With an increasing desire for delicious alcohol-free drinks in bars and restaurants, more and more venues are upping the ante on their drinks lists, and Ahi is one such establishment — introducing an incredible selection of probiotic wild sodas, naturally fermented with ingredients from the Ahi Garden.
Bar Manager Egor Petrov is behind the new drinks, carefully selecting herbs, fruit, and flowers from the Ahi Garden, and pairing these incredible ingredients with raw honey and water to brew gut-loving, healthy tonics. “Good and bad bacteria is all around us, and it’s their misbalance that makes us sick.” says Petrov, before continuing “I wanted to create drinks at Ahi that counter this, reimagining the traditional restaurant and bar offering with the addition of healthy tonics that are rich in good bacteria and support the gut microbiome.”
left to right: Apple Mint and Flowering Basil
My job as a ‘fermentologist’ is to create an environment where good bacteria thrive and bad bacteria don’t — and that’s what I’ve done with our wild sodas.” Going further than the standard kombuchas you’ll find on many drinks menus when dining out, these sodas are unique in that typical ferments are made with a ready culture (like a scoby), but Petrov relies solely on the probiotic bacteria that live on the plants in Ahi’s garden. “I believe that this is a healthier way to ferment probiotic drinks, because a kombucha scoby or a kefir grain will produce alcohol as a byproduct of fermentation, but the method I’m using relies on natural bacteria that lowers the PH of the fermented beverage instead.” Petrov tells me.
The first of their kind in New Zealand, seasonal ingredients available in the garden will dictate the ever-changing flavours of the wild sodas. For now, you’ll find the likes of crisp Apple & Mint, a beautifully balanced flowering basil iteration, and a unique field blend of apple marigold, lemon balm and amaranth.
There’s a new reformer studio in town, and the location couldn’t be better. Sitting pretty within Commercial Bay’s bustling hospitality and retail precinct in Auckland’s CBD, Reform is a boutique reformer pilates studio offering group classes and personal training in a light, airy space right in amongst the action.
Reform has made a name for itself up and down the country as one of New Zealand’s leading reformer pilates providers, focusing on dynamic, controlled and functional exercises to achieve long, lean muscles and tone. Each workout covers the full body (as opposed to focusing on one muscle group per exercise), resulting in an intense session that is easy on the joints, but amazing for results.
So, if you work close by, head to the Commercial Bay studio for a pre or post-work burn (or a sneaky lunchtime session) — and be sure to make the most of the opening special and secure a 10-class pack for $180 (to be used within a month). Or, if you’re new to reformer, grab a one-off pass to give it a go (be warned, it’s incredibly additive!), and if you’re a pro, book a private session with an instructor to advance your practice — at Reform Commercial Bay, they’ve got it all.
I think we can all agree that we’ve been enjoying a seriously spectacular summer this year, and it’s gone a long way to lifting the general mood. Whether you’ve been enjoying al fresco dinners, days by the pool or lounging in the garden, summer afternoons at home have been a dream, and there are still a few weeks of seasonal bliss left to soak it all in.
That said, those of us who have noticed, over the last few months, that perhaps our outdoor spaces aren’t as equipped for the warm season as they should be, take note. Several of Auckland’s most sought-after design destinations have sales on some of their spectacular outdoor furniture pieces, from plush sofas to statement-making tables to dining chairs and more. Whatever you need for your outdoor space, this is your chance to pick up a designer piece at an appealing discount. Don’t miss out!
Shop The Sale
Studio Italia
Kettal giro folding dining chair set from Studio Italia
Opened by the seasoned duo of Alastair Walker and Heather Garland, whose combined expertise in mixology and hospitality spans over three decades, and whose other venues include Caretaker and Deadshot (two of the most popular bars in Auckland), Rocketman is more than just an interesting place to grab a drink — it’s an immersive journey into a world where nostalgia meets innovation.
“When the space upstairs from Caretaker became available, we knew we had to take it,” Garland tells me, “but we wanted to create something that felt very different to Caretaker.” Drawing inspiration from their fondest memories of convivial bar nights, where spontaneous revelry and dancing would collide to create something magical, Garland and Walker envisioned a space where patrons could unwind, let loose and partake in a bit of mischief, all while savouring a range of expertly crafted libations. At Rocketman, the boundaries between reality and whimsy blur, where retro-futurist aesthetics meld seamlessly with playful touches; the back bar is made of a replica aeroplane fuselage and sumptuous velvet-clad walls create an ambience that is both enchanting and inviting. “It’s a bit of a mad place,” Garland laughs, “but we wanted people to get caught up in the madness and forget their worries.”
Of course, given the experience of Garland and Walker, it’s hardly surprising that at Rocketman, a well-crafted drinks list is the hero. From seasonal cocktails showcasing the finest spirits and ingredients sourced locally (including citrus from the owners’ own citrus farm) to a carefully curated wine list featuring local gems handpicked by esteemed sommelier Camilo Deichler, there’s something to satisfy every palate. And for those who prefer hops to grapes, Rocketman’s Manager (and resident beer aficionado), Lennox is always at the ready to guide guests through an impressive array of local brews.
But Rocketman isn’t just about the drinks — it’s about the entire experience. Chef Chino Salazar’s concise but hearty menu of bar classics with a modern twist provides the perfect accompaniment to the libations, ensuring that every craving is met with culinary finesse and flair. And hidden behind a discreet cupboard door lies Kitty’s Karaoke Parlour, a secret enclave where patrons can unleash their inner rockstar amidst a backdrop of pink ruffles and neon lights.
More than a typical bar, Rocketman is a destination. Whether you’re seeking a night of revelry with friends or a unique venue for a special event, its eclectic interiors, tasty cocktails and friendly service promise an experience that is as unlike anything else in this city. If you haven’t tried it yet, consider this your sign to.
Since opening its doors in 2021, Sìso has been turning out consistently exceptional Mediterranean fare in the heart of Remuera. Serving utterly delicious food and exceptional drinks in an inviting, homely space, the neighbourhood eatery quickly solidified itself as a go-to for Remuera locals (and those coming from further afield) looking for an elevated spot to wine and dine. Three years down the track, the now-institution is still delivering on all fronts — adding to their offering once again with the return of the infamous locals lunch.
Left: Crispy calamari. Right: Church Road Wines
Aged risotto
Running 12-3pm Wednesday through Friday, the entirely delicious Locals Lunch features an entrée and main, plus a glass of Church Road wine, for a modest $45. From their famous crispy calamari with nduja mayo, lemon, and chilli oil, and sourdough flatbread topped with parsnip hummus, toasted cashew tarator, and parsley for starters, to the delectable aged risotto with charred sweetcorn, fresh stracciatella and brown butter, and chicken Milanese topped with anchovy lemon butter and served with sautéed greens, here, there’s something for every taste and proclivity.
So, regardless of whether or not you reside in the leafy suburb, make for Sìso, where you’ll always have a seat at the table.
Positioned in the heart of Ponsonby, Auckland’s most popular dining and retail district, The Greenhouse is a new beacon of contemporary architecture and luxury that is utterly unlike anything this suburb has seen before. Developed by Ockham Residential, this ambitious landmark building is set to redefine the concept of urban living, seamlessly integrating modern design with a deep reverence for the natural environment and offering the kind of lifestyle one might expect to find in some of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities.
For starters, The Greenhouse is undeniably captivating to look at, its façade finished in 150,000 green-glazed bricks, meticulously sourced from Italy. Inspired by the diverse hues of Auckland’s landscapes, these bricks create a mesmerising interplay of colour, reflecting the beauty of their surrounding environment and drawing onlookers in for their tonal depth. It is an attention to detail that sets the tone for what to expect inside The Greenhouse, a place where meticulous craftsmanship and visionary design offer spaces to find rest, relaxation and reflection; spaces where the noise of the outside world feels a million miles away.
Inside The Greenhouse, one is immediately enveloped in refined elegance and understated luxury. “All the materials we’ve chosen are inspired by nature — the birds, the bush and the ocean,” Lead Architect Tania Wong says. “We wanted to bring that feeling inside the building too.” From the outside in, the Greenhouse is a response to the particular conditions of Auckland and its environment, which not only makes it visually arresting, but makes it feel deeply connected to the city in which it stands (and in turn, offering that same sense of connection to its residents, too).
The Greenhouse’s Lobby
The entry lobby sets this tone in fine fashion, boasting dark slate tiles, smoky mirrored glass and a breathtaking ‘Melt’ pendant by Tom Dixon as the striking centrepiece. Artworks by New Zealand artists grace the walls and lift carriages, while the common spaces on the upper levels are finished with walnut veneer entry doors, custom-designed carpet, chevron-patterned ceramic wall tiles and mirror and brass details.
“As soon as you step into the lobby,” Wong says, “your feet land on dark slate floor tiles cut and laid in a chevron pattern. The colour is reminiscent of Karekare sand and the chevron pattern mirrors the feather pattern I’ve used on the glazing of the ground floor… and the glass house at the top of the building. Ahead of you, the lift doors are finished in brass, perfectly complementing the green bricks.”
One common space in The Greenhouse that is particularly notable is the exquisite residents’ lounge. Designed with rich wood panelling, bespoke artwork and a magnificent 10-seater dining table (designed by Tim Webber and crafted from the rafters of the original building that stood on The Greenhouse’s site), this room was made as the ultimate entertainer’s hub, destined to be the site of many a convivial dinner party or celebratory get-together.
The residents’ lounge
This detail-oriented design philosophy continues in The Greenhouse’s carefully conceived apartments. From their warm oak floors and brass accents, to their large windows (designed to optimise natural light), high ceilings and private balconies, every aspect of the residences exude sophistication and style. Even the kitchens and bathrooms showcase how nothing has been left to chance, the former offering floor-to-ceiling walnut cabinetry, integrated Fisher & Paykel appliances and benchtops in either black slate or engineered stone; the latter, rendered in either dark slate or light-coloured floor and wall tiles, basalt basins, aged brass tapware and Fired Earth green shower tiles.
Again, Wong’s deft hand and detailed eye is evident throughout all of the apartments, creating spaces that seamlessly blend form and function in order to provide residents with homes that feel, at once luxurious and liveable.
Despite facing unprecedented challenges, including a global pandemic and material shortages, the construction of The Greenhouse has persevered, which is a true testament to the unwavering commitment of the development team. And thank goodness, because the result is an architectural masterpiece that symbolises resilience and determination — two qualities that also speak to the spirit of the community in which it stands.
Apartment Interior
In fact, The Greenhouse’s position in the heart of vibrant Ponsonby is one of its most appealing qualities. Residents can enjoy world-class dining establishments, boutique shops and lush parks right on their doorsteps while immersing themselves in a suburb that has become widely sought-after for its inclusive cultural landscape, dynamic vibe and natural beauty.
In essence, The Greenhouse is more than just a building; it’s a celebration of architecture, creativity, perseverance and our deep connection to the natural world. And as it joins the Ponsonby skyline, it reminds us of the transformative power of visionary design and the enduring spirit of community.
The Greenhouse has a variety of corner two bedrooms (northwest-facing), one bedroom plus study (northwest-facing), and studios (east-facing and west-facing) for sale now. Open homes start this weekend, Saturday and Sunday from 2 until 3pm at 20 Williamson Avenue, Grey Lynn.
This week, we are collectively craving Ebisu’s deliciously fresh, entirely satisfying bento boxes — a curated selection of the eatery’s most-loved Japanese fare. Here, at the Britomart stalwart (and long-time favourite of Team Denizen) the bento boxes sit as a delectable smorgasbord of the contemporary Japanese flavours Ebisu has been known for turning out across the past decade.
Each box, available for a modest $39 per person (or $49 with the addition of a glass of wine or tap beer), features a tasty mix of free-range karaage chicken, tuna sashimi salad, homemade pickles, miso soup, and steamed rice, served with your choice of either free-range teriyaki chicken, chargrilled Angus scotch fillet with wafu sauce, daily market fish with yuzu ponzu & white miso puree, or crispy, fried teriyaki tofu. Better still, there’s an option to upgrade your rice to either a salmon avocado roll or the teriyaki chicken iteration, for $7, or swap out your karaage chicken to crisp soft-shell crab for $10.
Be it a quick lunchtime bite or a delicious dinner paired with a bottle or two of satiating sake for the table, we suggest making for Ebisu this weekend and indulging in one of the delightful bento boxes yourself. And if this style of eating isn’t for you, you’ll find a menu packed with fresh sushi and sashimi, mouthwatering meats, inventive vegetarian dishes and flavourful umami bites — sure to satisfy any and every taste and proclivity.
When approaching a house build or renovation, the most difficult part can be knowing where to start in order to get the outcome you want. And with a vast array of designers, architects, builders and more at your fingertips, it can be even harder knowing who to approach to get the process going. This is exactly why ArchiPro’s Home Design Evening has become such a significant and sought-after event for both homeowners and professionals within the design and building industries. Since its inception in 2016, this exclusive event has, year after year, drawn over 1,000 homeowners and industry professionals, cementing its status as New Zealand’s premier home design gathering, and one you certainly don’t want to miss out on.
At its core, The Home Design Evening embodies ArchiPro’s mission to inspire people to create better spaces in their homes. As such, the event serves as a nexus where homeowners seeking to embark on building or renovating projects can connect with top-tier industry professionals, including architects, interior designers, builders and landscapers in order to create meaningful connections and facilitate collaborations that have the potential to transform visions into reality.
What sets The Home Design Evening apart from others of its kind is its curated atmosphere of inspiration, discovery and networking. Set against a delightful backdrop of music, drinks and delectable canapes, attendees are immersed in an environment conducive to creativity and innovation. More than a typical networking event, it’s an immersive experience — a chance for homeowners to engage directly with New Zealand’s leading professionals and brands in a more laid-back setting.
Moreover, The Home Design Evening provides a unique platform for product suppliers to showcase their offerings to a captive audience. Attendees gain access to the latest products, innovations and high-quality materials that architects love to use, which promises ample inspiration for those with projects in the works.
Of course, an event of this quality and scale is exclusive, and while it is not necessarily open to the public, interested homeowners can register here, which will allow ArchiPro to undergo a validation process to ensure that all of those in attendance harbour genuine planning or building intentions. With spaces limited, securing a spot at The Home Design Evening is a coveted opportunity for those serious about their design aspirations, and is an evening that promises to take any project to the next level.
Encapsulating the essence of collaboration, innovation and excellence in the realm of architecture and design, ArchiPro’s next Home Design Evening is taking place on Friday the 8th of March at Shed 10 on Queens Wharf, and is shaping up to be a night in which the design community comes alive, where ideas are exchanged and where visions of exceptional living spaces are nurtured and realised. It is the perfect first step for any home project journey, and will leave attendees feeling inspired, motivated and ready to turn their dream homes into realities. Don’t miss out.
Every year, Milan Fashion Week draws the who’s who of fashion for some of the most significant shows of the season. From Gucci (where Sabato de Sarno continues to unveil his vision for the storied brand) to Jil Sander’s characteristically chic collection, to Prada’s proliferation of hats, here, we round up some of our favourite looks from the best shows of Milan Fashion Week’s Fall 2024 season.
When Cotto, the beloved Karangahape Road dining destination renowned for its flavoursome fare and epic pasta, closed suddenly last year, it left a significant hole in our lives. After all, it had firmly established itself as one of the best places to pop into for a tasty bite, or a convivial dinner with friends. It even had a private room that had become popular for a range of events, from intimate celebrations to large parties. In fact, Cotto’s potent mix of delicious food, good vibes, great service and its position in the heart of Karangahape Road had made it something of an iconic Auckland destination, one of those places that seemed to keep getting better with every visit.
Arancini sweetcorn taleggio basil
Maltagliati Lamb Shoulder Ragu
But after a series of internal disruptions towards the end of last year, Cotto had to close its doors, leaving a number of question marks lingering around when they would reopen, and if indeed they were planning on reopening at all.
Fast forward to this week and we are delighted to say that Cotto is back in business, and while much of the offering has remained the same, from the space to the menu, and even the waitstaff (why mess with a good thing, right?) there are a couple of key differences.
Spinach & goats cheese dumplings
Zucchini fritti Lemon
Firstly, Cotto is now Otto. A subtle name shift to indicate the second big change: that the restaurant has a team of new owners, including Edward Hurrell and John Pountney (also the Head Chef) and two of what was previously Cotto’s core team members. “We hope to bring back what we managed to achieve as the Cotto team and more,” Hurrell tells me. “To resurrect a restaurant that people loved with its delicious food, fun atmosphere and great value, amongst the energy we all enjoy about K’ Road. The entire team is thrilled to have this opportunity to be a part of the community again.”
For Hurrell and the other new owners, the shift from ‘Cotto’ to ‘Otto’ was significant despite its simplicity. It was important for the team to disassociate themselves from the restaurant’s previous owner (whose poor business dealings had not only lead to the restaurant’s initial closure but had left a legacy of debt and burnt bridges). “We felt that, although we created the brand Cotto, the bad debts left around town by the owner/investor warranted a subtle rebrand,” Hurrell explains. “It’s close enough to the original name, but also indicates a new era for our loyal staff, suppliers and customers.”
So for anyone who was mourning the loss of their favourite dining spot, Otto is now open and busy again, as it should be! If you haven’t been there in a while, this is a great time to book a table.
The 2024 Iconic Auckland Eats list, featuring 100 of Auckland’s top dishes as nominated by the public, has just been released — giving Aucklanders and those visiting a comprehensive guide to what to eat across the region. Developed annually, the list sits as a celebration of Auckland’s incredible, diverse culinary scene, highlighting unique and beloved dishes bespoke to Tāmaki Makaurau.
Left: Bar Magda’s lamb ribs. Right: Cassia’s Pani Puri
Now in its fourth year, Iconic Auckland Eats was established by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited as a way to showcase the vibrancy of the region’s gastronomic offering, highlighting legendary dishes that range from fine dining to cheap and cheerful — covering everything in between, too. The dishes, submitted for consideration by locals, capture the essence of Auckland, embodying the cultural melting pot and richness that makes the region so special.
When it comes to what’s included, many Denizen favourites made the cut — from Bar Magda’s beautiful lamb ribs, served with pyanggang, green sambal, and a soft herb salad, to Amano’s famous scampi pasta (swoon), Depot’s fish sliders — unsurprisingly on the list for four years running, and Hello Beasty’s moreish prawn & crab toast.
Left: Sneaky Snacky’s hot chicken donut burger. Right: Amano’s scampi pasta
Icons like Eden Noodles’ dumplings in spicy sauce, Fish Smith’s fish tacos, Gochu’s milk bun, The Oyster Inn’s Te Matuku oysters, Soul Bar’s mouthwatering macaroni cheese, and Daily Bread’s irresistible custard square all feature, too, in amongst quirkier additions — from Lilian’s prosciutto and grape pizza to Sumthin Dumplin’s beef and cheese iteration, Sneaky Snacky’s hot chicken donut burger, Culprit’s ‘ugly carrots’, and Ahi’s scampi corndogs (a must try).
As has been the case since the initiative’s inception, the variety of cuisines on the list reflects the incredible mix of ethnicities in Auckland, and each nominated dish has a story behind the submission, with locals sharing insight into what the dish means to them.
While reading through the thousands of submissions, the team behind Iconic Auckland Eats selects a favourite entry that embodies the list’s ethos. This year, Tracy Berno was selected as a winner, receiving vouchers to enjoy all 100 dishes across the year. Tracy’s story told of her connection to Homeland’s delicious ika mata — a dish that pays homage to Auckland’s Pacific culture and heritage, and embodies the region’s multiculturalism and unique food scene.
So, be it inspiration for a venue to visit, or a specific dish to satisfy a craving, Iconic Auckland Eats’ top 100 list rounds up some of the top spots across the region — sitting as an incredible resource for locals or those visiting from further afield.
No matter the occasion, there’s always one day of the week that leaves Aucklanders in the lurch when it comes to dining. Eating out on a Monday isn’t always the standard, but sometimes, whether it’s an occasion to celebrate or a friend in town, the situation calls for it. And because hospitality workers are deserving of their own weekend too, many places are closed.
So, to avoid getting caught out next time you want to dine out on a Monday, our editors have rounded up a few of their favourite restaurants that can be relied upon any day of the week.
With awards season in full swing, London Fashion Week coming to a close, and Milan and Paris fashion weeks just around the corner, the breakout hair trend of the year is making its mark: picture-perfect, sleek, silky, photo finish hair. According to hairstylist to the stars and industry stalwart Sam McKnight, there’s been a definitive move (back) towards more done hair, where subtle volume, shine, and gloss reign supreme.
A step back from slick buns, the idea here is a cool girl ponytail with a luxe, mirror-shine finish. To achieve the look, cleanse hair — thoroughly rinsing to avoid conditioner residue, before using heat tools to completely smooth any frizz or flyaways. Once light and fresh, sweep the hair into a tight pony using lightweight styling products to boost shine, before finishing with an oil — the secret to runway-ready locks.
Imbue your home with a tactile warmth by employing natural textures and materials. Raw timber, stone, bouclé upholstery, brass and leather detailing and soft woollen carpets all play into this trend, and will (when used correctly) result in an interior that feels inviting and cosy, but still decidedly contemporary and cool.
As much as we love the countless eateries in Auckland serving up both delicious food and elevated settings in which to enjoy it, it’s not every day that we have the time to sit down and enjoy a long, languorous lunch. Often, in the midst of a busy day, we simply need something quick and tasty to grab on the go, and luckily, there is no shortage of lunch spots in the city delivering just that. From satisfying sandos to pizza by the slice, satiating sushi, fresh salads, and delectable sweet treats to finish, here’s where to get your lunchtime fix.
When it comes to dressing in 2024, aesthetics are only one piece of an intricately woven puzzle. Wearability, versatility, functionality and durability all play an important part, amongst a host of other considerations — something Jaimie Webster Haines understands implicitly. Her eponymous label, Jaimie, is popping up this Thursday — Saturday at My Exhibition on Faraday Street in Parnell, showcasing the designer’s beautifully considered collection and offering styling advice and insight into the brand.
Left: London Shirt Release #01. Right: Bow Bow Bag
Having worked as a DJ, model and most recently, designer, both in New Zealand and abroad, Jaimie launched her label as an extension of her creative world — bringing together her passions for art, fashion, photography, and music, with her innate design sensibility and impeccable eye for detail to offer a concise edit of timeless, quality garments.
London Shirts & Karate Pants both from Release #01
The ethos behind Jaimie (the label, although the same could be said for the woman) is first and foremost centred on quality. Jaimie sources linens from Japan and Turkey and wool and cashmere from Italy, taking care to select fabrics that have enduring appeal and are built to last. The brand also utilises deadstock and textile mill leftovers where possible, as well as producing in small quantities — all with an eye to the environmental impact of the business. When it comes to production, Jaimie looks to local artisans and suppliers, carefully choosing partners that share her uncompromising commitment to craft and detail. The resulting pieces — from beautifully tailored shirts and trousers rendered in classic linen and the best quality cotton (the core of the label’s offering) to the occasional easy wearing dress or stand out accessory, are crafted with the objective of enhancing the daily life of the wearer. Any given piece by Jaime promises to provide not only comfort, but an intrinsic, emotional comfort, too — and an innate sense of confidence.
Left: Kyoto Shorts Release #01. Right: Vitals London Shirt
But don’t just take our word for it. The thing about quality design, exceptional fabrics and considered craftsmanship is that you need to experience it first-hand to truly appreciate its appeal. Knowing this, and in celebration of her new pieces and the launch of her website, Jaimie is taking up residence this weekend in the beautiful My Exhibition space. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the collection and Jaimie herself, who is around all weekend offering styling advice, insight into the garments, and of course, serving up epic tunes.
The Jaimie pop-up is running from Thursday 22nd — Saturday 24th February at My Exhibition, located at 15 Faraday Street.
Perfectly positioned within the charming enclave of London’s Notting Hill, a new architectural marvel has been unveiled, redefining the notion of refined urban living. Crafted by the visionary team at Banda Design, this exquisite townhouse on Leinster Square seamlessly blends the past with the present, drawing inspiration from the natural world to create a sanctuary of unparalleled elegance and sophistication. Here, we take you inside.
There is a sense of serenity that has been embedded into the design of this home, from the earthy, calm colour palette to the foundations of period features, and the soft, natural light that has been introduced in every space. Here, Banda has managed to create what feels like a modern family home with an aesthetic that is still deeply historic. Not an easy balance to strike.
The living space sets the tone for the rest of the home. A testament to Banda’s commitment to artistry and comfort, this room boasts a striking Aubusson verdure tapestry, dating back to the late 17th Century, alongside bespoke furnishings that effortlessly marry old-world charm with contemporary allure. Other sculptural furniture (including a 1960’s Äôs Swedish high back armchair, sourced from The Loods, and a rustic Joseph Berry dark timber coffee table), illuminated by the warm glow of a Murano glass chandelier, gives the space a sense of understated luxury and a timeless appeal.
In the kitchen, this idea continues, where intricate cornicing and a leaf-moulded ceiling rose (on which hangs a Beetle Chandelier in antique brass from Gallery L7) are juxtaposed against a modern marble island and Charles Dudouyt oak dining chairs from the 1950s, while a reupholstered mid-century Scandinavian daybed stands as a welcoming window seat. It’s a piece of architectural theatre set firmly within the context of contemporary design, creating a space that is as functional as it is visually captivating.
Upstairs, the master bedroom is a study in tranquility, with a bespoke headboard upholstered in Watts of Westminster Cumulus fabric and linen bedcovers adding to the ambience. A wrought iron stool and sculptural silk piece by Ursula Nistrup and Lotte Henriksen complete the space, offering an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Custom headboards and oak flutter side tables stand in the other bedrooms, too, where no detail has been left to chance. Even a child’s bedroom is a charming piece of design, adorned with a bed canopy in Alice Palmer’s embroidered lemon fabric with matching lemon box pleat lampshade.
Downstairs, the lower ground floor beckons with spaces designed for entertaining and relaxation. A bespoke bar and round travertine table provide the perfect setting for after-dinner drinks, while a gym flooded with natural light and finished in natural materials like timber, linen and leather offers an exceptional space for wellness and rejuvenation.
Exuding the kind of sophisticated, thoughtful, pared-back and ultimately liveable design for which Banda Design has become so known, this London townhouse is an exquisite example of how modern design is enhanced by honouring the history of a space. It’s hardly surprising that such a seamless home has come from the Banda team, a design office that its owner, Edo Mapelli Mozzi, has (in just 15 years) taken from a niche London development office to a burgeoning global property practice, with projects spanning the world.
A classic from kitchen whizz Liv Glazebrook of Kitchen of Treats, this fresh and succulent ceviche recipe is filled to the brim with umami flavours, pops of citrus, vibrant herbs and a touch of spice. Make the most of the few summer weeks we have left by whipping up a plate of this mouthwatering dish for your next get-together. It’s sure to impress.
Kitchen of Treats Ceviche Recipe
Ingredients
300g fish (trevally or kingfish recommended)
For the dressing: 65ml water 65ml white vinegar 65g sugar 65ml fish sauce 2 Tbsp lime/lemon juice 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
To finish: 1 ripe avocado, halved & sliced lengthways 1 long red chilli, finely sliced Mint leaves, thinly chopped Coriander, thinly chopped Crispy shallots
Method
1. Combine all dressing ingredients in a bowl and whisk until sugar is dissolved. Set aside. 2. Place the sliced avocado on the base of the medium plate and top with fish, sliced sashimi-style and evenly spaced. Generously spoon dressing over the fish. 3. Sprinkle with thinly sliced chilli, mint leaves and coriander. Finish with crispy fried shallots.
Set in an iconic building that dates back to the 1950s, a new restaurant and bar has landed in the heart of Epsom and it should definitely be on your radar. Meet The Emerald, owned and operated by Darren Tolley (a hospitality veteran with over 15 years in the industry and multiple venues under his belt) this welcoming, lush and sophisticated new dining destination marries timeless elegance with sophisticated flair, and offers a menu of delicious, modern-bistro fare to boot.
Inside, diners are immediately enveloped in a unique world. Loosely inspired by the idea of a greenhouse, The Emerald was designed by the experts at CTRL Space and boasts towering ceilings painted in a lush, verdant hue and expansive windows that flood the space with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere that is both spacious and intimate. Here, the carefully curated decor is almost reminiscent of a bygone era of glamour and refinement, where Art Deco charm meets sleek, contemporary details. “Think Hong Kong’s Raffles Hotel meets Islington local,” Tolley explains. “It is just the most beautiful space to be in, even photos do do it justice… it’s welcoming, light and airy and at night it takes a beautiful turn as the sun sets on the inside bar and the beautiful warm feature lights take over.”
At the helm in The Emerald’s kitchen is Executive Chef Ross Birch, a master of his craft with decades of experience and close to 10 years working with Tolley at his various venues. His innovative, modern bistro menu showcases the finest in locally-sourced ingredients and reimagines classic dishes with modern twists. Small options include salmon ceviche served with a mix of blood orange, soused fennel, hazelnut and sloe gin, salt n pepper crusted prawns and a ‘hand cut’ steak tartar with fried quail egg, truffled chips, shallot, pickles & beef fat mayo. While those seeking something more substantial should look to dishes like the classic steak frites, with grass-fed Lansdowne beef, pan juices, vine tomato and marmite hollandaise, or the torched kahawai fillet, green lip mussels, green marsala, potato and cucumber. On the sweet side of things, desserts like the Emerald eat ‘n mess, with meringue, macerated summer fruits and elderflower, or the chocolate delice with salted caramel, hazelnuts and coconut yoghurt are sure to satiate any cravings.
Beyond its tasty food, The Emerald is a vibrant social hub that buzzes with energy all day long. Whether it’s for a leisurely lunch with friends or a convivial after-work gathering, The Emerald’s vibe is always busy and bustling. Its central location on Greenwoods Corner, coupled with its reputation for impeccable service and ambiance, have already made it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, and as Tolley tells us, this is just the beginning.
Open seven days a week, from noon till late, The Emerald invites its guests to indulge in an unforgettable experience that transcends the ordinary. And whether you’re a local of the area, or are simply seeking a new watering hole that offers something a little different, this new destination should definitely be on your radar.
It’s no secret that the statistics around New Zealand’s poor mental health are staggering. Our nation’s rates of mental health challenges are shockingly disproportionate to the rest of the world, and often, it’s our most vulnerable communities that are the most greatly impacted. But increasingly, we’re seeing heed paid to an issue that has long been shied away from — with a growing number of Kiwis having the courage to speak up and seek support, and in doing so, inspiring those around them to acknowledge their own feelings.
There are a host of charities in New Zealand doing incredible work in this space — changing the narrative, raising awareness, removing the stigma, and shifting our collective thinking to incite radical change. One such organisation is Voices Of Hope, whose goal is spreading hope through the voices of those with lived experience. They also provide a safe space for those facing mental health challenges. This month, the charity is furthering their important and impactful work, shining the spotlight on a diverse range of individuals through a moving audio-visual exhibition entitled Behind the Smile.
Within the exhibition, open to the public now at Allpress Studio, 11 everyday kiwis have been profiled, shot by renowned photographer Tom Gould to capture the essence of each person in their ‘happy place’. The series features intimate, raw interviews that reveal the lived experiences and mental health struggles each person has faced, portraying vulnerability and strength through Gould’s moving portraiture. The hope is that, by witnessing a group of New Zealanders from all walks of life laying themselves and their struggles bare, others will be empowered to tell their stories and seek support, too.
Everyone faces struggles you can’t see behind the smile, and while this campaign and exhibition set out to spread hope to people who may be struggling, it also sits as a call to arms for us all to look past the surface and be more aware, empathetic, and in touch with our humanity.
Behind the Smile is a free exhibition at Allpress Studio, running from 16th February — 8th March
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