Planning a home renovation or build? Connect with the industry’s best designers, architects, builders, suppliers and more at this exclusive event

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.

archipro.co.nz

Design

The house where the light moves and the architecture holds its place
Salone del Mobile 2026: How Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci & Moncler redefined fashion’s role at Milan Design Week
The dining chair that earns its place at the table
Gucci, Fall 2024 Ready-To-Wear Show

Fresh off the runways of Milan Fashion Week — our favourite ready-to-wear looks from Fall 2024

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.

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Gucci

Shop Gucci

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Versace

Shop Versace

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Jil Sander

Shop Jil Sander

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Bottega Veneta

Shop Bottega Veneta

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Fendi

Shop Fendi

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Prada

Shop Prada

Coveted

Swarovski’s Millenia collection brings warm topaz tones and octagon-cut crystals to everyday jewellery
Arc’teryx is opening its First New Zealand store at Commercial Bay
Style Icon: Viky Rader
Ricotta Gnudi

After its sudden closure last year, Cotto has reopened as ‘Otto’, with passionate new owners at the helm

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.

Gastronomy

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Masu, SkyCity

Heading out on a Monday? Here’s where to dine in Auckland

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.

Monday Night Dining
Editors’ Picks

SkyCity
Metita

Auckland CBD
Gilt Brasserie

Monday Night Dining
The Best Of The Rest

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

Gastronomy

Goldie’s Bar & Yard brings Southern spirit, live music & line dancing to Takapuna 
The Commercial Bay Happy Hour guide: Six places worth staying late for
A winter favourite returns with Jervois Steak House’s Sunday Roast Lunch
0414 Armchair and Gong Coffee Table by Gallotti&Radice from ECC

Touchpoint: Infuse interiors with depth and dimension this season by bringing this trend into your home

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.   

Persona Stockholm restaurant by Erik Bratsberg
Pukka armchair from Ligne Roset
Apparatus Talisman loop sconce from ECC
The Rug Company Sonic Spruce rug from Design Central
Tobias coffee table from Design Central
Casius floor lamp from Design Central
B&B Italia Tortello sofa from Matisse
Cto Lighting Array Opal Extended Pendant from ECC
Studio Klass San Stool from Ligne Roset
Constance Frapolli Fergus Throw from Ligne Roset
Moroso Pacific Sofa from Matisse
Zeus and Teti Side Table from Studio Italia
Hepworth Wall Light from ECC
ClassiCon Bell Side Table from Matisse
Assouline Jeanneret Chandigarh from Ligne Roset
Riva 1920 Speed from Matisse

Design

The house where the light moves and the architecture holds its place
Salone del Mobile 2026: How Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci & Moncler redefined fashion’s role at Milan Design Week
The dining chair that earns its place at the table

Need some interior inspo? We take you inside an exquisite Notting Hill townhouse by Banda Design

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.

Get The Look


Audo Copenhagen
Candle Holder from Dawson & Co.
Moroso Getlucky Armchair from Matisse
Alinea Angelo Coffee Table from Studio Italia
Giorgetti Rea Bed from ECC
Timothy Oulton Puzo Sconce from Dawson & Co.
Soho Home Copper Mirror from Design Central
Stories of Italy Karkade Flute Set from Faradays
Weave Alberto Cushion from Dawson & Co.
Soho Home Oxley Coffee Table from Design Central
Soho Home Ina Wall Light from Design Central
Dax Candleholder from Father Rabbit
Moooi Aldoram Sofa from ECC
Minotti Linha Studio Desk from ECC
Casamania La-Dina Chair from Matisse
Sambonet Elite Wine Cooler from The Studio of Tableware
PENT Luxury Boxing Gloves from Ssense
Mater Accent Side Table from ECC
Noblesse Old Fashion Tumbler Set from The Studio of Tableware
Pablo Picasso the Impossible Collection from Ligne Roset

Design

The house where the light moves and the architecture holds its place
Salone del Mobile 2026: How Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci & Moncler redefined fashion’s role at Milan Design Week
The dining chair that earns its place at the table

Make the most of fresh summer flavours with this vibrant, umami ceviche recipe

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.

Gastronomy

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Meet The Emerald — a lush, new restaurant and bar in Epsom you need to try

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.

Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday, 12pm until late

The Emerald

581 Manukau Road,
Auckland

09 624 0363

www.theemerald.co.nz

Gastronomy

Goldie’s Bar & Yard brings Southern spirit, live music & line dancing to Takapuna 
The Commercial Bay Happy Hour guide: Six places worth staying late for
A winter favourite returns with Jervois Steak House’s Sunday Roast Lunch

Timeless not trendy, monochrome is chic in every situation — shop our edit of black & white pieces now

In a cool reimagining of traditional black and white, modern monochrome calls for a bold approach. Here, while the palette is simple, it certainly doesn’t have to be boring. From geometric prints, to chic monograms; graphic detailing to glamorous touches, we have rounded up an edit of our favourite monochromatic pieces to shop now.

Shop The Edit
Monochrome Mania
AlaÏa skater skirt from Faradays
HORSEBIT 1955 BAG from Gucci
Bubble Damier XXL Detail Dress from Louis Vuitton
Valentino ROCKSTUD CALFSKIN PUMPS from net-a-porter
GG WOOL BOUCLÉ JACQUARD TOP from Gucci
BOTTEGA VENETA Cha-Cha mules from Net-A-Porter
Jacquemus Draped Ribbed-Knit Top from Moda Operandi
Christopher Esber
Racquet Apex Blazer from Muse
Lady dior bag from Christian Dior
Anine Bing Aiden Shirt from Muse
Brushed leather lace-up shoes from Prada
Saint Laurent JACKET IN
WOOL GABARDINE from Mytheresa
Majorelle Bodysuit from Camilla and Marc
Harris Tapper Sherman Trouser from Muse
Pico Looping Bag from Louis Vuitton
Resort Dress from St. Agni
Christopher Esber
Minette Flat from Muse
Alto Halter Dress from Camilla and Marc
LOEWE Classic Anagram T-Shirt from Faradays
Backstage Hair Clip from Louis Vuitton
3D Monogram Pajama Pants from Louis Vuitton
Gucci Mask-Frame Sunglasses from Moda Operandi
Bow Detail Pleated Wrap Skirt from Louis Vuitton
LOEWE Ease Sandals from Faradays

Coveted

Swarovski’s Millenia collection brings warm topaz tones and octagon-cut crystals to everyday jewellery
Arc’teryx is opening its First New Zealand store at Commercial Bay
Style Icon: Viky Rader
Amano

Denizen’s definitive guide to Auckland’s best bakeries

Whether you’re in need of a celebratory sweet centrepiece, a delectable lunch, or simply require a little treat to get your morning off to the perfect start, the following bakeries are making a name for themselves in the pastry, bread and cake department. But, don’t take our word for it, this is the time to conduct some of your own ‘research’.

Best Bakeries in Town
Editors’ Picks

Amano Bakery Baked Goods
Britomart
Amano Bakery

Atelier Shu sweet treats
Parnell
Atelier Shu

Wild Wheat bread
Various Locations
Wild Wheat

Best Bakeries in Town
The Best Of The Rest

Baked @ Devonport, Devonport

Bread & Butter, Grey Lynn

Busy Oven Bakery, Ponsonby

Copain, Ponsonby

Diehl’s Bakery, Glenfield

Dusty’s Depot, St Johns

Fã Artisan Bake, Silverdale

Fort Greene, K’Road

Just Jess Boujee Bakery, Huapai

Kneads All Day, Hobsonville

La Voie Francaise, Mt Roskill

Little French Cafe, Mt Eden & Point Chevalier

Little & Friday, Ponsonby & Newmarket

Manis, Ponsonby

Small Mercies, Mt Eden

Tart Bakery, Various Locations

The Baker’s Cottage, Kingsland

The Real Bread Project, Helensville

The Store, Britomart

Vaniyé Patisserie, Parnell

Wheatz Bakery, Auckland CBD

Gastronomy

Goldie’s Bar & Yard brings Southern spirit, live music & line dancing to Takapuna 
The Commercial Bay Happy Hour guide: Six places worth staying late for
A winter favourite returns with Jervois Steak House’s Sunday Roast Lunch