My HOME

Where is your home and how long have you lived here?

On Nile Street, up the Maitai River. We came to Nelson from Waiheke Island three years ago.

What four words would you use to describe your home?

Grand, refined, respectful, gemütlich.

What inspired this look?

The skills of craftsmen over 100 years ago. We believe the home was built in about 1915.

What’s your decorating style?

Historical. It reflects our journey around the world, from Germany to England and New Zealand, with visits to many places en route.

Where do you shop for homewares?

Wherever individual pieces are on display. Storey Collection on Collingwood Street is a favourite.

What piece would you never part with?

The solid oak chair by American artist David Delthony. It was manufactured in Berlin in the late 1970s and was my wedding gift from Christine.

What should every home have?

A front door, with a working bell. It is the entry to the home and a welcome for visitors.

When it comes to homeware, do you save or splurge?

Save. But when the temptation is too strong, we succumb!

Which items or fixtures did you splurge on and where did you save?

We splurged on infrastructure, insulating the walls, double-glazing the sash windows, and installing central heating with upright radiators coloured for each room. We saved on bathroom and kitchen tiles by using rubber gym mats for warmth and comfort.

Have you done any renovations?

Plenty. Boxing in the kitchen deck and adding roller blinds has been wonderful; there is space to move on a windy, rainy day.

What’s your favourite spot in the house?

Lying in bed on a clear morning, with the sun casting colour shadows from the leadlight windows.

What’s your favourite room?

The sunroom. Christine decorated it to feel like under a cherry tree in full bloom. A nod to our experience in Japan.

Best seat in the house?

The sofa in the kitchen/dining/living. If the dog makes space, that is.

Did any of your purchases cause a debate? Just discussion, no debate.

What should every home have?

Comfort. A good sofa that you sit in, not on. If you had a day to refresh your home what would you do? Make a large pot of coffee and enjoy the way it is!

What is one thing you would change about your home if you could?

Enlarge the space between the garage and house so a trailer can get into the garden.

Best budget tip?

A professional paint. Shuttleworth prepped the wood thoroughly and gave it a paint that will last a long time.

Best money spent?

Central heating. The upright radiators heat the whole room.

Do you have any tips on how to keep your living area orderly?

Send the kids to boarding school?

What do you love about the neighbourhood where you live?

The stability and friendliness of the residents. Most have been here for 30 years or so.

Best memory in your home?

A sense of belonging, both in the house and the area. It was a very warm welcome to Nelson.

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