Words from Editor Alice Lines
When it comes to new builds and renovations, there are any number of expressions you could choose to encapsulate the ups and downs of the process. When the team and I were bandying about ideas for this issue’s cover lines, ‘character building’ was a phrase that stuck for us. A certain strength is required for the decision making around sale-and-purchase and consent procedures alone, so it’s no mean feat to realise your dream home — especially in this economic climate. Despite the hurdles, though, creativity keeps knocking at my door — emails from architects, interior designers and proud homeowners alike popping up in my inbox as they seek to share their ideas and individuality with you.
We were chuffed when interior designer and director of Ko & Ko Thandi Tipene got in touch to tell us about the recently completely Taranaki home that graces our cover. It’s not the first time we’ve featured her work (we profiled her and her co-director husband Bachelor’s own home in October/November 2018), and it’s inspiring to see how her aesthetic has evolved since we last caught up. This time around, she and Bachelor collaborated with architect Ken Crosson on a home with an interesting twist — be surprised and delighted by its special details.
It’s also a repeat appearance in homestyle for Gretchen Lowe and her husband Blair Houston. There’s no stopping this talented duo, who have a knack for taking on the crummiest houses in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland’s inner west and DIYing the heck out of them to create personality-filled family spaces. I’m especially a fan of the second-hand items Gretchen has scored for the interior of their home — see what you think.
The character continues as we talk to Ross Morrison — known to many mid-century collectors as Mr Mod — about decking out his iconic 1968 Ian Athfield-designed dwelling in Ōtautahi/Christchurch with pieces from his enviable hoard of furniture and objects. If you find yourself picturing yourself in these scenes, there are opportunities for you to visit or stay — read the story to learn how.
