour palette lend warmth to the spaces, while the layered textures add a feeling of style and luxury” ”
INSPIRATION
The proximity to and views of the ocean are referenced in the material, colour and furniture selections. Sandy taupes, ocean blues, stoney greys, sun baked clays with brushed metal accents, in layered textures of thick weaves, linen, rough sawn timber and a touch of velvet.
DESIGN DETAILS
Ambient lighting, refinished timber flooring and a nature inspired colour palette lend warmth to the spaces, while the layered textures add a feeling of style and luxury.
We also selected furniture pieces that are not only practical but also look timelessly stylish. Favourite pieces include the sofa with the clever hinged headrest. Paired with pill shaped ottomans that double duty as footrests, coffee tables and extra seating. And we always love pieces that have a story to them - like the solid oak dining table in hand crafted timber sourced from old farm buildings in Europe and the school of swimming fish leading visitors through the entrance of the home to the living area beyond. And all pieces were selected to have a low profile, allowing unobstructed views to the sea beyond.
INSIDE EDGE
This home has amazing north facing, floor to ceiling windows to take in the views. However this abundance of sunshine needed to be taken into consideration when selecting fabrics - of course they had to be super stylish, but they also needed to be high performing and UV resistant to be good looking for years to come. And Archie the Cavoodle also travelled from the other side of the world to this new home - so we knew all selections had to be puppy proof! We chose fabrics in man-made, synthetic fibres for extra durability, and out door fabrics that look and feel beautiful but are super heavy duty performers.
THE RESULT
In this home we have created spaces that feel like you don’t want to leave them - sofas where you can rest and relax in the upmost comfort, outdoor seating to lie on and read in the shade, enjoy an espresso in the morning sun or evening gin. It’s a place for the client to enjoy our unique Kiwi lifestyle and surrounds. A place to finally call home after many years abroad.
