Truly, I’m not the least bit show-offish by nature, but I am proud of home #7 - its narrative speaks of a hardworking family who swamped themselves in property projects. We didn’t move once or twice in the past 18 years… we shifted seven times. From major renovations to minor cosmetic twists, we never drifted far from a local Mitre 10 and our weekends were filled with DIY.

Houses 1-6 saw an endless to-do list unfold. Sanding, prepping and painting timber window frames felt like my only occupation some days. But it was house #3 that wiped the smile from our enthusiastic DIY faces. Honestly, major renovations and a subdivision project at the same time is not for the faint-hearted. When I recall the bill for that fancy underground drilling equipment, or the coordination of 16 neighbouring signature consents - ouch. That’s putting it politely.

House #7 was worth waiting for. Calling for NO renovations meant I got to play Stylemaker right away. #7 is a shining example of what I promote daily as an interior designer. It’s my practice what I preach case study. Through the lens of talented Studio Weir, let me share a couple of these points.

What house #7 taught me (and can teach you too)

• Mixing old treasures with new can have delightful results, it’s now my favourite thing to do.

• The McNamaras are snob averse. We love a good Kmart find, happily mixing it with high-end ticket items. That swanky side table is actually a Kmart original with a piece of marble and a lick of paint applied.

• We love a dollop of empty space. An over-filled or gussied-up room? Blah the energy wanes.

• Consistency is a word a good designer says at least 10 times a day - think colour as a common theme.

• Every room needs more than one light source and detailing is so important. Like our hand-carved box for the TV remotes, the little pieces really count. They turn bland items into something unique.

• Make you home office beautiful, mine was a godsend and fuelled my motivation. Although mental note to self…locate it far from the fridge.

Are we done yet? Oh hell no! We kissed #7 goodbye after just three years of DIY-free bliss. After a 20 year wait my beloved will realise a dream to build a house, and we are currently knee deep in this exciting project. The kids are far from dependent on us and isn’t #8 a lucky number?

Robyn’s support of the New Zealand design industry is to be applauded. Using elegant photography and snappy words, she is putting the spotlight on many talented Kiwi creatives, and capturing a heavy following. 

Gracing her blog, Coopers Interiors, are a mix of architects, artists, interior designers, and others. Everything is pieced together from a solid awareness of beautiful design, and her genuine love of New Zealand’s finest interior products and design services. Robyn was a spatial design graduate in 2012, and now works as a graphic designer for a large venue company in Melbourne.

Her passion for interior design and her understanding of how people move through a space, literally squeals from the screen.

Robyn knocked our creative socks off when she reached out for a Q&A- so in good Stlyemaker fashion, we have now turned the tables and feature her below.

Describe your blog with only 5 words  (I didn't think 3 was enough)
Inspiring, insightful, modern, simplistic and creative

What drove you to start the blog? / Where did your love of design blossom?
I think my love for design blossomed in high school. I took art, graphics, design and photography classes which were such a great outlet for me at the time. I didn't start the blog until I started university however. it started as an Instagram page, it wasn't until I moved to London that I was inspired to start a New Zealand design blog to share the talent we have in our little corner of the world.

What are a few resources you would recommend to someone looking to gain insight into starting out in this industry?
There are so many brilliant resources I would recommend for someone looking to gain insight into graphic or interior design industries. Here are just a few...

• Linkedin, never underestimate the power of good referees, your relationships and connecting with industry experts you can learn from

• Cooper Interiors, slightly biased but the creative Q&As are so inspiring! Especially for New Zealanders who can feel so detached from the rest of the world/ industry

• Blogs and Forums such as Design Milk, Girl Boss, Arch Daily, Creative Review, Dezeen, Houzz and Behance

Most enjoyable aspect of your job
Definitely coordinating photoshoots when I get the chance and just creating artwork for such different brands everyday.

Your outlook for your industry for next 5 years
Graphic design for marketing purposes is predominantly digital now or is at least heading in that direction. Creating things that last longer than a flash banner or an Instagram story that still reach a large audience will be harder to achieve... I tend to appreciate good quality print design and craftsmanship so much more now that is becoming a rarity in this particular industry.

What might (someone) be surprised to know about you?
I'm a HUGE Elvis Presley fan.

What is the most rewarding experience you ever have had and what made it so?
Probably moving to London after graduating university. I learnt so much about myself and what I am capable of. The whole experience was rewarding, kick starting my design career in England and moving out of a junior role in under a year was a huge highlight for me. I also met so many interesting and wonderful people which made the experiences I had unforgettable.

Who or what inspires you and why?
So many people/things! I love hearing other peoples stories which is why every second blog post is a creative Q&A. Learning how New Zealanders created a place for themselves in the industry they are so passionate about and worked hard to get there, really motivates me. I really hope it inspires other creatives too!

What is one word that your friends would use to describe you?
Ollie said lovely, Sophie said loyal and Hannah said driven.

Favourite guilty pleasure
Napping... as much as possible.

If you could meet any celebrity or person in the world who would it be?
This is a hard one, there are so many inspiring women I'd love to meet, but my answer has to be Beyonce.

Favourite travel destination
Rome. I can't wait to explore more of Italy one day!

Most adventurous thing you have done
Probably my Thailand trip! I volunteered at an elephant sanctuary then stayed in a small beach town over 3 weeks in 2014.

What is the last book you read
A murder mystery by Henning Mankell

What do you value most in other people
Honesty and kindness

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given
"Just do it"

What is your favourite colour
Dark Green.

What cities have you lived in and which is your favourite?
I grew up in Auckland then (after graduating university) moved to London where I lived for for just over two years. I now live in Melbourne. So far, London is my favourite city to live in but Auckland will always be 'home'. Melbourne is growing on me though!

Describe your dream home
White and grey colour scheme with lots of foliage, maybe even a green wall in the kitchen. It would have to have a big back yard with a pool, perfect for entertaining in Summer. Tall ceilings, concrete floors, lots of large windows, located near the beach. It'd also be covered in cosy throws and rugs and be a safe haven for all friends and family. Can you tell I think about this a lot...?

We can’t thank you enough for your votes. Ole London town kicked up its heels at a ritzy awards ceremony on 25thOctober while we waited (impatiently) in Aotearoa for news.  

Eeep… we were crowned, WINNER. 

We feel so humbled to be chosen from such epic talent, everyone is very deserving.

About the Awards

The Amara Interior Blog Awards celebrates and engages with the most authoritative and respected bloggers in the interior blogging industry. Believing that bloggers are an integral part of the interior design community, the Amara Team has worked closely with many of these talented individuals over the years and strive to give back to this vibrant community through the awards. A concept first introduced in 2013, the Amara Interior Blog Awards include a series of phases throughout a three month period from nominations & voting, to shortlisting, and the project culminates in an annual awards ceremony attended by the shortlisted bloggers, sponsors and judges.

For the 2018 awards we will be introducing a brand new shortlisting system which will combine the judges’ views and the public vote to give the blogs in each category an overall score. The blogs with the highest overall score in each category will go through to the shortlist and be invited to attend the 2018 awards ceremony. The bloggers’ Choice Award is the most sought-after accolade of the awards and is awarded to the most outstanding blog on the shortlist. The winner of this special award will be selected from the shortlist by the bloggers involved in the entire 2018 campaign.

So throw on your cape, wave a wand or wiggle the nose… it’s time to boost your superhero status by creating a stylish, and like, totally #kewl kids bedroom.

1) Be Functyle - Functyle is a cheeky little blend of style and function, and while it can seem tricky to perfect the pair, the hack here is to think of nailing the basics first - bedlinen, window treatments and furniture. - The discipline of Superwoman will be required to shop on task and not be tempted by all the cuteness. Take a step back, pause, and identify exactly what the room requires before you spree. - Justify pricey furniture items by keeping them timeless - something that will last through all the ages and stages. Keep the price tag low when it comes to kooky colours or fad items, that way you both win.

2) Storage Savvy - Storage is a game changer. If we follow the tried and true adage of ‘a place for everything and everything in its place’ we quickly identify all the treasures, clothes, and even the rubbish that requires a storage solution. - Don’t forget to jot down the measurements. Turn it into a game, let your child run the builders tape, and then it’s your turn – measure twice, shop once. - If cupboard space is limited, metal lockers are a fantastic alternative and kids love them. Or wall-mounted timber boxes can be efficient little space savers, with style to boot.

3) Little Show-off - While you are shaping the next Picasso and losing space on the fridge, your darling will love having an area to showcase their latest creation. For a bolder impact, group all of those handcrafted pieces, paintings and drawings together in a dedicated area of the room. - While we’re showing off our arty side, remember to use wallpaper and/or paint to decorate sections of the bedroom without great expense. Instant artwork can be achieved using masking tape and paint.

4) Let’s Bedazzle - Now that you’ve measured every inch of space, shopped with precision and gone all neutral and sensible for the big-ticket items, it’s time to throw out the rule book and welcome in the garlands, bunting and all that other magical bling. Weaving in pops of handcrafted treasures, family heirlooms, or simply an on-trend print, can pack a punch without expense. - If the finishing touches mean staying tight to the animal, cartoon, or sporting theme, that’s okay just run with it. Your child will love you for it, the crush will fade and you can change it later. - Think like a child… thrill little minds with interesting wallpaper or decals, don’t limit it to the walls – the ceiling is another surface to express creativity, yet it’s easily forgotten.

OUR TOP 7 BUYS

1. Ikea Ledge – perfect for certificates, books, toy collections, holiday pics, framed artwork. TIP: they look great hung in a row the length of your wall, get your local Cut Shop to trim to size.  Ledge availeble from AKIA 

2. Hooks - ideal for caps, swimming bags, dress-ups and a great tool to get things off the floor mocka.co.nz

3. Wall decals - easy to install and affordable yourdecalshop.co.nz

4. Storage - considered storage, underneath bed, ottomans with lids, lockers from Mustard Made (NZ Stockists: Shut the Front Door and Veranda)

5. Height Chart - Love Bradbury , NZ made goodness

6. Paper lightshades - www.wahlee.co.nz

7. My top wallpaper pick - Graham & Brown Frames wallpaper available at Guthrie Bowron $85.99 per roll, give the kiddos full freedom to draw to their hearts content. 

This book had me at; “A home is one of our most important creations. Within its frame, we create lifelong memories and manage our lives…” and, “Homes must not start with the end in mind.

They need to begin with our story. To unearth a home, we have to dig deep, to understand
ourselves as well as others who live there… home design should shift from the surface to the
sensory.” If there is one thing I stay true to in my work, it is these very sentiments.
I may had done a little happy jig and skipped all responsibilities to read on.

Real and raw interiors, completely authentic to the clients I help – that’s the yardstick for success in my work. So when author, Natalie Walton, teased this very theme out across the pages of her beautiful book, I could have soaked up a further million pages. It has been delivered in such an intelligent, elegant manner, that it would be remiss of me not to share a review.

While This is Home is a guidebook and pulls its readers back-to-basics for developing heartfelt
interiors, it actually stirs a much deeper response. For me, it reaffirmed a responsibility of
defining exactly what makes a client feel happy at home. To help them live simply within its
frame, and be 100% reflective of their personal needs and style. Natalie, and photographer, Chris Warnes, have nailed this thought and delivered it via a bunch of delicious case studies and stunning photography.

What I appreciated too, was the relevancy of this book. Leaf through this book with confidence – it’s written for you, me and everyone in between. Forget unattainable budgets, pretentious
spaces, or industry-speak language, this book mirrors its theme of living simply – and living true to oneself. Each page is weighted with thought-provoking words and clever ideas. It shuns big dollars and shares how to create a beautiful home on any budget.

Each case study reveals a non-traditional renovation journey. There is a lovely aspirational feel to them, yet timeless and unexpected too. Best of all, they are true homes - completely embracing the people who live within them.

I think Natalie and Chris have created a little piece of style genius, and the book will now hold
centre stage on my coffee table.

Smart. Informative. Beautiful – get your hands on it, or gift it to someone you treasure.

Book purchased from Paper Plane Store

Our homes are just another stage for us to share our treasured bits and bobs.  They're like our favourite outfits, worn with considered little extras - a pop of red lippy, a textured scarf, or our Gran's best pendant.

In my line of work, accessories are a style weapon.  Commonly referred to as the finishing touches, they're the last word in a room, and my god they pack a punch,

• Layering: a nifty trick of making it appear effortlessly pulled together
• Texture: to get our senses firing, texture can transform a room
• Metallics: the glitz jewellery in a room, you have full permission to mix them up
• Collections: scout it out and display away.  The unexpected collections to tell your story
• Keepsakes: the fascinating curios, or family heirlooms.  They don't have to be on-trend, just special to you.

For the self-confessed accessory geeks, you'll love how they fall into three main categories.

1. FUNCTIONAL
   As the name suggests, these are the practical gadgets, the everyday tools and storage.  Because we reach for them on a daily basis, these items are organised in an easy to access manner.
2. MEANINGFUL
   Our houses are teeming with evocative items; interesting snapshots, gifts you hold dear, family portraits.  All these sundry items add up to share your story.  The trick is selecting your absolute faves.
3. EMOTIONAL
   Quite simply, the things that give you all the right feels.  Maybe it's a particular colour (we bet it features strongly in your wardrobe too).  Your personal style will shine brightly in these items.

It may feel like a delicate balancing act to get all the shapes, forms and hues just right, so we're gone all teacher-like and given you a bunch of HOW-TO's:

1. Rugs
Yep, this can be an ouch investment, but don't be tempted to go smaller.  The ideal scenario is to have ALL the furniture legs under the rug, but if you have to, the front legs will suffice.

2. Books
Be a book junkie - they make the perfect gift to yourself.  Stack them within easy reach, and our OCD friends will love this...but honestly, get your colour code going.  Your stacks look so good when used as part of your colour palette, they appear more organised and part of the styling.  If books are not your gig, swap this rule for magazines.

3.Art
Art is emotive, an icebreaker or a talking point - consider the space and how you want to feel.  Art isn't all flat either, it arrives in many forms; framed collections, individual pieces, themed displays, obscure curios, fabric, sculptures.  Don't limit the chance to express yourself.  Expert advice for hanging art is a click away

4. Lamps
Ignite your style with a couple of table lamps.  Both practical and decorative, they add star quality to a reading nook; complete the scene with a woollen blanket and a side table - hello weekend.  Place in pairs and update the shades from time to time.  Scour flea markets and second hand stores for lamp bases, they'll transform with a  lick of paint.

5. Headboards
Custom made or off the shelf, a headboard can really cement the overall style you're aiming for.  Depending on the height and fabric selection, it can also act as a focal point for a room, so get inventive with shape and detailing.  Find the perfect brass buttons or like a piped edge? Splash out... it's all in the finishing touches.

6. Plants
Behold the power of plant life.  Reducing stress and carbon dioxide, enhancing productivity and just a damn sweet sight for the eyes.  Plants are also great if you have little access to the outdoors.  Blooms are gorgeous too, but don't come cheap.  If you lack green fingers, why not fake it?  The stigma on fake greenery has faded - if they make you happy, use them.

7. Pendant Light
Here we mean a generous pendant that showcases a cathedral ceiling, one that creates an eye-popping wowness in your home.  They're especially useful in heavy traffic areas - entry, living and kitchen.

8. Trays
Hands down the most important style weapon.  The humble tray is a hold-all that pulls together your collections, so use them with reckless abandon across your entire home.  Watch proportions please, ensure your tray is 2/3 to 1/3 the size of the available spot.  And while we're on that, your coffee table should be 2/3 the size of your sofa.

9. Scent
There's nothing quite like that intense feeling of fragrance.  Candles are a welcoming signal to guests, or a cherished scent for Saturday nights in.  Honestly, fire them up and sniff them on the daily - they're a mood changer.

10. Cushions
Ugly cushions have NO place on your sofa.  Buy that coveted midnight blue velvet fabric and back the cushion with inexpensive linen.  Truly, custom made cushions are NOT as expensive as you might think.  Outsource and treat yourself.

11. Bookshelves
Leave a little room to breathe around your accessories, you don't have to fill every inch of the shelf.  Empty space helps to highlight your selected pieces, or be brave and wallpaper the back wall of your book case

12. Side table
Follow these easy hacks for a stylish side table.  Each shelf can hold different pieces but keep the colour palette the same.  Pile books on the bottom shelf and the smallest items the top.  To avoid looking awkward or messy, keep the colours similar.  Think of a pyramid shape as you style away.

Last Word:

There is no exact science for the right amount of doo daas, a lot comes down to personal choice.  Some people crave a simple, pared-back space, while others feel happy with abundance - an overflowing mass of decoration.  It really just depends where you sit on the spectrum; magpie or minimalist.

Think about how much emphasis you want?  Less accessories = less visual competition, which in turn creates an airy and open sense of space.  Emotion is another big factor.  How do you want to feel? More accessories might suggest clutter, but they exude a certain coziness when done right.

We hear you and so does The Hangman.  So much so he has built a business around helping us get the look just right.  Having engaged with him to do some work with our clients, we decided to pick his brains on what we should consider when getting ready to hang and what his top tips are.  

Q. How do you actually hang art - what tools//equipment/hardware do you need?

A.  For lightweight items (eg under 5kg), where conventional hooks & nails are required, the tools you need are : hammer, pencil, tape measure, spirit level. For the picture frame : d-rings (articulated ‘D’ shaped tabs that are screwed into the rear of the frame) or eyelets, hooks, nails.  For heavier items (eg over 5kg), appropriate expanding plugs will be required if installing into gib, so a drill is needed. 

Q. Should you only hang it on a nog or is straight into gib fine? (any suggestions around weight etc)

A. Under 5kg, as long as there are 2 hooks per picture (as there should always be - never hang from one hook alone) : nails should be fine. 

Q. How high above a piece of furniture such as a couch or a bed should you hang?

A. There is no ‘set rule’ here - as a guideline, position the midpoint of the picture at eye level. That said, a number of other factors can cause this guideline to be adjusted : stud height, presence of furniture. It’s basically “what looks right, is right” - try to achieve a balance so that the visible wall below the item, looks in proportion to the visible wall above the item. 

Q. When hanging a piece above furniture - do you centre it over the furniture or centre it on the wall?

A. In 90% of cases : over the furniture. 

Q. What's the starting point when you're hanging several or more pieces together (i.e. do you start with the biggest piece and work out from there - or should the largest piece be on the left or right?)

A. Choose the focal point (not necessarily the largest, although in in most cases it is due to sheer size) and build around that - it should be central. 

Q. Should all the frames be level at the top or the bottom  - or not at all?

A. It depends! The most common method is to align the vertical centres of all pictures - especially of there is significant variation in the heights of the various items. In more modern homes, and if the items are all of similar size, it’s possible to ‘bottom align’ the items (ie align their bottom edges). Top aligning is less usual. 

Q. What about when you're hanging a collage along a staircase wall - do you keep a straight line anywhere or do you follow the diagonal line of the stairs?

A. Follow the line of the stairs. 

Q. How do you create an interesting collage? Should you mix frame colours - photos with prints and oils etc? And of course - picture size - a wall of 15 pictures can look so boring if they're all the same size.  

A. My feeling, is that the most timeless & elegant collages are those created by combining black & white images, black frames (all of which are the same ‘profile’ (ie the shape/dimension of material that the frame itself is made of). It’s important to have a mixture of frame sizes (eg 4” x 6”, 5” x 7”, 6” x 8” etc) and choose some photographs in portrait orientation, and some in landscape orientation. This helps to create a more organic shaped collage, rather than one with rigid straight borders. 

Q. What about styles of art in different parts of your house - i.e. what looks good in a bedroom  - and what about art in the kitchen - what looks good here?

A. People typically want more restful styles in bedrooms - be that expressed through colour, subject matter, style. Living spaces are more accomodating - here you can have more bold and bright items, if that’s what you’re in to. In the kitchen : often people will choose items that in some way carry the food theme : often the subject matter itself could depict something related to food, or dining. Decorative plates are a good option in a kitchen, as they are easily cleaned of airborne particles that often exist around kitchens. 

Q. And what about scale - how small is too small and how big is too big?

A. Again, it’s basically “what looks right, is right” - try to achieve a balance so that the visible wall around the item : above, below, left & right. The larger the item, the more visible wall around it the item will require. As a general rule, ensure that you have at least 50% of the item’s width available on either side, before elements such as door frames, light-switches etc, are located. 

Thank you for your wisdom.

To learn more about The Hangman, check out his website and connect with him on social

We had the pleasure of spending time with Shelley Boyd from Boyd Blue, one of the largest Australian wholesale suppliers of artisan furniture and decor to the design industry.

Shelley is hands on involved in product design, manufacturing, retailing, supplying and sourcing internationally. 
We are so grateful she took the time to give us a peak into her world.

WHERE DID YOUR LOVE OF DESIGN BLOSSOM?
I had the privilege and advantage of being bought up in a highly creative family. They worked mostly in the rag trade, and their style and love of quality inspired me. Also, my Grandma was an enormous influence. We did a lot of hand crafts together and she gave me an appreciation of hand made products and paying attention to detail.

WHO IS YOUR DESIGN GURU?
I have enormous respect for Ralph Lauren and Armani.
They both have an ability to tell a story while staying true to their vision. They have a look that is definitive and people remember. At Boyd Blue, we also have a look that is becoming more recognisable.

IF THERE WAS ONE DESIGN BOOK WE SHOULD READ, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
That is impossible to answer! I feel like I have every design book ever published yet every time I travel, I manage to come home with more. Every year Andrew Martin, a British international interior designer brings out a new book and I have every one.

I would suggest the monthly magazines I use for reference. English and American Elle Decor, Architectural Digest and Belle. 

WHAT IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION IN YOUR HOME?
I bring back treasures every time I travel so my house is full of memories but I think the thing I prize most is an antique set of drawers that I bought at an auction house many years ago. I recently had it restored and I was worried that it would lose some of its patina and the richness of the wood. Thankfully it has retained and improved it, so it was worth it.

I love antiques. The feeling that they have been treasured and loved in someone's else's history, and now in mine, adds a dimension and peacefulness to a home. Also, the amazing quality of the craftsmanship means that they are not only beautiful but functional as well. I want to supply pieces that will be treasured, loved and kept in the family and never end up in landfill. Really, I love an eclectic mix of old and new, contemporary and classic.

WE LOVE HAVING YOU VISIT!
CAN YOU TELL US WHAT YOU LIKE ABOUT NZ DESIGN?
(NB: Shelley is a New Zealander who has been living in Australia for 28 years meaning she is OURS and this is a somewhat loaded question)

New Zealand designers have a good sense of style and are so clever. They are well travelled so they bring back the best of what's been used overseas and then improve it. It is such a unique light here – colours look so different and they use design and colour to embrace that, which is really inspirational.
So I guess I would define New Zealand designers as;
1) Inspirational
2) Fantastic colourists
3) Creative design leaders

My favourite would be the Fearon Hay Architects. I think they encompass what NZ design is about on every level.

WHAT OTHER COUNTRY DO YOU LIKE TO TRAVEL TO FOR DESIGN INSPIRATION?
I travel for 7 months of the year so I never feel like I stop.
I regularly go to Maison & Objet Paris in January and Highpoint Market in October which is a highlight.
Over the years, the true value to my business travel has come from working with our artisans in India, The Philippines and Indonesia. The passion they have for their work and attention to detail is truly inspirational. All our products are handmade and I love the personality that the pieces have because of that. I know the people who have made every piece and have enormous respect for them. We have photos of our artisans in our latest catalogue and it is a privilege to work with them.

In our furniture manufacturing business White Furniture Design, we also have an amazing team of artisans passionate about what they do.

We were recently profiled in an Australian paper as our artisans are aged between 60-75 years old. They are skilled perfectionists who craft beautiful pieces. I love that! But at the same time, it highlights an issue as we can't find young people who are interested in furniture making and it is becoming a lost art.

DO YOU THINK THERE IS A MAGIC FORMULA IN COMBINING THESE TWO WORLDS AND WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE ASPIRING YOUNG DESIGNERS?
Well, we never had the gift of children so I have channelled all my love and energy into Boyd Blue. I put my everything into it. My husband is an architect so it helps that we are both saturated in design and speak the same design language.
Boyd Blue has been the perfect for me as it allows me to use my business brain and my creative brain so it is incredibly rewarding.
I also live by the standard 'The more you put in to it, the more you get out'
So this business definitely lets me live by that.
I guess if there was a magic formula it’s foundations would be in the quality of the people you surround yourself with, and that has been my biggest success.
I love my staff, they are amazing, I don't micro manage them because I totally trust them and know they will get the job done. 
I enjoy them, so I enjoy my work, so I enjoy my life.... I guess that would be the magic formula.

YOU SEEM TO HAVE A COMMITMENT TO PROVIDING THE HIGHEST QUALITY PRODUCT. IS THAT A CHALLENGE IN THIS LOW COST, HIGH VOLUME ENVIRONMENT? 
The pressure in having your name on a product is that you have to believe in it. To do that I have to watch the development of each product so I have absolute confidence in it. I think, because of my love of antiques, I want to ensure that our pieces will be handed down. I travel 7 months of the year to visit suppliers and artisans to ensure that quality. I love seeing the pride they have in our product and I definitely think it is what gives our work an edge. Also, because it is handmade, there is less wastage as they take care to use every piece of the natural resource.

I encourage our clients to take their time and choose the best quality they can afford. This discourages a throwaway society as they select pieces that will last a lifetime.

It is all very connected really.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECT TO DATE?
There have been too many great ones to pick but working on the refit of the Marriott Resort on the Gold Coast was really rewarding project. We provided beautiful handcrafted rugs and white outdoor furniture that looks totally amazing.

SHELLEY I'M ABOUT TO GIVE YOU THE LAST (3) WORDS SO...
DESCRIBE BOYD BLUE.
Sophisticated. Global. Timeless.

AND BECAUSE I'M CURIOUS...TELL ME YOUR FAVOURITE COLOUR?
Navy (of course!)

Shelley Boyd is the owner and Creative Director at Boyd Blue.

She was a Queensland Awards Finalist in the Telstra Business Women’s Awards in 2013 for the Business Owner Award and in 2015 for the Entrepreneur Award and her clients have decorated beautiful homes around the world.

You can find her at boydblue.com

If you are lucky enough to live in Auckland, you can see the Boyd Blue range at Designers Candy. Purveyors of gorgeous things who generously let us use their studio to meet with Shelley. 

A warm Thank You to you both.  It was a lovely morning surrounded by beautiful things and beautiful people.

We were delighted to be featured on their blog, see our  Q + A here.

Can you tell us a little bit about Stylemaker?

We are an interior design studio based in Auckland, New Zealand.

We have a deep love of the unique environment we live in, being situated on small islands surrounded by both the Pacific and Indian Ocean. These are islands lush with forests, beaches and mountain ranges so we are spoilt for choice.
We see our job as taking those elements and celebrating them by working with clients, not only to express their style but their way of living in this space. We enjoy collaborating on ideas, expanding them and making them materialise.
Our team is made up of a designer, an architecture student, a writer and tech guru, plus our trusty tradesmen who like to keep us grounded.

If you had to describe Stylemaker in 3 words what would they be?

Can't do it sorry. Can I have 5 words?
Sensual. Timeless. Playful. Beautiful. Sustainable. 

Where do you draw inspiration from for your projects?

There are no surprises here, our landscape. 
I was born and raised in the beautiful Hawkes Bay so using space, light, colour and natural materials is in my blood. 
It was a childhood filled with "Havelock North Green" in the rolling hills, Lapus Blue of the ocean, the straight lines of vineyards and I often see them reflected in my work.
Not to mention I come from a family of creatives who I find hugely inspirational, photographers, landscapers and architects. 
I also have a soft spot for things that have been touched by hand giving you a link to the maker. The more history the piece has, the stronger my connection to it.
I find this country nourishing on so many levels so it is great to connect with other like minds, both here and overseas who seek to express that love of nature and craftsmanship in their homes.

How would you describe New Zealand's art and design culture.

New Zealanders are adventurous by nature and love to travel, me included.
I think, in the past, we have got used to bringing the best from overseas home and tweaking it.
That's changed. 
Now I think we recognise we have the best in creatives and natural resources right here in New Zealand and we are celebrating it, in food, music, wine, art, architecture and design. 
We are the New World. Beautiful. Bespoke. Sustainable.
It is a very exciting environment.
It is our ability to be sunkissed and covered in sand in the morning then wrapped in merino in the afternoon that makes design in this country so invigorating and unique because we can find the best sand and merino in the world right here in our own backyard.

Who is your favourite designer and why?

There are so many to choose from but I think will select an favourite architect, Sumich Chaplin Architects, for their ability to see landscape, architecture, interiors and art as one harmonious environment.
They have an ability to carve out a space that instills a sense of volume and proportion while showing the deepest respect for the landscape they sit in.
I love their sensual design and emphasis on textured natural materials.
There is definitely a sense of grandeur there but also a sense of gathering which I really appreciate.
 

What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

From my Mum,

"Always be brave”

And finally, do you have any advice for aspiring New Zealand creatives?

Listen to my Mum, really do...brave people have the best adventures

Every Interior designer has a tool box full of ideas and solutions to help bring your home ideas to life.  These tools change when working with small spaces as we look to create illusions and clever tricks to fool the eye. For now, we are going to draw back the curtain and inspire you with our toolbox full of ideas to make your small space 'You Ready’ in other words, beautiful.

Be Emotionally Stable.

When starting any project you want to be sure you are jumping off a stable design platform.  If you try and make the room too many things, to too many people, chaos will reign. Being 'disturbingly eclectic' is to be avoided here. Emotionally intelligent interiors often resonate because their simplicity reflects nature.  So this room needs to communicate your emotions clearly for your aspirations to happen.

To begin, ask these 2 questions.
1) What do I functionally need to do in this room?
2) How do I want to feel while doing it?

For example, your bedroom is for sleeping and reading, so you want to feel relaxed, soothed, cocooned, welcomed. At the same time, you will want to get up (maybe) and get ready, so you will also want to feel refreshed, crisp, and downright glamorous.  These aspirations for the room will form the base of your overall design.

So, how do you want to feel?
Sophisticated. Edgy. Relaxed. Powerful. Capable. Cheerful. Inspired. Sensual. Elegant.
Take your time for this is a important step in making your small space a pleasure to live in.

Colour Ways

One of the best ways of expressing emotion in a small space is by using colour. Research abounds on the relationship between colour and emotion but as a basic example, consider how you feel happy when you see the sun, and cautious when it is dark. That is because the way our environment looks evokes an emotional reaction from us.

So decide how much emotion you need in the room.

For the Classicists among us. Go Light.
Light colours will make your room look bigger because they reflect more light. The closer it is to white, the more light it will reflect and the bigger the room will look.

For the Disruptors among us. Go Dark.
Dark colours work magic in a room because they blur the lines from where one wall ends, and another begins, making it hard for the eye to know how big the room really is.

Get Horizontal

For achieving a more spacious feel in your room, horizontal lines will be your best friend as they highlight the distance between the walls.
Pursue this friendship with a passion and let nothing escape you.
Horizontal flooring
Horizontal panelling and moulding
Horizontal art and accessories
Horizontal patterns in your fabric choices.
Horizontal pets.

Hoarders Beware

Sorry, but you knew this was coming.
Grandmas tennis racket has to go...unless she was seeded, blond and Slavic.
The more things you have in a room, the smaller it will look.
So the fewer the knickknacks and pieces of furniture in the room, the better.
That does not include mirrors; you can have lots of those. The reflective quality fools the eye into thinking there is more space beyond. Which can't be said for those among us who keep looking in them. Select a few statement pieces, and don't be afraid of large furniture, just make sure it is long and low, and placed against the narrowest wall.

The Right Touch

Visual texture is when something looks like it would feel to touch.
Rough. Smooth. Shiny. Matte. Soft. Bumpy.
Although it is the last thing we notice, it will add depth and subtlety to your room.
The more noticeable the texture, the smaller the room will feel so take care and choose wisely. 
A whisperer is better than a screamer in a small space.

Storage Rules

We will inspire your storage woes with a little 17th Century Genius...

'A place for everything and everything in its place'

We couldn't have said it better ourselves.
So our suggestions are:

• Only store what you need. Refer Hoarders Beware.
• Have a home for each item. Select and measure your 'must have' items. Remember to include the items in plain sight and the items hidden from view. Small spaces take no prisoners.
• Make the items home easy to use. And we mean easy. 

A teenagers argument for the 'floordrobe' is a strong one.
Now shop to that list. The storage solution world is a big one so go knock yourself out on beautiful shelves, drawers and designer hooks.

Stay a While

In this day and age we can get caught up in first impressions, but in a small room, you need to think about your extended stay vantage points. When planning your small room try and keep these things in mind: Traffic flow, access space, utility locations, and ways to encourage conversation flow. But most importantly, think about your lines of sight because if someone dares take their eyes off you, you want to be sure they are looking in a fabulous mirror.

This is a coffee table treasure because it delivers on so many fronts, 

Beautiful. Informative. Funny.

Think of this book as a little bit of Ellen on paper.

She takes you on a journey of the homes she has lived in and loved. 

All the while introducing you to the artists and leaders in design who have inspired her.

"Books will warm up a room" Ellen DeGeneres

It's an easy, stimulating read because she doesn't get stuck on formulas.

Each home has its own character, be it mid-century modern, villa or farmhouse.

Her gift is her ability to honour the buildings heritage while still making it her home. 

Look out for our favourite 'Crusty Modernism'.

No, We didn't know what it was either. Stay with us

It is defined as the right amount of patina set up against the right amount of negative space. In other words, having pieces that have lived a little in a minimalist home. 

It is an exotic mix.

"What I like is rough hewn textiles, heavy well loved tables and anything that harkens back to nature. Stuff to counter the slickness."  Ellen DeGeneres

Filled with photos, tips and information to inspire you, Ellen is keen to make your home as beautiful as hers is, possibly after you win Lotto but not to be ignored as she has ideas galore whatever your budget.

We love her, so we are nearly going to give her the last word.

"Don't hire an interior designer if you don't want to collaborate. Generally they are not a mute bunch"

Hmm...Harsh but fair.

We know you will enjoy it as much as we do.

Grab your very own copy today:
$62.95 from www.whitcoulls.co.nz to save the planet or $37.26 from www.bookdepositry.comto save your purse.

The joy of open plan living is that it gives you the ability to define your life with style and simplicity.

We all love a little light and space in our lives and Open Plan living can deliver just that. The down side is that you can be left with wide, impersonal areas that for all that space, feel cluttered and untidy.

Follow our 'Magic of Three in Open Plan Living' to keep your space clear and uncluttered, while at the same time reflecting your personality and the way you want to live.

THREE STUNNING MATERIALS |

Choose 3 materials that inspire you. For example....glass, wood, and velvet. Use subtle hints of each of these in your designated spaces to add depth and luxury to the area, while giving the overall area a sense of unity. Remember to work with materials from an area that may be permanent, or expensive - like the kitchen, as your guide as these are unlikely to change regularly.

THREE ILLUMINATING LIGHTS |

An interesting room has shadows and angles and to help create these, your room should have a combination of 3 lighting solutions. The pendant. The table lamp. The down light. These will help you designate spaces, while at the same time being functional and beautiful. Choose like-minded light fixtures that mirror a material, a colour or a finish that has been used elsewhere in the room. And remember they are like the bridesmaid to the main attraction. Important but not competition.

THREE OBJECTS OF DESIRE (OOD) |

Choose three exceptional pieces that define your style and use them to define your spaces. Such as a beautiful placed console, armchair or dining table to make a space functional, elegant and uniquely you. This OOD is all about quality, so take the time to source the piece you want, save and be prepared to wait if it is not in the budget.

THREE STORAGE OPTIONS |

The modern life is filled with so many daily items, so before you start designing, make a list of the things that are most important to you and your family. Include all the items that you need for your space to be liveable. What do you, your family and even your dog need to be comfortable?

Once you know exactly what you need to include, finding solutions that are beautiful and functional will be the priority for your project. These can be beautifully visual like built in shelves that help you move seamlessly from work spaces (kitchen) to relax spaces (lounge), consoles that are functional for storage and display but also hide the tail end of sofas, or integrated moveable wall panels that keep the dreaded visual clutter at bay.

THREE 'POPS' OF THE ONE |

We all have a colour that calms, inspires and rejuvenates us and we like to think of it as a personal 'Pop' colour. If you take the time to find that colour, every time you walk into the room you will be rewarded. Like most people, you will have many colours you love but fear not as you will be able to express those in other rooms around the house.

For successful open plan living, you must focus on The One to be celebrated in this room. Sometimes you know the colour immediately, at other times you will be inspired by a piece of fabric, wallpaper or favourite artwork or family heirloom you know is to be displayed. It is part of design gospel that using white on walls and ceilings will make the space feel open and cohesive so finding your pop colour is a perfect way to individualise your room without forfeiting the advantages given by Magnificent White.

Remember to take note of what is going on outside the room. If your neighbour has a bright red feature wall gleaming down on you, this could impact your choice until the hedge grows. Don't be scared of it, but definitely consider what it means to the success of the colour you are considering.

The beauty of the pop colour is that it can change with your moods. Once you have committed to a colour, plan to use it with three different accessories, for example, cushions, light shade and vase across your designated areas.  The pop colour, materials, lighting, objects of desire and clever storage solutions will draw the eye and give an impression of order, calm and continuity.

Something all open plan living should strive for and that The Magic of Three will help to deliver.

LANDSCAPE CONNECTIONS |

We all have a connection to the natural landscape. Bring the beauty of nature indoors by surrounding yourself in the colours of Lapis Blue and Kale Green for your paint and homeware selections. Look for patterns and fabrics that evoke an emotion inside you and that saturate you with the warmth of Summer. 

BE CURIOUS FOR COLLECTABLES |

Adventure with your loved ones to a childhood beach and collect treasures along the way. Be it found in a hidden curio shop with quality vintage pieces, or simply a shell found on the beach. Once home, it is the adventure and the story that will make those treasures come alive. 

CORRAL BEAUTY |

Have a tray display of books, candles, and treasures found, in easy reach of the sofa where you love to lounge, embrace the perfectly imperfect.
In this amazing age we live in, finding precision machine made pieces is easy. So this Summer, why not take the time to search out treasures for your home that are touched by humans. 
Gather organic shapes, textures and materials around you. Knowing an artist has created them adds an extra depth and meaning that will nourish you and make for a good story. 

EAT FRESH AND DELICIOUS |

Collect colourful vessels to serve your food in ways that are unique and effortless. Salads. Fruit and most importantly, Ice- cream, will add style to your table landscape if they are thoughtfully displayed. 

THE COOL OF GLASS |

Beautiful glass objects will inspire reflection, light and a sense of cool into your home. Add wood or rattan furniture as a natural backdrop and you will have the perfect room to relax in, nature’s sculptures. We love seeing a cool white contemporary base for outdoor living, layered with sculptural green plantings that make a statement. 

Spending time devouring Designers Guild fabric is like spending an hour in heaven.

'Goddess' Tricia started her career designing interiors but, as is often the way with creatives, she became frustrated when she couldn't find the fabrics that communicated her imagination - so she made her own.

'Goddes' Tricia

Source: Designers Guild

40 years on, and frustration swept aside, she now works with the best artists and fabric designers in the world to ensure the glorious fabrics in her head are available to all. 

How does she know what we want? Well, over years she has worked with Design Council. They are to design what the UN is to peace. Every 7 years Design Council decide on the direction design is heading. In fashion. In interiors. In technology. In life. 

And the world sits up and listens. Tricia listens too. She takes the language of design then translates it for us. With a little Tricia twist.

For the curious thing about Designers Guild fabric is that, not only will you want to look at it, but you will want to lick it, promise we resisted, this time.

Her latest collection is no exception. It is truly a treasure chest of jewel colours, luscious textures, and combinations that defy logic in their perfection.

A little bit like nature.

But there is more. A tweak in direction that surprised and delighted us. 

Source: Designers Guild

Tricia is well known for her love of flowers. Bold, bright, brilliant.

This season her designs have found strength in their femininity,  as she has given the flowers a rendered look, with the whole range having a beautifully illustrative feel.

Like us, you will be transported into a secret garden.

What a perfect way to welcome Spring.

Bring these fabrics into your home and it won't be about where to sit, but more about an opportunity to taste the light and feel the joy.

Interactive Homes. We love them, almost as much as we love 'Goddess' Tricia. 

A flower full of beauty.