Any entertainer knows the crucial importance of a well-stocked bar for hosting success. Whether you opt for something that is tucked tidily behind sleek doors or installed as a focal point in the corner of a room, these home bar options (and accoutrements) are sure to keep the good times rolling, no matter the occasion.
As summer starts to fade and the cool days of autumn set in, now is the best time to think about booking a tranquil spa day to ease you into the season. Luckily, Sofitel Spa — a veritable haven of health, wellbeing and rejuvenation — is running an unmissable deal over the next month, giving us every excuse to book in for a blissful treatment (or two).
Available exclusively from Tuesday to Thursday throughout March, Sofitel Spa is offering an extra 30 minutes for every 60-minute treatment booked, whether it be a soothing massage, a revitalising facial, a pampering body treatment or anything in between.
Promising more than enough time to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, Sofitel Spa’s serene oasis and skilled therapists will transport you to a world of pure bliss, where each treatment is tailored to nourish your body, mind and soul. With a focus on French cosmology and premium skincare brands such as Elemis, Biologique Recherche and Nellie Tier, Sofitel Spa promises a holistic approach to wellness that will leave you feeling utterly renewed and ready to take on the season ahead.
So, whether you’ve been feeling down at the prospect of seasonal change, or are already burnt out from the start of your working year, don’t miss the opportunity to treat yourself to a luxurious, limited-time experience. Our advice? Lock in your appointment now.
When renowned Italian jewellery house, Pomellato, was founded in 1967, it upended the industry by introducing the concept of ready-to-wear jewels. Since then, the brand has been seen as a leader in its field, and its designs widely-sought-after as iconic collector pieces.
As Sarah Hutchings (Director of Orsini Fine Jewellery, exclusive New Zealand Pomellato stockist) says, it represents everything she loves about Italian jewellery and craftsmanship. “I fell in love with Pomellato on my earliest trips to Italy,” Hutchings explains, “and over the years I have spent so much time in its headquarters.” She continues, “every Pomellato piece is made with meticulous care by Italian craftspeople… the brand’s mission of bringing the jewel out of the safe and into the everyday embodies the attitude of the women who wear and love it; women who are self-confident, creative, sensual and unconventional.”
Indeed, over the years, Pomellato has become globally renowned for its unique designs that marry eye-catching colour with simple shapes and fine diamonds. Its beauty lies in the way it can be dressed up or down, depending on where it’s being worn, which, as Hutchings emphasises, makes it perfect for her New Zealand customers too.
For Hutchings, who is a jewellery and gemology expert also known for her bespoke engagement rings, Pomellato, with its versatility, stackability and striking colours is a brand that will make heads turn in any setting, and should be a staple brand in every discerning jewellery-lover’s collection.
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 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.
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.
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.
The Greenhouse
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.
With the summer holidays now a distant memory, and the European summer season still months away (for those lucky enough to be partaking), we’re looking local for a quick escape to scratch our insatiable holiday itch. And in the spirit of encouraging those feeling the same to indulge in a sumptuous staycation, we’ve rounded up our favourite hotel suites across the city. Whether for a special occasion or just for the feeling of a break from the daily routine, these are the best rooms to book now (and you don’t even have to get on a plane).
Best for: a luxurious Mother’s Day getaway
With its luxurious touches and prime location, the Sofitel Hotel in Viaduct Harbour should be high on any staycation list. Particularly with its opulent spa, which just happens to stock cult French skincare brand Biologique Recherche and promises indulgent facials, massages and body treatments guaranteed to rejuvinate. If you’re seeking pure indulgence, book the Sofitel’s Opera Suite, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer spectacular city views that allow guests to feel as involved in the action as they are away from it all. Here, contemporary design is entwined with delightful touches of luxury and considered objets d’art that deliver a modern, Parisian vibe. With a lounge and dining space separate to the bedroom as well as an oversized bathroom equipped with Hermès amenities, this suite makes for an escape like no other.
Best for: a romantic anniversary celebration
Nestled in the heart of Britomart, this chic hotel offers five exquisite suites designed to provide a calm respite from the bustle of the city. Our pick? The Rangihoua Suite — 65 square-metres of sumptuous, contemporary luxury on the top floor of the The Hotel Britomart, boasting north-facing views to the Waitematā Harbour as well as its own sprawling terrace and outdoor fireplace. With warm, modern interiors, a generous living space featuring a curated library, an ensuite bathroom complete with a deliciously deep bathtub in which to soak the day away, and the option of ordering room service from none other than Kingi, this suite will have you forgetting you’re in the middle of Auckland — if only for a night or two.
Best for: a peaceful pre or post-holiday retreat
A quietly luxurious hotel with a healthy dose of culture is what you’ll find at the newly-opened Pullman. Perfectly placed, this five star hotel is located a short walk from Auckland Airport’s international terminal, offering travellers the perfect spot to find rest, relaxation and much more. Meaningful design sits at the heart of this hotel, paying homage to the land on which it sits — with an exterior facade shaped to face Auckland’s three entry points, and interiors thoughtfully themed around New Zealand’s native landscape, with cultural nods throughout. Outside of the exceptional hospitality offering (Te Kaahu, helmed by chef Nancye Pirini, offers refined fare sure to satisfy), the executive suites are where the hotel’s thoughtful design shines the brightest. Here, you’ll find a cloud-like King size bed, spacious bathroom (complete with standalone bath), a well-appointed kitchen, a luxurious lounge room, and even a dedicated work space.
Best for: an indulgent girls’ getaway
With an enviable waterfront position affording its guests’ unmatched views across the harbour, the Park Hyatt takes the idea of staycationing to new heights. Its Presidential Suite offers 245 square-metres of penthouse privacy, complete with separate living and dining areas, a fully-equipped kitchen, internal boardroom, private outdoor garden, personal gym and secure VIP access (if you’re feeling extra). If all that seems a bit much, the Chairman’s Suite and the Executive Suite both offer similar experiences with slightly smaller footprints. Oh and while you’re there, be sure to indulge in a meal or two at the Park Hyatt’s restaurant Onemata. We recommend the whitebait.
Best for: a chic change of scenery
Retreat to this cosy corner of Grey Lynn at beautifully-finished, boutique accommodation, The Convent. Once a community for nuns (hence the name), this petite hotel packs a punch on the design front, and its Superior Suite is the perfect place to spend a quiet night or two. Ornate ceilings meet arched windows in a space that feels at once luxurious and charmingly eccentric. With a plush king bed, a private balcony, a separate lounge area and all the expected trimmings one might expect from a hotel stay, but with a distinctly curated twist, The Convent feels like a home away from home. Any stay here should be accompanied by a dinner at The Convent’s lauded (and extremely popular) restaurant, Ada.
Best for: a convivial weekender
Few places make the outside world drift away as swiftly as a QT Hotel. The renowned chain, best known for its intriguing, modern fit-outs and undeniably ‘cool’ take on hotel luxury, opened an outpost in Viaduct Harbour in 2020, and has proved the ideal staycation spot. In QT’s impressive Premier Harbour Suite, guests can expect expansive harbour views, a spacious, carefully-considered floorplan, warm, textural touches, a super luxurious Super King bed, a generous bathroom with a rainfall shower and standalone bath, and, best of all, your very own in-room bar. Oh, and QT is also home to acclaimed chef Sean Connolly’s new venture Esther, as well as only a short walk to all the bars and restaurants Viaduct Harbour has to offer.
Abstract, Auckland CBD
Cordis, Auckland CBD
Franklin38, Freemans Bay
Hotel Fitzroy by Fable, Grey Lynn
The Oyster Inn, Waiheke Island
The Grand by SkyCity, Auckland CBD
SO/, Auckland CBD
Sudima, Auckland CBD
The Boatshed, Waiheke Island
The Hilton, Princes Warf
The Intercontinental, Commercial Bay
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.
Ahi, Commercial Bay
Alma, Britomart
Annabel’s Wine Bar, Ponsonby
Apero, K’Road
Azabu, Mission Bay & Ponsonby
Beau, Ponsonby
Bossi, Auckland CBD
Bivacco, Viaduct Harbour
Cafe Hanoi, Britomart
Candela, K’Road
Otto, K’Road
Darling on Drake, Victoria Park
Ebisu, Britomart
East Restaurant, Auckland CBD
Eden Noodles, Commercial Bay
Esther, Viaduct Harbour
Hello Beasty, Viaduct Harbour
Ockhee, Ponsonby
Hotel Ponsonby, Ponsonby
Gemmi, Commercial Bay
Gochu, Commercial Bay
Ghost Street, Britomart
Inca, Ponsonby
Jervois Steak House, Herne Bay
Kingi, Britomart
Lilian, Grey Lynn
Non Solo Pizza, Parnell
Origine, Commercial Bay
Poni, Commercial Bay
Pici, K’Road
Prego, Ponsonby
Saint Alice, Viaduct Harbour
SPQR, Ponsonby
Sri Pinang, K’Road
Tacoteca, City Works Depot
The Blue Breeze Inn, Ponsonby
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.
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.
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
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.
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