Challenge your perspective and elevate your surroundings with this selection of refined masterpieces. Whether you’re starting from scratch or adding to your cache, these inspiring pieces are sure to be a welcome addition to your walls.
Accord I by Ray Haydon, 2023. $13,900. American white oak, stainless steel base, 2300 x 250 x 250mm. From Sanderson Contemporary
Purple Twist by Simon Lewis Wards, 2023. $8,900. Cast Glass, 230 x 440 x 320mm. From Gallery thirty Three
Pou Sto by Seung Yul Oh, 2022. $17,500. Multi jet fusion printed resin with gold chrome, 60cm tall. From Starkwhite
Vivace study by Freeman White, 2023. $4,950. Oil on linen, framed, 355 x 450mm. From Sanderson Contemporary
DIAPIR VIII by Chauncey Flay & Lætitia Jacquetton, 2023. $6,500. Greywacke Stone & Hot Blown Glass 530 x 310 x 290mm. From Föenander Galleries
Te Au series I – VIII by Simon Kaan, 2023. $3,950. Ink on cotton paper, intaglio woodblock, framed 800 x 600mm. From Sanderson Contemporary
Iris 7 by Nagy Molnár, 2023. $47,500. Metal body, white metal frame, glass, mirror, changing LED lights (RGBW), controls, transformers, 125 x 125 x 15cm. From Lightworx Gallery
Spur Road West by Karl Maughan, 2023. $26,500. Oil on canvas, 1000 x 1000mm.From Gow Langsford Gallery
#75CCA2 – 2 – S/B by Zara Dolan , 2023. $5,100. Monotype print on wet strength cartridge paper, framed, 1500x 1060mm. From Sanderson Contemporary
Ichneutica Omoplaca by Liam Gerrard, 2023. $9,900. Charcoal and pastel on paper 1405 x 865mm. From Sanderson Contemporary
Waxing Gibbous to Waxing Crescent, November 2022, VI, by Kate van der Drift, 2023. $5,850. Chromogenic Photograph, edition 2 of 5 + 2AP, framed, 1423 x 1100mm. From Sanderson Contemporary
Levi IV by Kate Yesberg, 2023. $6,500. Framed acrylic on canvas, 1200 x 1200mm. From Suite Gallery
An impressive new precinct is taking shape in Auckland, promising to redefine the city’s urban landscape and breathe fresh life into its cultural heart. Part of a $600 million project by local development firm RCP and Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad (MRCB), who are internationally recognised for their Transport Oriented Developments, and supported by suburban regeneration specialists Eke Panuku, the new precinct will invigorate Auckland’s original arts quarter via a multi-faceted development that includes The Symphony Centre, the extensive refurbishment of Bledisloe House and the activation of intersecting laneways. Together, these developments will establish a dynamic cultural hub that marries innovation, sustainability and urban vitality across residential, commercial, retail, hospitality and public transit spaces; driving Auckland’s ongoing transformation into a truly world-class city.
At the centre of this grand precinct lies The Symphony Centre. Set to become the first transit-oriented development in New Zealand, this 21-storey, mixed-use marvel will emerge at the crossroads of Mayoral Drive and Wellesley Street and has been designed as a ‘vertical village,’ introducing a novel urban living concept to the City of Sails. Crucially, The Symphony Centre will be seamlessly integrated with Te Waihorotiu (Aotea) Station (Auckland’s bustling transport hub within the soon-to-be-finished City Rail Link), which will make it the first mixed-use property in New Zealand to be seamlessly connected to a public train station. The strategic significance of this cannot be overstated, with an estimated 54,000 Aucklanders predicted to pass through every day once the station is completed, making it the busiest station in the proposed network.
Boasting an elegant and distinctive curved façade, the iconic structure of The Symphony Centre was designed by globally-renowned architecture studio, Woods Bagot, and is destined to become a significant city landmark. Housing a variety of retail outlets, commercial office spaces and residential units under one roof, this development will blur the lines between work and leisure and will also, via a diverse mix of entertainment facilities, become the vibrant epicentre of Auckland’s cultural and entertainment quarter, and a lively destination long after standard business hours are over.
Importantly, as Bruno Mendes, Director at Woods Bagot, underlines, this development will foster a genuine sense of community. And in light of Auckland’s rapid growth and our burgeoning population, innovative solutions like this have become more essential than ever before.
All of that said, The Symphony Centre is set to be more than just an architectural marvel or a hub of cultural, commercial and residential activities; it is also committed to sustainability. The project has been meticulously designed with an eye on the future, and will strive to attain a 5-star Green Star rating for its commercial components and an impressive 7-star Homestar rating for its residential spaces. In an era where environmental responsibility is increasingly vital, this development will serve as a beacon of sustainable development, setting an example for how it can be achieved in a meaningful, long-term way.
Another central component of this ambitious precinct is the revitalisation of the heritage-listed Bledisloe House. Architecturally designed by PeddleThorp to a concept by Cheshire Architects, Bledisloe House is an industry-leading, upcycle project that will offer nine levels of premium commercial space above a vibrant dining and hospitality offering. Originally constructed in 1959, Bledisloe House is a heritage-listed building celebrated for its Modernist architectural features. Following a thoughtful redesign, this structure will infuse the new precinct with history, authenticity and energy, offering a harmonious blend of old and new, tradition and innovation — the perfect addition to a city that is ready to embrace the future while still honouring its past.
Cheshire Architects played a pivotal role in recognising the potential of Bledisloe House, delivering a considered design that paid homage to the building’s important, post-war identity, while focusing on a dynamic, mixed-use concept that would bring the essence of the area, and crucially, of Te Waihorotiu Station, into its ground-level entrances. Most impressive, however, is the fact that Bledisloe House will be built to achieve a NABERS rating — a global benchmarking system for commercial buildings with high-performing energy efficiency.
Finally, this exciting new precinct will also introduce a series of interconnected laneways designed to link Auckland’s most significant public transport hub to the rest of the city. These novel hybrid laneways will connect the Symphony Centre to Bledisloe House and beyond, and will become bustling public spaces filled with retail and hospitality offerings (akin to the kinds of laneways seen in places like Melbourne, Singapore and Oslo — cities known for their immersive urban environments). Boasting sandstone terraces, a graphic paving strategy, a richly native vegetation palette and the work of mana whenua artists Graham Tipene, Ted Ngataki and Maaka Potini, the laneways will not only serve a practical purpose but will harness Te Ao Māori concepts to deeply connect the wider precinct to its unique place in the world.
In an era defined by architectural innovation, sustainability and community-focused urban planning, Auckland’s newest precinct, comprising The Symphony Centre, Bledisloe House and its series of laneways is poised to become an iconic part of the city’s landscape. As these developments continue to evolve, they not only represent a physical transformation, but stand as a testament to Auckland’s enduring spirit and its commitment to a sustainable, cultural and cosmopolitan future. With no name unveiled yet for the precinct, we will be following developments closely for an exciting announcement in the near future.
If you’re already planning this year’s holidays, why not lock in one of these luxurious island getaways? With some of the most stunning archipelagos in the world on our doorstep, these exquisite resorts will offer unforgettable getaways where crystal clear waters, beautiful nature and plenty of sunshine will give you the rest, relaxation and recuperation you deserve.
Rarotonga
Te Vakaroa Villas
Te Vakaroa Villas in Rarotonga
An opulent retreat deserving of its accolade as the ‘Best South Pacific & Oceania Luxury Architectural Design Hotel’ in the World Travel Awards, Te Vakaroa Villas in Rarotonga is an oasis of tranquillity and refined elegance.
As you step into this exclusive haven, a sense of serenity will take hold, signalling the start of an extraordinary escape. The award-winning accommodation is nestled discreetly along the pristine beachfront of Muri Lagoon and comprises six luxurious villas, impeccably designed to merge with the Island’s natural allure, each offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Designed by renowned architect Lawrence Sumich, the resort harmoniously blends with its lush surroundings, where spacious interiors converge into outdoor spaces adorned with inviting loungers and a horizon-edged, heated infinity pool. The villas themselves are thoughtfully appointed and incredibly comfortable, offering convivial communal areas for dining and lounging as well as intimate spaces for relaxation, and moments of secluded repose.
Exquisite, daily tropical breakfasts are just the beginning of the culinary experiences here. With dining options ranging from Sails restaurant to the vibrant flavours found along the island road, guests can indulge in Rarotonga’s vibrant and flourishing culinary scene as well as its plentiful natural wonders. From beachfront strolls to adventurous kayak expeditions, the Island’s many splendours beckon from the unparalleled vantage point this accommodation offers. The only dilemma will be deciding whether to venture out and explore or savour every moment within the embrace of this heavenly escape.
Te Vakaroa Villas in Rarotonga
Need To Know
When to Visit: The best time to visit Rarotonga is between April and November, when the weather is warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 24 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius.
How to get there: Air New Zealand flies direct from Auckland to Rarotonga. When you land on the island, you will be driven 20 minutes to Te Vakaroa Villas via private transfer.
Insider’s Tip: Exploring the Muri Lagoon is a must while on holiday here. Make time to hire a glass bottom boat, or embark on a wind surfing or sailing adventure. The Rarotonga Sailing Club at Muri Lagoon welcomes all visitors.
French Polynesia
Brando Private Island Resort
The Brando Island Resort
Set on the enchanting Tetiaroa Atoll, The Brando stands as a sanctuary where nature and luxury converge, creating an unparalleled oasis. The atoll, sculpted by volcanic forces and protected by its enduring coral reefs, embodies a place of ethereal beauty and Polynesian authenticity (once the getaway spot of Tahitian royalty), and was somewhere famously cherished by the iconic actor Marlon Brando. Brando’s passion for environmental sustainability and appreciation for the Island’s untouched allure underpinned the realisation of a dream — The Brando. Since its inception in 2014, this exquisite, private accommodation has remained committed to its namesake’s vision, standing as a pinnacle of sustainable luxury in the heart of the Pacific. The resort’s architecture, defined by its LEED Platinum Certification (the first resort in the world to achieve that status), mirrors the delicate balance between modern luxury and an ethos deeply rooted in nature’s quiet rhythm.
Here, each of the 35 villas and one private residence are meticulously and sustainably designed where tranquillity reigns supreme and rest and rejuvenation unfold effortlessly. Immerse yourself in their cocooning embrace or explore the Island’s bountiful wildlife and breathtaking nature.
You can also indulge in The Brando’s exceptional culinary offering from revered chef Jean Imbert (ex-Plaza Athénée and Maison Christian Dior in Paris) or treat yourself at the resort’s peaceful Verua Te Ora Polynesian Spa.
Need To Know
When to Visit: The months between May and October are dry season in French Polynesia, which means the weather will be warm and humidity low.
How to get there: You can fly directly from Auckland to Tahiti, before jumping on a short but spectacular 20-minute flight to Tetiaroa onboard a private aircraft with Air Tetiaroa.
Insider’s Tip: Alongside exploring this exquisite Atoll on your own, book in a tour with one of the Island’s expert guides. You’ll get to experience the true Tetiaroa as you discover the wildlife, flora, archeology, culture and geology of this breathtaking spot, under the water, on land and from the sky.
Great Barrier Reef
Haggerstone Island
Haggerstone Island
Situated within the pristine expanses of the Great Barrier Reef, Haggerstone Island offers an exclusive haven for intrepid travellers seeking seclusion and unparalleled natural beauty. Established in the 1980s by Roy and Anna Turner, who built its five rustic villas out of driftwood and have been welcoming guests there since 1993, this remote paradise, shrouded in jungle wilderness, offers a unique experience in the heart of one of the most stunning parts of Australia.
Accessible from Cairns, Haggerstone Island stands as a gateway to unspoiled coral reefs and remarkable marine biodiversity. The Island caters only to a small number of guests at any one time, offering a range of activities that span from exploring shipwrecks and kayaking to snorkelling and fishing, harnessing the sheer abundance of marine life and the captivating marine habitats that lie just beyond the Island’s shores.
Nestled along the serene coastline, the Island’s five beachfront villas stand as individually-designed sanctuaries, blending Papua New Guinean and African architectural influences. Each villa boasts an air of undone luxury and offers absolute privacy and breathtaking ocean vistas, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the relaxed ethos of the Island, where connection with nature is paramount.
From the spacious and luxurious House Mawu to the open-plan Kwila Hut and the Beach Hut exuding a castaway allure, there is a villa to suit any kind of guest, or for those looking to do something really special, the whole island can be hired exclusively, resulting in an utterly unforgettable experience for 12 of your nearest and dearest.
Alongside the activities and accommodation, guests will enjoy some of the freshest food, thanks to Haggerstone’s commitment to sustainably sourced ingredients, seafood fished daily and organically grown produce from its onsite orchard.
Ultimately, Haggerstone Island’s unique, off-the-grid offering will see you revel in the simplicity of island life while immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. This will make for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Haggerstone Island
Need To Know
When to Visit: The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between the months of May and October, when rainfall is low, temperatures are perfect for swimming and underwater visibility is high.
How to get there: First, you must fly from Auckland to Cairns, from there, you can either charter a private (and very scenic) two-hour flight to the Island, or catch pre-organised flight to Weipa with Qantas, then board a private charter to Haggerstone’s air strip.
Insider’s Tip: All daily adventures on Haggerstone’s 45-foot jet boat are included in the accommodation cost, as well as equipment, so make the most of all the intrepid options on offer during your stay.
The long, languid days of sunshine, salt water, pool parties, family barbecues and kicking back are finally here. So make the most of the season with an outdoor set-up fit for all manner of activities.
From al fresco dining to poolside lounging to convivial hosting and more, these are the essential pieces you need this summer season.
Outside Dining
Offering the perfect centrepiece for gatherings of family and friends or for simply taking dinnertime outside, a solid dining table and chairs is crucial for any outdoor area. Not only will it facilitate conversation and allow you to take in the beauty of the season, but the right set will withstand the elements for seasons to come.
Kettal Giro dining table & Stampa chairs from Studio Italia
There’s nothing better than curling up in a sunny (or shady) spot with your favourite book, and these delightful daybeds are the ideal places to do just that. Comfortable, cosy and made to facilitate relaxed afternoons, these daybeds are essential for any well-furnished outdoor area.
Give your al fresco space some style with intriguing, sculptural design pieces that make a bold statement. Whether it be a uniquely-curved chair or a dining table that plays with brutalist proportions, these pieces will help you take your signature design style outside.
Simply put, a pool doesn’t feel complete without being surrounded by a suite of sleek loungers. Designed to help us soak in the summer rays, these loungers will make days by the pool a far more chic and definitely more comfortable affair.
Make the most of the season’s long, warm evenings by installing some strategic lighting in your outdoor space. From versatile table lamps to larger floor lights that cast a diffused, dappled glow, these pieces will set the perfect mood once the sun goes down.
Give yourself the perfect spot for reading, thinking and soaking up the sun with an outdoor occasional chair. Here, you can take a load off, put your feet up and recline in blissful peace.
Curate your exterior living space as carefully as you would your interior one. From a long, comfortable sofa (made with outdoor-appropriate coverings, of course) that invites laid-back lounging, to a central table, perfect for hosting nibbles and drinks, morning coffee or casual bites, this simple set-up is the easiest way to make the most of your terrace, garden or deck.
Going back to to the office doesn’t have to mean forgetting about your personal style. There are plenty of work-ready options that marry elegant, timeless design with interesting details, and if you ask us, most of them can be found at Muse.
From crisp shirting and flattering trousers to subtle accessories and bags that fit all the essentials, we have pulled our favourite pieces from Muse to see you back to the office in style. Shop our essential edit below.
While it has been glorious to bask in the warmth of summer for the last few weeks, the sun exposure that comes with long days by the pool can lead to a trove of seasonal skincare issues. From sunburn and irritation to dryness and pigmentation, the sunnier season can wreak havoc on our skin. But not all hope is lost, with just a few simple product changes it’s possible to both combat and prevent the sun’s damaging effects. Here, we outline the best way to switch up your skincare regime for the season.
01. The Cleanser
When searching for the right summer-ready cleanser, try opting for one boasting soft, soothing ingredients that will gently remove makeup, without stripping the skin of its moisture even further. The brightening Cleansing Cream from Sothys smoothes onto the face before gently cleansing and eliminating impurities — all while boosting radiance.
02. The Primer
Keeping makeup firmly in place during summer’s high temperatures is no easy feat, making a quality primer an essential. Try to find a multi-purpose primer like this Invisible UV Flawless Poreless Primerfrom Charlotte Tilbury, not only will it keep your makeup from slipping, but it also gives a hydration boost to sun-worn skin and helps prevent future damage by incorporating Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen.
03. The Lip Balm
One of the first places to fall subject to the suns wrath is our lips, and it pays to keep them protected. Ecostore’s Beeswax Lip-Balm blends natural beeswax and sweet almond oil to deeply hydrate and nourish lips right when they need it the most.
04. The Moisturiser
While it’s important to find a cream that replenishes moisture and helps restore skin’s natural barrier, it’s especially essential that you find a daytime moisturiser with UVA protection in order to prevent new damage, too. Emma Lewisham’s Skin Shield Take On The Day Crème with SPF30 and UVA/ UVB, pollution and blue light protection is a multi-shield formula to dramatically slow down the visible signs of ageing.
05. The Face Mask
There’s an array of face masks on the market that are capable of deeply hydrating the skin, but none are as lightweight as Noble Panacea’s The Exceptional Chronobiology Sleep Mask. Ideal for those humid evenings, when the last thing you want is a heavy product on your face, this treatment uses its highly concentrated formula to restore moisture levels, strengthen the skin’s barrier function and reduce irritation all while allowing your skin to breathe freely and comfortably.
06. The Serum
In a bid to protect against environmental stressors, especially the damage caused by the sun, it’s important to invest in a quality Vitamin C Serum. Codage’s No.3 serum, available from East Day Spa and Spring Store, is especially formulated to detoxify and restore brightness to lacklustre skin dulled by the elements.
07. The Night-Cream
A quality night cream is a year-round necessity, but during summer it pays to amp up protection against dehydration and damage from the climate. The Superdefence Night Recovery Moisturiser from Clinique focuses on strengthening the barrier to diffuse environmental aggressors, all while spurring on cellular recovery come sundown.
08. The Sunblock
What should be a summertime no-brainer is still often overlooked by many, in order to keep skin fully protected against future damage sunscreen is an absolute must — whether you plan on being in the sun or not. SPF infused moisturisers, primers and oils are ideal for those days spent mainly in the office, but for those containing longer sun exposure we recommend Skincycles DNA Defence Sun Shieldwith SPF100+.
While we’ve all just had a wonderful summer break, the effects of sun, saltwater, sand, sunscreen, makeup and other happy hallmarks of holidays well-spent can wreak havoc on the skin. This means that now is the perfect time to book in with the experts at East Day Spa to ensure that your skin is looking ship shape for the year ahead.
At this inner city sanctuary of calm, the East Day Spa team offers a raft of treatments designed to address any and all concerns, where each practitioner can tailor their approach according to what one’s skin might need. From deeply rehydrating products to rigorous gua sha techniques to micro-needling and more, there is something here to suit everyone.
All that said, East Day Spa’s newest treatment, the Codage Paris Deep Pore Cleansing Facial, is one that we find hard to pass up. Here, the spa’s expert facialists will lather your skin in luxurious serums from Codage Paris before harnessing magnetic pulse therapy by using the celebrity-endorsed Facify wand to smooth your lines and help activate lymphatic drainage. After this, a warming compression treatment and a blissful scalp massage will be applied to leave you feeling revitalised and entirely renewed.
So, if you’re looking for a facial that will give your skin a fresh start for the year ahead, one that will rid your pores of imperfections while simultaneously giving it a boost of hydration, this is the treatment for you. Book now and give your skin some of the post-holiday care it’s been craving.
Forget flowing caftans and laid-back linen, this summer, adopt a more active style with sleek, sporty pieces that marry athleisure with beachwear in a cool, sporty hybrid. Whether you’re taking the boat out for a day of adventure, or are setting out for the nearest beach, these essentials will have you ready to spring into action. Shop our summer style edit now.
Left wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Lemon Twist, back wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Mint Julep & the floor is finished in Resene Colorwood Bark
art direction — Amber Armitage/ Marigold Photography — Wendy Fenwick/ Flash Studios
Making an unexpected comeback in our most design-led spaces, yellow is trending again and is inspiring us to let the light in. Here we consult the experts at Resene to understand how to do the trend justice.
Left: wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Mint Julep
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, one colour is staging an unexpected comeback, and it’s set to make our homes feel decidedly suitable for the season ahead. We’re talking, of course, about yellow, the sun-kissed hue reminiscent of warm rays and optimism. This colour brings with it an air of positivity and happiness and now, versions of it seem to be making their way back into the homes of discerning design-lovers who want to cultivate something different in their spaces. As always, any dramatic decisions pertaining to colour are always best made after consulting the experts at Resene, who offer a vast array of yellow hues which can be tailored perfectly to suit any kind of space.
From the subtle appeal of tones like Resene’s Sidecar and Popcorn, perfect for those seeking warmth and colour albeit in a more understated way, to brighter options like Resene’s Half Moonbeam and Melting Moment, offering unmistakably vibrant and lemon-like colours that will lift the vibe of a space, there is a veritable spectrum available for those wanting to dabble in yellow as their next interior hero, with Resene serving up the perfect shades for every aesthetic vision.
Arch painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Yuma
So why not prepare for the sunshine of the season ahead by inviting its warm tones inside? If you don’t quite know where to start, call on Resene’s experts. Not only will they help you tailor your palette to find the ideal yellow hue, but their expertise will see you transform your home into a masterpiece.
If you (like us) want to start your 2024 off in a strong sartorial style, look no further than Faradays‘ exquisite offering. The luxurious Parnell department store, known for its line-up of sought-after labels like Celine, Alaïa, Loewe and more, continues to welcome a raft of new pieces, and we are simply chomping at the bit to add them to our wardrobes.
For those looking to shake their style up this year, or for anyone who wants to start investing in forever pieces that promise serious staying power, we have rounded up a selection of our most wanted pieces, available to shop at Faradays right now.
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