Bold and beautiful
A lesson in using bold colour paired with a simple and refined style.
A lesson in using bold colour paired with a simple and refined style.
styling AMBER ARMITAGE @ MARIGOLD
photos WENDY FENWICK @ FLASH STUDIOS
wall colours RESENE PAINTS
Above
Main wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Bianca, left wall and cabinet in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Resolution Blue and dining room in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Coral Tree.
Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Breathe Easy. Trove Wrap occasional chair, Hayes side table, Hayes dining table 4 seater, Rye dining arm chairs, all from Soren Liv. 'Iris In Enamel Jug' by Neil Driver, available from Parnell Gallery.
Halo Raffia table lamp from Kayu Studio. Ceramic balloon bowl 05 in Raw White, Verso jug, Crystal soda glass, Otto bowls, ceramic basket, all from Slow Store. Safi rug from Baya.
Above
Wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Coral Tree, wall trim in SpaceCote Flat in Resene Prairie Sand.
'Seeing Rainbows' by Greer Clayton available from Parnell Gallery.
Fin bedside table by Ellison Studio, Kizu Kable lamp, crystal soda glass, from Slow Store.
Natural linen duvet cover from Foxtrot Home. Brick Linen Lodge pillowcases, Cabin wool blanket, Folio cushion cover, oversized carryall bag all from Citta.
Stylist’s tip
When using a bold statement wall colour keep your furniture and homeware selections aligned with the same aesthetic. Simple bold furniture shapes (such as the curves on the bedside and lamp) work well, as do oversized patterns and block colours that are a tint or tone of the wall colour.
Above
Back wallpainted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Resolution Blue, front wall and slats in SpaceCote Flat in Resene Bianca.
Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Breathe Easy. Seville tile side table from Soren Liv.
'Islands On The Edge' by Shona Mackenzie, available from Parnell Gallery.
Ceramic basket from Slow Store.
Above
Wall, shelf and cabinet painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Resolution Blue.
Hayes side table and Rufus curve bookends from Soren Liv.
'Tide Times' by Greer Clayton available from Parnell Gallery.
Halo Raffia table lamp from Kayu Studio.
Muse 2 seater and Yoko capsule coffee table by Ellison Studio, bubble glass grape tray, ceramic basket, all from Slow Store.
Gene woven cushion from Citta. Safi rug from Baya.
Lady Aorangi
An infusion of 1930s charm and modern high-end luxury, this exquisite home balances historic grandeur and inviting warmth.
An infusion of 1930s charm and modern high-end luxury, this exquisite home balances historic grandeur and inviting warmth.
words JO FERRIS
History blends the sentiment of heritage that no modern interpretation could ever replicate in this unique property. Unique, because it was once home to former Tauranga mayor and prominent businessman; the late Sir Bob Owens.
Relocated from its original Avenues’ address to just outside Bethlehem, ‘Aorangi’ derived its name – cloud in the sky – from the mysticism that Wairoa Valley instils when clouds shroud the river below this home. The heritage of this 1930s’ native timber residence has remained intact, thanks to a sensitive renovation.
Committed to its memory, the owners undertook a significant project that involved sourcing the best money can buy – importing much of the fittings and materials. It is a tribute to their dedication, that this home retains an extraordinary blend of yesterday, while ensuring today’s comfort and modern heating systems.
Name dropping is no attempt at ostentation in this case. Brands like Perrin and Rowe, Burlington, Hinkley and Ralph Lauren simply highlight the superior quality that enhances the décor here.
Italian marble counters in the kitchen, with its Lacanche oven and Gaggenau appliances sit effortlessly beside New Zealand rimu flooring.
No detail has been overlooked – from obvious features that showcase 18th Century William Morris wallpaper recreations, plush drapes or moody tone of wainscoting in the master study to the subtle finish of architraves, lighting and display elements – this home is an inspiration of design appreciation.
It attracts casual family living and the habitual desire to congregate around the island bar in the kitchen. It invites formal dining and those grand occasions with crowds; family room comfort and an office area for paperwork.
A second lounge and generous reception room expand space for different entertainment and alternative moments.
This is a significant home – two bedrooms and bathroom downstairs; three more upstairs and the private study with its ambience of a gentlemen’s club. It separates two bedrooms and family bathrooms from the master suite.
Naturally the largest bedroom, it features four separate closets, a cosy cushioned window seat and private bathroom. Every room is personalised – tone, texture and clever contrast instilled through colour.
Outdoor connections provide different perspectives on the garden and view across Wairoa Valley. The swimming pool is the one token of contemporary context within the property; sitting in a corner of its own, sheltered behind the garage.
Homes of this calibre and history in Tauranga are rare. It’s nice knowing this has survived where others have disappeared. Sir Bob Owens would be proud.
93 Wairoa Road, Wairoa OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM
Reach for the sky
This exceptional home is a haven of privacy. The property's sleek design and breathtaking sky views add to what is the height of modern luxury - and to top off its impressive features is a truffle orchard of hundreds of oak trees.
This exceptional home is a haven of privacy. The property's sleek design and breathtaking sky views add to what is the height of modern luxury - and to top off its impressive features is a truffle orchard of hundreds of oak trees.
words Jo Ferris | photos Hunter Studios
Situated in the Oropi hills, this serene, minimalist home is surrounded by nature and designed with ultimate privacy and security in mind. Nestled within blissful seclusion at the end of a private road, the property offers gated vehicle entry and a helicopter landing option for increased anonymity.
The home was built by multi-award-winning Shaw Builders and designed to a specific brief. Beautiful in its simplicity, the home disguises the extraordinary complexity behind its creation. It embraces 800m² of understated luxury to combine modern design with meticulous craftmanship.
Floor-to-ceiling windows, all-day sun, and views as far as the eye can see blend to create airy, light-filled spaces. Lush, sub-tropical gardens surround the home to instill tranquility and provide intimacy in various rooms and outdoor settings.
Architectural design wraps this home around a swimming pool with waterfall to create a resort worthy of a tropical escape. Views stretch out to embrace Mauao, Tauranga and offshore islands beyond – a reminder that this stunning setting is a discovery of true surprise.
The interior design features clean, bold lines, negative details and high-end finishes with top-of-the-line appliances. A cosy wood fire in the dining room is perfect for intimate occasions, while the chef’s kitchen and lounge serve as the central hub for gatherings.
Equipped with Crestron home automation, this home provides comfort and privacy with ensuite bedrooms for family and guests, together with a separate apartment for extended family. With its own entry, private patio and personal garage, this suite has also been designed to double as an executive workplace. Completing the home’s forethought for work and leisure, it includes a dedicated gym, office and media hideaway.
Once farmland, this 12-hectare estate has been transformed into a sanctuary for birds and nature playground. Walking and riding trails wind through native bush, with streams and springs. Along with the tropical gardens and grasses embracing the house, specialty plantings throughout the estate reinforce how the micro-climate has rewarded this property’s development. Stands of redwoods, specimens and berries, fruit and nut trees – nature thrives here.
Of particular note is the truffière – 750 specialty oak trees on park-like slopes that add peace, tranquility, and a potential future income.
This unique Oropi retreat combines luxury with natural beauty to highlight how thoughtful design can blend with nature to be at one with the world and offer an unparalleled living experience.
Nga Parae Rd, Oropi