In association with Kayu Studio.
More than just buying stuff you think you should have, creating a home you absolutely love comes from gradually collecting pieces that reflect your values and enhance your way of life. When that lifestyle includes being rushed off your feet, you’ve gotta love a one-stop shop, and there’s one in Mt Maunganui at which you can stop, shop and stay.
To walk into Kayu Studio is to deeply exhale. A palpably tranquil, must-visit destination for furniture, homeware, lighting and textiles inspired by laidback living, it was founded by Mount local James Mitchell, who followed his passion for surfing around the world before washing ashore in Bali. There he has stayed for a decade, setting up his company Salt Property & Design. Through renovating, styling and renting out boutique accommodation, James became increasingly aware of the multi-sensory influence the things we fill our abodes with can have, and began to imagine a way to evolve his business to offer an elevated edit that embodies his holistic, ethical approach, with an outlet in his hometown.
Today, Kayu (meaning ‘wood’) stocks finds by New Zealand and international makers alongside James’ own exclusive furniture designs influenced by coastal culture and underpinned by fair trade and environmental best practice. Strong forms and quality materials make all of his pieces timeless and durable. Elegant and ergonomic, they’re handmade in Indonesia, predominantly from sustainably sourced and reclaimed teak, a dense hardwood with a gorgeous grain. You’re welcome to work with James on custom creations of your own, but we’re fans in particular of the new Glide range, which features crafted pieces that are beautiful to look at and touch, while the scent of the timber layers the experience of using them with even more appeal.
With Kayu Studio promoting a way of life, short-term accommodation Kayu Casa out the back lets you try it on for size. Amid a soothing sun-bleached and earth-toned interior palette, many of the items in the one-bedroom apartment are available for purchase in store next door. Stay for a while or simply pop into the ultra-serene retail space to pick up a piece or two. Either way, we can confirm you and your home will feel better for it.
kayustudio.co.nz