Ararimu Project
Set amongst rolling green hills and well-kept gardens, this architecturally designed home already had a strong presence. Our role was to update it for modern living while respecting its original character. The owners have an eclectic, well-travelled style and a genuine love for mixing old and new, which gave us a great foundation to work from.
We focused on getting the basics right first, timeless finishes in the bathrooms, flooring, and lighting, so the home would feel grounded and long-lasting. From there, we layered in the clients’ art, furniture, and collected pieces, letting their personality lead the way. The entrance is warm and welcoming and gives an immediate sense of who lives here.
The main living spaces were designed to feel easy and comfortable. The lounge has a more elegant, relaxed feel, while the open-plan areas rely on soft neutrals, texture, and greenery to keep things calm and lived-in. The media room became a place to showcase the owners’ interests in history, art, and travel, and the home office was designed to connect closely with the outdoors.
The master bedroom came with a few challenges due to its low ceiling and smaller size. To work around this, we used a bold wallpaper to create height and interest, supported by layered lighting, including a Moooi chandelier and wall sconces. Sheer curtains, mirrors, and soft finishes helped balance the space. Guest bedrooms were kept simple in terms of furniture, with character added through artwork, textiles, and plants. The ensuites continue the same material story, using marble, timber, and modern fittings, with one space kept softer and the other slightly more masculine. A highly eclectic teenager’s bedroom, full of mirrors and personality, finishes off the home.
We focused on getting the basics right first, timeless finishes in the bathrooms, flooring, and lighting, so the home would feel grounded and long-lasting. From there, we layered in the clients’ art, furniture, and collected pieces, letting their personality lead the way. The entrance is warm and welcoming and gives an immediate sense of who lives here.
The main living spaces were designed to feel easy and comfortable. The lounge has a more elegant, relaxed feel, while the open-plan areas rely on soft neutrals, texture, and greenery to keep things calm and lived-in. The media room became a place to showcase the owners’ interests in history, art, and travel, and the home office was designed to connect closely with the outdoors.
The master bedroom came with a few challenges due to its low ceiling and smaller size. To work around this, we used a bold wallpaper to create height and interest, supported by layered lighting, including a Moooi chandelier and wall sconces. Sheer curtains, mirrors, and soft finishes helped balance the space. Guest bedrooms were kept simple in terms of furniture, with character added through artwork, textiles, and plants. The ensuites continue the same material story, using marble, timber, and modern fittings, with one space kept softer and the other slightly more masculine. A highly eclectic teenager’s bedroom, full of mirrors and personality, finishes off the home.
Project Year: 2021
Project Cost: NZD 150,001 - NZD 200,000
Country: New Zealand