When tasked with creating an urban oasis on a small, square block of land in a densely populated area, Madeleine Blanchfield Architects decided to think outside the box. In fact, the talented team did away with the idea of a box altogether, creating a clever, architectural marvel that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces with a constant flow. Nine Square Bondi is a house that connects with its street and community while maintaining privacy, and not compromising on the clients’ desire for a home that reflected their artistic sensibilities and worked for a growing family.
Featuring the 9000 sofa by Tito Agnoli for Arflex from Studio Italia, Matéria side table by Christian Haas for ClassiCon from Matisse
The main goal of the project was to achieve a seamless flow, creating a space where the terrace, when its sliding doors were open, would feel so connected to the living and kitchen areas that it all felt like one expansive room. By incorporating windows and doors that slid into pockets, the main living space exudes the breezy vibe of an open balcony, blurring the lines between interior and exterior in a way that feels very fitting for the beachside area. Here, there is a sense of space, freedom and connection with nature that sets this residence apart, where the team at Madeleine Blanchfield Architects has engaged in some spatial wizardry, mitigating the small size of the site with a considered architectural approach.
Inside the house, the understated but impactful kitchen is anchored by a large, geometric slab of marble with a rich, moody patina and pixel-like cutouts. The unique tile splashback, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes, evolves into a statement piece of functional art, adding a touch of all-important personality to the space.
Right image: features the 9000 sofa by Tito Agnoli for Arflex from Studio Italia, Stasis floor lamp by Studiojos & Haller Storage sideboard by USM from ECC
When it came time to dress the interior, the client’s personal art and furnishings collection — a subtly quirky and eclectic affair — was the inspiration, resulting in a mix of showstopping and subtle pieces that marry versatility with contemporary luxury. In the living room, a sleek USM Haller file credenza makes a stylish and practical storage solution, while in the centre of the space, a pair of matching, curvaceous Arflex 9000 sofas promise to adapt to any mood or intention. This colourful and playful collection of art, furniture and heirlooms creates a unique, connected and engaging atmosphere.
Just as the boundaries between inside and outside blur, so too do the lines between definitive, aesthetic markers, where the transparency of the design feels deeply connected to the open and breezy spirit of Bondi, but the heavy concrete base draws inspiration from Brazilian Brutalist structures, housing the bedrooms and a single garage. The lighter, sprawling architecture on the top floor offers hints of Los Angeles and diminishes the bulk of the dwelling, adding an intriguing semi-private layer, which serves as a light and laid-back haven. From Bondi to South America, Asia to LA, this is a home that aptly reflects the globe-trotting lives of its inhabitants (who had recently relocated from Hong Kong).
Unsurprisingly, Nine Square Bondi has garnered international recognition and acclaim, and was shortlisted for this year’s Australian Interior Design Awards. After all, from its transformable layout to its quirky but undeniably appealing interior finishes and the ways in which it nestles seamlessly into its surroundings, this residence puts a wholly unique spin on the idea of an urban, beachside, family dwelling.
While there are always birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and a number of milestones to celebrate with cake, freedom is the realisation that there actually doesn’t have to be any celebration on the horizon to indulge in a slice of cake. That said, Auckland is blessed with a v variety of cakeries and clever pastry chefs who are offering the kinds of cakes we would order with or without an excuse. Whether you have an occasion to mark or not, these are the best cakes in Auckland.
Inspired by the sweet treats created for him by his gran and aunt, Park Hyatt Auckland’s Executive Pastry Chef, Callum Liddicoat has dreamt up a way to bring The Pantry’s famous afternoon tea directly to your doorstep. Perfect for any occasion, The Pantry’s cake range includes two-layer celebrations cakes decadently filled to the brim with ganache or buttercream as well as fuss-free staple cakes in a delicious range of flavours such as honey burnt butter and thyme, and sticky date and banana.
Looking as though they’ve leapt straight out of our parent’s 1970s wedding album, Zi’s ornate retro-inspired masterpieces have quickly become the must-have cake for each and every special occasion. Available in a variety of insanely delicious flavours including chocolate salted caramel and matcha strawberry, Zi’s spots are snapped up quickly so we recommend ordering well in advance to avoid missing out.
Dali McDonald is a cake maestro — a fact that anyone who has tried a slice made by him will attest to. Having grown up with a chef for a mum and after cutting his teeth working in some renowned kitchens, McDonald has spent the last couple of years honing his own culinary voice via his Instagram, Fundraiser, where what started as a more casual offering has grown into a bona fide business. Now, Fundraiser has its own, comprehensive cake menu outlining a number of delectable options, depending on what you need. From beautifully-layered Russian Honey cake to Salted Caramel Toffee cake to a simple but elevated Citrus Marscapone cake, every option by McDonald is a taste revelation.
If it’s a satiating and beautifully-decorated cake that you seek, look no further than Mint Cakery. Skilfully made by Michelle Morfett, who offers a number of crowd-pleasing flavours such as blackberry blondie and dark chocolate pear and salted caramel, it’s easy to see why these cakes are some of the best in Auckland.
Jordan Rondel’s The Caker, has become something of an Auckland icon, which means that it was all the more heartbreaking to hear of the imminent closure of its K’ Road bakery — the spot where Rondel launched her now-global brand and the place on which most of us have relied for every birthday, graduation and milestone celebration. “It’s heartbreaking to say this part of The Caker journey is coming to an end,” Rondel said on her Instagram, “but change opens doors to innovation and fresh possibilities, and I am confident that with more space in my brain, my future endeavours will bring even more value to you, my amazing Caker community.” Despite the fact that the popular The Caker kits will still be available for us to buy from the supermarket, the celebration cakes won’t be from Sunday the 3rd of September. So, we advise getting your final orders in over the next couple of weeks (Rondel says she will be releasing a raft of final flavours and iconic, end-of-era cakes) to ensure that The Caker goes out with a bang.
Amano’s bakery is a favourite amongst Auckland locals and visitors alike. And while the freshly-baked bread, doughnuts and sandwiches here have become go-to staples for anyone seeking something delicious in Britomart, it’s Amano’s decadent cakes that we have come to rely on for all our celebrations. Available to order online, flavours range from lemon meringue and classic carrot to basque cheesecake and Valhrona double chocolate.
Now operating out of her latest endeavour, Burnt Butter Diner, pastry chef Claudia Long’s exceptional cake service Sweet Cheeks produces some of the tastiest cakes and some of the most sought-after cakes in town. (Case in point, her orders are already booked out until October 2023.) No wonder, really, with flavours like burnt butter and dulce de leche, passionfruit and miso, salted dark chocolate, hazelnut with sour plum and so many more.
Not only a humming café, Catroux is also renowned for its event catering — and cakes. Whether you’re a fan of citrus flavours or decadent banana and caramel; classic carrot, chocolate or red velvet, Catroux’s cakes are special without being over the top and are available in a variety of crowd-pleasing sizes.
While your intention to recreate a Woman’s Weekly masterpiece is admirable, why not leave it up to these experts? Noughts and Crosses fanciful designs are bound to capture the imaginations of both big and little birthday people.
If you or someone you are celebrating (or hosting, for that matter), is vegan look no further than Little Bird’s selection of indulgent and entirely plant-based cakes for your next occasion. Offering flavours like tiramisu and chocolate cheesecake, these mouthwatering desserts are creamy and decadent while also feeling like a slightly less sinful iteration of their conventional counterparts and are certainly delicious enough to keep everyone at the party happy (vegan or not).
Known for their crafty and hyper-realistic cakes (fried chicken bucket, anyone?), K Cake is an essential contact to have for any themed party or other apt celebration. Cakes here are sweet and sumptuous, as they should be, coming in more than 10 different flavours. Chocolate raspberry is a reliable favourite — but there’s something so addictive about the lemon elderflower flavour too.
Specialising in the kind of cute and decidedly pink cakes from the days of yore, From Sugar’s sweet treats are certainly some of the most delicious. We love their ‘lunch box’ size cakes too, which supposedly serve 2-4 — they’re just perfect for those more intimate affairs.
Admittedly the early days of August got away from us — life has that all-too-familiar ‘time is flying’ feeling right now. But alongside the cultural comforts we can enjoy at home, there’s a surprisingly impressive cultural agenda that’s kept us inspired in the days of late. If you’re like us, with little time to spare, our August Culture guide has all the essential shows, events and more you have to book in this month.
The latest performance from the Royal New Zealand Ballet endeavours to celebrate the company’s rich cultural tapestry inspired by haka and the strength of the men of the RNZB; a striking and lasting addition to the RNZB’s repertoire, presenting the esteemed dancers in a new light. With three performances over the weekend and limited tickets remaining, we’d suggest rallying your most discerning friends and booking your tickets without haste. Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre, Thursday the 10th until Saturday the 12th of August, various times
Auckland Theatre Company will tomorrow launch into their next season of the year’s programme, a fantastic show adapted from Dr David Galler’s best-selling memoir of the same name that throws grand questions about our nation’s (undeniably broken) healthcare system into the ether. Through the tremendous talents of some of New Zealand’s greatest actors, Things That Matter becomes a tender and articulate account of the compassion and change needed in New Zealand’s health system. Tickets are now on sale for the two-week run. ASB Waterfront Theatre, Saturday the 12th until Sunday the 27th of August, various times
Most never anticipated New Zealand would become well and truly caught up in football fever, but in part, it speaks to the human appeal of the excitement of live sports. Since winning the opening match (despite not qualifying for further rounds), New Zealand has cemented itself in the wider football vernacular. While the final games of the FIFA Women’s World Cup will be held in Australia, the Fan Festival Zone that has taken over The Cloud will host free daily performances from the likes of Ladi6, a delicious food offering, and live football matches on the big screen. We’re predicting this will be the best spot to watch the final. Get in quick to get a good seat. The Cloud, open at various times and days
Left: Dai Henwood — The Comedy Treatment Right: J.I.D
This month the Grammy-nominated Atlanta rapper, J.I.D will perform to his devoted New Zealand audiences for the first time as part of The Forever And A Day world tour he is currently in the middle of. Those unfamiliar with his name would likely know his sound, a beloved collaborator of 21 Savage, Offset, and even Imagine Dragons. He’s undeniably part of the new guard of rising hip-hop artists, and this month presents your chance to see him before he well and truly blows up. Shed 10, Wednesday the 23rd of August, 7pm
Lauded New Zealand comedian Dai Henwood has been candid and vulnerable about his current struggle with cancer, a diagnosis he hid for almost two years. Now, he hopes to draw much-needed attention to the illness in the hope of fundraising to fund better treatment and support for those undergoing a similar diagnosis. In The Comedy Treatment, Henwood will take to Q Theatre’s stage for one night alongside Mel Bracewell, Josh Thomson, Ben Hurley and Justine Smith for “the funniest cancer fundraiser” we’ve ever seen. The last remaining tickets are still available, and the televised show will give viewers at home the opportunity to donate to the Cancer Society too. Q Theatre, Thursday the 24th of August, 8pm
Auckland continues its reputation of four seasons in one day, with this weekend’s forecast set to be anything but warm and sunny (it is early August, though, so maybe this should be expected). Most can agree that on days like these, there are few things we’d rather do than cosy up in our favourite restaurants, indulging in some of Auckland’s best soul-warming food. Between new offerings that are the talk of the town and always-reliable old favourites, these are the three winter-warmer dishes we suggest going out and eating this weekend.
At the heart of MoVida’s mouthwatering, Spanish menu (a delicious series of tapas-style dishes that pack a seriously flavoursome punch), sits the Pollo Agridulce. This dish is, by all definitions, a winter warmer, where organic chicken is wet-roasted with Andalucian agri sauce and baby peppers, lending it some welcome extra heat.
Hearty, full of flavour and cooked to creamy perfection, Andiamo’s butternut squash risotto is the kind of dish that will cure any winter woe. Served with truffled burrata and roast-pumpkin brown butter and known to be dubbed by those who order it as “the best risotto I’ve had in my life,” this exceptional dish is an absolute must-try. (And is even better when enjoyed in Andiamo’s cosy dining room, near its open fireplace.)
With a nod to the flavours of the season, the beef short rib from Inca’s Ponsonby outpost is a tender little morsel that simply begs to be shared. Here, quite intuitively, restauranteur Nic Watt has let the meat’s complex flavours carry the dish, with just a smear of yellow pepper miso glaze for spicy, umami heat and a handful of utterly moreish spiced roast cashew nuts to elevate the dish to delectable new heights.
Spread across 5,900 square-feet of penthouse space, high above the Manhattan skyline, sits the duplex home of a young family, elevated in more ways than one. Boasting a number of generous windows that offer views of the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks — from the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge to the Empire State Building — this apartment embraces its enviable locale while still offering a distinct aesthetic; more refined and more artistic than one might expect from a dwelling of this scale (and location).
There is a sensibility here that is decidedly Parisian, an idea the owners felt drawn to after celebrating their nuptials in the City of Light. Because, while the address itself is jaw-dropping (and undeniably exclusive) there has been impressive restraint shown by the team at Workshop/APD in the colour palette, the furnishings, the lighting and the accessories, where understated luxury and sumptuous textiles in neutral tones have been favoured over any kind of overt or attention-grabbing moments (often associated with New York penthouses at the higher end of the market). Of course, this was what the owners wanted, with the team at Workshop/APD explaining how the brief had to be in line with their clients’ minimalist palette and desire to create a home that was warm and luxurious, while still being suitable for life with young sons.
As a result, the idea of ‘balance’ has defined each space. Structure collides with curvature in the main living room, where a rounded wall melds into the ceiling and offers a wonderful counterbalance to the stoic lines of both the fireplace and the rectangular windows that frame the space, bathing it in natural light. Elsewhere, there is an impressive staircase that connects the lower level to the second-floor bedrooms, which was transformed by Workshop/APD from a simple, rectilinear structure to a sweeping pièce-de-résistance, complete with curved, white plaster balustrade and solid oak steps (a visually-arresting contrast).
“While the palette is undeniably monochromatic, the variety of textures and variances in tone (something the team at Workshop/APD called ‘fifty shades of beige’) deliver warmth and mitigate any chance that it could veer into ‘stark’ territory.”
Furniture and other decorative details have been used to achieve a similar effect, where rounded sofas and tables and abstract art pieces (which the clients curated alongside art consultant Barbara Cartategui) that play on geometric shapes deliver dimension, giving the overarching minimalism a more tactile and inviting feel. Because while the palette is undeniably monochromatic, the variety of textures and variances in tone (something the team at Workshop/APD called ‘fifty shades of beige’) deliver warmth and mitigate any chance that it could veer into ‘stark’ territory.
From gorgeous, light-timber herringbone floors to fabrics like cream bouclé to the circular motifs that recur on mirrors, art and furnishings (like the pair of Knoll’s Saarinen Womb chairs offering added comfort in the pristine master suite), the sense of austerity that plays into this penthouse’s refined appeal has been cleverly balanced with cosiness in every corner. After all, while this duplex might look like a gallery in many of its main spaces, it is still (at its heart) a family home.
In fact, if you look at the children’s bedrooms, rendered in monochromatic blues (perfect for encouraging play and imagination), and too, at the moody media room finished in shades of black, charcoal and taupe, it’s clear that the owners were not afraid to make bold choices — even if the rest of the home feels, at first glance, an exercise in warm neutrality.
Indeed, as far as New York apartments go, this one sits well above the rest (for its floor number, yes, but in many other ways too). Here, the ultimate New York lifestyle has been softened by a Parisian romanticism, creating an elevated urban sanctuary that is cool, calm and collected.
Long associated with royalty, emeralds and (other green gemstones) represent wit, eloquence and foresight, which makes wearing them far more than just an aesthetically-pleasing affair. In fact, adorning yourself with pieces of jewellery that showcase some kind of green gemstone (even better when paired with diamonds) will not only turn heads but will almost definitely lift your mood. It might even bring you good luck.
Here we round up our latest wish list of exquisite, green gemstone jewellery — each piece striking and sophisticated in equal measure.
Tāmaki Makaurau has no shortage of delectable Thai restaurants, ranging from old-school authentic to contemporary fusion, and we couldn’t be more thankful for the delicious conundrum that occurs when we have to choose between them. Although you may have an undying loyalty to your neighbourhood Thai joint, we’ve taken the liberty of rounding up the restaurants we rate for you to venture further afield and fire up your tastebuds. Without ado, consult our definitive guide to the best Thai restaurants in Auckland.
Ginger Located at the Upland Road end of Remuera Road, Ginger has cultivated quite the cult following. A sleek interior complements a menu that proudly delivers real, authentic Thai food in a contemporary manner. The greatest hits (stir-fries, soups, curries and salads) are made using hand-crafted sauces and pastes we can’t get enough of.
Khu Khu The original Ponsonby address is an intimate 20-seater restaurant that also happens to be entirely vegan, and as such, Khu Khu’s succinct menu celebrates the best of Thai cuisine, sans meat. Clever and concise, the menu is familiar yet exciting, offering new twists on old favourites (the ‘duck’ drunken noodles are non-negotiable). Vegan or not, this cosy Ponsonby spot will satisfy your Thai craving in a deliciously different way, with a second Milford location having opened earlier this winter.
Soho Kitchen.
Soho Kitchen Shore-side, Soho Kitchen has been top of our list for Thai since it opened in 2019. Located in the Goodside precinct at Smales Farm, Soho Kitchen champions classic Thai flavours with rave-worthy curries and king-prawn ladened pad Thai alongside enticing riffs like lemongrass snapper rolls and basil battered cauliflower. The cocktails are like no other in town — think pandan margarita, lemongrass mojito and Mekhong whiskey sour.
Nahm This delicious eatery has flown under the radar for far too long. Serving pared-back street eats from a menu designed to share (because of course), Nahm’s tasty offering has been created to always satisfy. If you’re feeling adventurous, might we suggest trying the kraprow thad — a dish that the chefs promise is totally authentic, and beloved by everyone.
@Bangkok Kingsland locals love @Bangkok, and it’s easy to see why. The humble neighbourhood joint is both a dine-in and takeaway favourite. We recommend the massaman curry with plenty of ‘ugly puffy roti’ for soaking up the rich coconut sauce. The housemade peanut satay is also addictive, so prepare to order extra.
Thai House.
Thai House It’s fair to say family-run Thai House has reached stalwart status on the Ponsonby strip, having dished up reliable Thai fare since 1993. The flavours are big and the staff are welcoming, plus it has the added allure of being BYO. Any one of the sizzling garlic dishes is sure to make a delicious impression, while the addition of wood ear mushrooms to the vegetarian pad Thai makes for a particularly delightful bite.
Thaiger Thaiger is the latest offering by Auckland favourite Wok Express, a restaurant so popular that some nights it’s had to turn customers away. Alongside beautiful, traditional Thai dishes (utilising recipes passed down to Co-Owner Pim Brandwood through generations), others encompass a modern, elevated take. The menu has been designed as a series of sharing plates — some of the stand-outs include the Gai Yang (BBQ chicken marinated for 48 hours) and the Mair Yai Papaya Salad (a recipe from Pim’s mother, whose portrait hangs on the restaurant’s walls).
Sunflower Thai Vegan Restaurant Not only is this inner-city haunt home to some of the City’s most highly-rated Thai, it serves up (unnoticeably) delicious vegan food too — a delight seeing as Thai cuisine traditionally features fish sauce and shrimp paste. At Sunflower, flavour isn’t compromised either, the joint famously beloved for serving up some of the most sought-after ‘prawn’ fried rice in town.
Mama Do
Mama Do Famously recently taking over the corner spot where GoGo Daddy Thai Canteen once stood, Ponsonby Central’s new Thai eatery, Mama Do, offers a more authentic experience of the cuisine. While still serving a delicious sense of fun and whimsy, the menu here leans into familial recipes inspired by owner Nolina’s mother’s cooking. As such, it’s quite quickly become one of our favourite places in this dining precinct.
Soul Thai Despite the more sophisticated offerings found around town, we can’t ever look past Soul Thai. Always reliable and efficient, these hole-in-the-wall restaurants (found in Mount Eden, Grey Lynn and Royal Oak) offer some of the best Thai in town. Everything on the menu is delicious — but for the ultimate in comfort and indulgence, we recommend requesting your pad thai extra-saucy, with a side of roti to mop it all up.
Po’ Brothers Come for the atmosphere, stay for the food. Po’ Brothers is perfectly formulated to facilitate an excellent night out, with its prime position on Ponsonby Road, BYO offering and ability to cater for larger groups or smaller gatherings. Be as adventurous (there’s a Thai-level hot section) or predictable (the pad Thai and char kuey teow are as delicious as they come) as you please.
Aroy Express
Aroy Express When you need your Thai fix stat, scurry on over to Aroy Express in Commercial Bay. The refined takeaway menu, which is thoughtfully dished up in compostable containers, spans selected entrees like roti and curry puffs, through to curries and soups, chicken and cashew nuts, black pepper beef and vegetarian red curry. The Aroy empire stretches from Wellington to Auckland (with a bigger, larger restaurant in Mount Wellington too), so it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about serving up a good Thai feed.
Thai Village Remuera Having re-opened earlier this year after a famously long renovation that saw the restaurant’s most loyal customers still getting their daily fix through a pop-up takeaway window, Remuera’s most iconic Thai Village is now offering a decidedly elevated take on their most authentic cuisine. Now, the venue is adopting some new traditions, like bottomless brunches in the weekends which leans into the expert touch of the bar, and an extensive menu that caters to vegan, gluten-free, and other essential dietarys. Having sampled more than our fair share over the years, we think the tender grilled lamb rack with Chef Savang’s special sauce, the Mook Fish with its crumbed market fish, Thai herbs, orange and lemon dressing, and the Red Duck Curry are all must-order dishes.
The Taste Touted among locals as the best Thai over the bridge, Devonport’s The Taste prides itself on tasty takeaways, when you need them most (although on popular nights, you might have to be prepared to wait). The chefs here have nailed the perfect balance of sour, savoury and sweet for sumptuous Thai classics that literally melt in your mouth.
Kiss Kiss.
Kiss Kiss You can’t miss Kiss Kiss — the Balmoral eatery is bathed in neon light that lures in hungry punters like moths to a flame. The menu covers the likes of buns (filled with pork belly, lemongrass fried chicken or tofu), sharing plates such as som tum salad and whole deep-fried snapper, noodles and rice dishes, so best gather a group and sample a little bit of everything. Be sure to leave room for dessert — the mango and sticky rice are a must.
Blue Elephant Thai Parnell This Parnell institution is proof that you can’t beat an old classic. Consistently recognised as one of Aucklanders’ most-loved Thai restaurants, Blue Elephant offers traditional dishes in a humble and cute atmosphere, where homage is payed to the beloved, peaceful national animal. Known for their generous servings, reliable offering and the chef’s special Blue Elephant Crispy Pork. Requesting your dishes ‘Thai Hot’ also alleviates the need for any extra spice requests.
White + Wong’s While not strictly a Thai-centric eatery, White + Wong’s has built its reputation around doing Asian fusion fare well, and its Thai-inspired dishes are no exception. From tender Thai beef salad to fragrant tom yum soup, tantalising green papaya salad and moreish pad Thai, White + Wong’s covers all your bases for a family-friendly meal with harbour views at its Viaduct location to boot.
There is no simpler way to make a fashion statement than with an eye-catching bag on your arm. Choosing the perfect handbag can, after all, be the definitive factor between a good outfit and a great one.
Now, the handbags we’re coveting are those that boast interesting shapes. From trapezoidal twists to chic curves, the bags to buy this season are cutting shapes in a subtle but utterly striking way. These are our favourites.
A great hair day doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by appointment. One ritual that never fails to elevate our mood is the regularly scheduled visit to our favourite hair salon for a cut, colour and catch-up (or some solitude, if that’s what you desire). Auckland knows no shortage of brilliant salons, each beloved by a loyal following of devoted clientele, who return time and time again to elevate their appeal. From the new guard operators to the stalwarts who have stood the test of time, the salons that follow are our very best.
Colleen
Colleen, Karangahape Road With its recognisable window of greenery, Colleen invites its many loyal clients to sit back and relax — even among the urban buzz of Karangahape Road. Founded by top New Zealand hairstylist Lauren Gunn, the salon may have a casual, carefree vibe — but it’s backed up with a truckload of skill and attention to detail from each of the talented stylists. The overall philosophy centres on helping clients achieve their hair goals while keeping each head of tresses in tip-top condition, and Colleen’s team are an inspiring bunch, often involved in editorial fashion projects, which gives them a well-rounded viewpoint and skillset.
Commune, Grey Lynn From Grey Lynn’s The Scrapyard, the perennially-cool Commune is known for facilitating a seriously good chop. Director Leigh Keepa is a master at his craft, cutting curls in a non-prescriptive manner to emphasise natural body, without attempting to fit into the latest trends or moulds. A true saviour for our ringlets indeed. We’re also incredibly enamoured with the salon’s dispensary, a refillery concept that seeks to reduce the environmental impact of beauty products while still recognising salon quality superiority.
Left: ANCO Studio Right: Stephen Marr
Stephen Marr, Newmarket Having built up something of an embassy, with its fresh and uncontrived approach to hair and beauty, Stephen Marr is undeniably one of Auckland’s greats. Thanks to its popular salon in Newmarket, the stylists here have been recognised as industry favourites by designers, directors, photographers, and of course, the salon’s most loyal clientele.
ANCO Studio, Viaduct Harbour From it’s extremely picturesque Viaduct Harbour vantage point, ANCO Studio’s devoted clients will attest that this salon’s stylists do hair best. If you manage to find a spot on his books, salon director Adrian Deng has earned himself the title of one of the City’s best blonde colourists, having mastered hair transformations that feel more like wizardry than simple human touch.
Left: Ryder Right: D&M Hair Design
D&M Hair Design, Ponsonby Multi-award winning salon D&M Hair Design was founded by Danny Pato and Michael Sisaengrath 15 years ago and remains beloved and respected today for its high calibre of service and skill — plus, a hefty dose of creativity. The team’s passion for what they do is palpable, with a comprehensive in-house training programme that keeps each stylist, colourist and assistant abreast of the latest international trends and techniques. Instantly recognisable from the large-scale photo editorials on its Redmond St windows, D&M’s lively salon and its resident team welcome even new clients like old friends.
Ryder, Britomart Something of a stalwart in Auckland’s hairdressing scene, Britomart’s award-winning salon Ryder has been operating since 1999 under the meticulous and brilliant eye of Greg Murrell. The salon’s history has been deftly intertwined with the local fashion industry, shaping some of the most iconic looks that have defined on-shore trends. Within the salon, Ryder also proudly hosts the work of artist Michael Parekowhai — speaking to the multi-faceted appeal of this institution.
M11 Studio
M11 Studio, Newmarket Staking its luxurious place on the corner of Newmarket’s McColl Street, M11 Studio has solidified its reputation for excellence across all categories of haircare, styling, maintenance, and even makeup services, since it was founded by Mobeen Bhikoo and Trish Mathews in early 2016. Both have decades of experience in the industry, and a great eye for contemporary cuts and colours that are expertly executed to be effortlessly worn by their clients — as do M11’s team of highly accomplished and experienced stylists. From the moment one is welcomed into the award-winning, Hare Interiors-designed salon, an appointment at M11 is a welcome oasis of pampering, fit for the most discerning of clients.
Hèlmut, Grafton This intimate wee Grafton salon represents the new vaguard of salons that we find utterly enticing. Small and pared-back in its nature (thanks to a meticulous interior fit-out by Katie Lockhart Studio), the team here is close-knit and incredibly talented, with a slant toward an editorial-inspired appeal. If it’s bold and brave colours and copper tones you seek, few do it better than Hèlmut.
Left: Dakota Right: Hare & Hunter
Hare & Hunter, Remuera This Remuera-based salon has only been taking care of Eastern Suburbs’ tresses since 2020, but has garnered an excellent reputation thanks to its owner. Alongside specialising in lived-in looks, Brooke Mann has become one of the most sought-after bridal stylists in known, known for her signature tousled looks that only serve to enhance life’s most perfect moments. Alongside weddings, Mann’s vast and varied services can be employed for any upcoming events too.
Dakota, Ponsonby Specialising in the kind of lived-in blonde that is genuinely low maintenance, Becca Brown has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the best blonde colourists in the City. The salon itself is small and intimate, and from its Richmond Road address, it is a must-visit for anyone seeking the beach babe blonde.
Una, Kingsland If you’re looking to have your tresses tended to by the best, make for Kingsland-based salon Una, who were recently awarded New Zealand salon of the year at the industry awards. Whether it’s beautifully blended balayage or a chic French bob you seek, you’ll be in good hands here.
In Sydney’s Northern Beaches lies Pavilion House by Nina Maya, a sleek bungalow that capitalises on its surroundings while showcasing an impressive collection of custom-made furniture and art to offer the ultimate escape from city life.
With the entire design realm at your fingertips, creating a home that answers your personal needs could seem like an insurmountable task. But this was not the case for Nina Maya, the design doyenne behind Nina Maya Interiors, who, upon acquiring a single-storey pavilion house in Avalon, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, set out to transform it into a breathtaking beach retreat that captures the essence of her design philosophy. The interior of the house exudes a sense of minimalism, relaxed sleekness and neutrality, providing the perfect canvas to showcase the meticulously-crafted custom lighting, furniture and artworks.
Being both the designer and client, Maya had the freedom to transform the simple existing structure into her dream beach house. Every detail of the address, from the initial design concept to the commissioned pieces, was thoughtfully curated to create an utterly serene home. The result is a haven of tranquillity that not only reflects Maya’s unique design approach but also highlights the exceptional talents of the collaborators involved in the project.
“The kitchen joinery seamlessly merges with the walls, creating a minimalist backdrop that allows the exquisite Brescia green marble kitchen island and benchtops to take centre stage.”
Maya’s personal design philosophy is evident throughout the interior, which emphasises clean lines and a harmonious material palette, where detail is purposeful and poised. The walls, ceilings and living room floor are adorned with a velvety-textured micro-cement coating that delicately shimmers when bathed in light. The kitchen joinery seamlessly merges with the walls, creating a minimalist backdrop that allows the exquisite, Brescia green marble kitchen island and benchtops to take centre stage.
Yet it is the curated selection of distinctive artworks that add a touch of individuality and charm to the house. The dining room is graced by the mesmerising ‘Infinity Works’ light, a creation by artist Max Patté, while the kitchen features a playful resin form crafted by local artist Tan Arlidge. Each piece of furniture, lighting and artwork was custom-designed or commissioned exclusively for the house, showcasing Nina Maya Interiors’ unwavering commitment to delivering truly exceptional and unique pieces (and the designer’s incredible Rolodex of contacts). The furniture boasts rounded and voluminous forms, while the lighting fixtures, fastidiously crafted by Canadian designer Randy Zieber, are adorned with luxurious materials such as alabaster, marble and bronze.
“Maya’s personal design philosophy is evident throughout the interior, which emphasises clean lines and a harmonious material palette, where detail is purposeful and poised.”
Outside, the house is surrounded by a multi-faceted space that includes a pavilion with an outdoor bathroom, an inviting alfresco dining area, a circular fire pit and a lush garden with majestic gum trees and swaying palm trees. These sanctuaries seamlessly blend with the interior design, offering residents a luxurious extension to immerse themselves in the coastal landscape.
The Pavilion House perfectly complements Maya’s recent project, The Glasshouse in Paddington, serving as a testament to the designer’s ability to create bespoke designs, unparalleled craftsmanship, and extraordinary living experiences in both coastal and urban settings. It is an approach that sees her design vision continue to redefine the essence of luxury living, with an unwavering dedication to creating exceptional spaces that are a true reflection of her clients’ desires and aspirations.
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