Offering a sophisticated slant on sexy, the thigh-high boot has undergone a chic reimagining this season, with a variety of iterations causing us to adopt a more daring look this winter. Whether worn with a cheeky mini skirt or dress, or layered unnderneath some shorts, these boots are staking their claim as the style of the season — versatile, elegant and bold.
The notion of home comforts evokes a different feeling in each of us. For many, it’s evenings spent by a fireplace or memories of cosy days at home, or simply a sense of belonging that warms the soul like nothing else. At this Amsterdam address, home comforts take on a new meaning, where laid-back living is given a plush reimagining, that is both luxurious and perennially cool, and taps into the vibe of the city.
A project by Framework Studio, Residence 606 has undergone an extensive renovation that marries an old world sensibility (thanks to its brick facade and white, timber-framed windows) with a distinctly modern finish. Inside, open-plan-living has been intentionally eschewed in favour of a series of more intimate, purposeful spaces, each designed to provide different moods and moments throughout the day. From the cosy sitting room to the larger living to the timber-walled office, this residence offers as many spaces in which to enjoy private moments as it does areas for family to come together, which makes it the perfect place to retreat from daily life and rediscover a sense of zen.
Colours are used liberally throughout, albeit in muted tones, and plush upholstery is ever-present. With soft carpets and velvet furnishings, every space oozes comfort and ease of living. There is a considered use of full curtains, thick enough to retain warmth but not so dense as to block out the light completely. It’s the kind of home where you would slip your shoes off at the door and settle by the fire in the company of a good book. Boasting a fireplace that is subtle but no less welcoming; the use of contrasting stone and timber walls still ensures it is a feature of the living space while remaining practical and unobtrusive. It is the use of these different, warm, woody tones throughout the home that keep white walls from appearing too cold or clinical — a clever use of contrast by the designers.
In the kitchen, perhaps, is where the design dichotomy at play here is most obvious, where cutting edge Gaggenau appliances and modern furnishings like Gallotti&Radice’s 0419 stools fit seamlessly into a space that oozes old-world luxury. Here, undulating marble countertops set the tone of the room, reflected in the speakeasy-inspired breakfast nook that lends a relaxed edge. Natural light flows through the kitchen’s adjacent glass doors that open out onto a tiled terrace surrounded by gardens, in which an eye-catching stone table promises the perfect setting for any alfresco dinner.
Running through the centre of the home, the staircase offers a neutral zone where carpeted stairs connect marble landings that lead from the common areas to the private spaces upstairs. In the nursery, a colourful, whimsical palette creates the perfect area for little ones, while exposed beams and sloped ceilings harken to more historic architectural tropes. The master is a meticulously laid-out suite which moves from bedroom to study nook to sleek, walk-in wardrobe, with all spaces perfectly finished with dark timber accents, a pared-back palette and exquisite parquet floors.
Ultimately, what makes Residence 606 so appealing is the way in which comfort has been considered in every aspect — from layout to materials to specific furnishings. And in a world dominated by glass and concrete, allowing space for a little softness and intimacy is a refreshing shift.
More often than not, the food on our plate informs the drink we have alongside it. Whether that’s a crisp glass of white with fresh fish or a cold beer to wash down a burger. Yet rarely do we see the food on offer responding to our drink of choice… Which is why we’re so excited for this upcoming dinner at one of the city’s most exquisite restaurants.
At the beginning of next month, Jervois Road fine dining institute, Paris Butter, will play host to Andrea Marseglia and Sarah Mitchell from Napier’s renowned cockatil bar, Teresa, for a cocktail-centric dinner. Despite serving some of the most inspired tipples in the country, Teresa has remained somewhat under the radar until recently, only known by locals and those in the know seeking inspiration. Now, the cocktail bar is quickly gaining notoriety and was recently nominated as one of the Top 10 New International Cocktail Bars by Tales of the Cocktail.
So in forging an entanglement between food and beverage, it made sense for Paris Butter to team up with these rising cocktail stars to create a one-night-only four-course cocktail dinner experience of epic proportions. Diners can expect to see the level of execution typically delivered by the Paris Butter kitchen, with dishes that respond to the produce of the day, finished with a little culinary creativity from the incredibly talented chefs. And, of course, the cocktails promise to be nothing short of marvellous.
Dinner on Tuesday the 9th of August is now sold out but luckily for you, they have added an extra night, Wednesday the 10th of August. The set menu will be $160 a head for four courses plus matching cocktails. Reservations are essential and are available now.
Much to my great delight, this Sunday is International Self Care Day, and you best believe that I will be spending every moment indulging in the name of this great holiday and treating my body to the love and care it desperately deserves (and is craving) right now.
If self-care is a new concept for you or something that you’ve forgotten to embrace of late, here’s a little inspiration. Self care is at the core of Spring Spa’s ethos, so in my experience, it’s the perfect place to mark the occasion. These three treatments are the ideal starting point, and a great way to while away these rainy days in my eyes. (If you’re feeling exceedingly indulgent, treat yourself to all three.)
LED Light Treatment
Amid new and innovative techniques, LED is a treatment I will often return to time and time again, as it genuinely, noticeably works. For those new to light treatments, the concentrated waves found in UV have abundant healing properties, determined by the colour used — each addressing a specific skin concern. Red light, for instance, has been proven incredibly effective in anti-aging, and blue light is known to break down acne-causing bacteria for noticeable results. And on top of the healing prowess, a session under warm light is ultimately so relaxing and rejuvenating.
Balinese Massage
While many of our friends are once again venturing to the beautiful tropical paradise of Bali for holidays, and we’re left watching from rainy home, there is a little Balinese paradise to be found in Auckland too. Spring Spa’s Balinese Massage is a return to the spa’s roots, where therapists embrace traditional Indonesian healing rituals for 60- or 90-minutes of complete, utter bliss. This massage style relaxes tension areas using long flowing strokes and pressure point therapy, leaving you limber and considerably less tense, but the experience is a comfortable, enjoyable one.
Emma Lewisham Regenerative Facial
Shining a light on considered skincare, this Emma Lewisham facial is the first 100% clean and natural treatment on offer, designed to nourish the skin’s microbiome at every level. This 60-minute treatment delivers high doses of vitamin C, antioxidants, and gentle vitamin A, making good on its promise of addressing pigmentation and restoring the glow and even tone of your complexion. When we consider self-care, this is just what it should feel like.
When Bar Magda opened the doors to its Cross Street basement restaurant, we weren’t sure what to expect. But reimagined into one of the city’s best dining destinations, courtesy of Carlo Buenaventura’s tasteful vision, it is a place that has become one of our weekly go-tos, which is why were were understandably excited to hear about the arrival of its delicious new menu.
Offering dishes that are still grounded in Buenaventura’s roots — a considered and elevated take on classic Filipino foods — this seasonal overhaul offers a refreshing take on the freshest, local produce. From rich, interesting flavours to unique takes on classic dishes, Bar Magda’s new menu proves why this inner-city spot has become so popular.
So, when you next visit (and trust me, you should do so soon), be sure to order one of these utterly delicious dishes with a side of anything else that takes your fancy.
Barbecue octopus with almond satti, preserved kohlrabi and whipped duck fat
Perhaps the most divine dish on the menu, this Filipino take on octopus is refined yet authentic. Served hot and fresh, the almost vinegary preserved kohlrabi clashes perfectly with the almond satti — a sauce related to the Indonesian satay, yet distinct in its taste and presentation. Let this dish be your introduction to the greatness that follows.
Braised beef short rib with sauce Paitum and roti
If Bar Magda is known for one thing, it is its inspired execution of simplicity. The braised beef short rib is the most outstanding example of this, so tender and practically falling off the bone and topped with a sauce that only heightens the natural flavours. Of course, a healthy side of flaky roti is needed to mop up any extra.
Purple kumara with clover honey soy, goats cheese and Szechuan pickled beetroot
Served cold, this dish pays homage to childhood memories with a subtle Filipino take. A classic combination of honey and soy meets a sweeter honey and goat’s cheese, paired with gorgeous seasonal root vegetables. It is a side that could easily be flavoursome enough for a main, and it is one that you shouldn’t go without.
Opening hours:
Monday — Saturday, 5pm until late.
If you have idle hands this winter and an abundance of beet greens, or want to create a meal the whole family can participate in, look no further than Pici’s Orecchiette with silverbeet, chilli, garlic and anchovies. The popular K’ Road Italian eatery — pronounced pea-chee — has shared its simply delicious seasonal recipe, which is made in two parts. The most important, the hand-made orecchiette, is a ‘piccolo’ pasta that’s name means ‘little ear’ in its native tongue. And, we can attest, it’s oddly satisfying rolling these tasty morsels into shape. Practice makes perfect, and there is a video on Pici’s Instagram highlight reels to show you the technique for the recipe below.
Orecchiette with Silverbeet, Chilli, Garlic & Anchovies Recipe
Ingredients:
Orecchiette
500g semolina
250ml hot water
Pasta sauce
130 ml extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp chilli flakes
7 garlic cloves, finely sliced
3 anchovies
1 large bunch of silverbeet, roughly chopped
1 lemon
Salt, to taste
Method:
Part one: Make the orecchiette
1. Pour semolina on a flat surface and make a well in the centre.
2. Slowly add water a little at a time while mixing together.
3. Once combined, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and firm.
4. Wrap in a reusable plastic bag and rest for 1 hour.
5. After the dough has rested, slice and roll into cylinders. Then cut the cylinders into even, small sections.
6. Now to make the pasta shape. Take one piece and hold the knife at a 45-degree angle to your workbench and press and roll to make the shape of a small ear.
7. It will take a few to get the hang of it and it might be ugly, but that’s okay! Keep practising.
8. Sprinkle your orecchiette with semolina and set aside.
Part two: Silverbeet, chilli, garlic sauce
1. In a cold pan add your extra virgin olive oil, chilli flakes and sliced garlic.
2. Cook on low-to-medium heat until garlic is golden. Keep stirring and do not burn.
3. Once garlic is golden add a splash of water and the anchovies. Cook and stir in until dissolved then set aside.
4. Bring a large pot of water to the boil.
5. Season with salt to taste. (Very important.)
6. Boil silverbeet for 4 minutes then place in the pan with the garlic mixure.
7. Add orecchiette to the pot of boiling water and stir. (Use the same water you cooked the silverbeet in.)
8. Wait for them to float and then cook for a further 2 minutes.
9. Scoop out the orecchiette and add into the silverbeet pan with half a cup of the pasta water.
10. Bring to the boil while stirring and reduce to your preferred sauce thickness.
11. Taste and season with lemon and salt.
12. Plate and enjoy!
Pici Tip: If you’ve never made orecchiette before, it might take 5, 10 or even 20 times to get the hang of it. Our advice is to take your time, enjoy the process and do what feels right to you.
Honestly, there is never a better time to head to the movies than winter. It’s a chance to shake obligations to laborious occasions in favour of cosy nights spent with a bucket of popcorn, losing yourself in the comfort and novelty of it all. In anticipation of the New Zealand International Film Festival arriving in Auckland later this month, we’ve been getting ourselves all kinds of excited for the movies — and we think you should too.
This year, the impressive programme returns to the big screen for the first time since pre-pandemic, and the 74–title strong line-up definitely makes up for lost time. Living up to its reputation as the country’s premiere film festival, it brings titles direct from Cannes, Sundance and other major festivals, allowing New Zealand audiences access to some of the most talk-about films in the world right now.
While we would truly love to go to every film, we recognise that it’s not feasible for most, so we’ve taken the time to go through the progremme and present the titles of 2022 that we think simply cannot be missed.
Aftersun by Charlotte Wells
Should you find yourself with a sense of déjà vu, it is likely because of Normal People’s Paul Mezcal’s inimitable talents gracing your screen once more. Aftersun is an evocative 90s story that explores the notions of nostalgia and tenderness. Dancing on the relationship between father and daughter, the emotional narrative depicts the reality of post-divorce parenting for many. Through a collation of flashbacks, home videos and memories, it shows how important moments in our lives play out to the inevitable end.
Close by Lukas Dhont
After coming home with the Cannes 2022 Grand Prix award (shared with Stars at Noon), the Lukas Dhont memoir-inspired film is a firm frontrunner in our eyes. Deeply reminiscent of the friendships of yesteryear, the director considers the fragility of teenage bonds and how they may translate to the outside world. Close is the result of honest direction and spectacular performance, in a film that reaches out to lonely hearts.
Gloriavale by Fergus Grady & Noel Smyth
One of our country’s greatest fascinations is that of Gloriavale. Just how this ‘community’ came to such prominence on the outskirts of the West Coast and its role in our collective understanding of cults and Christianity poses more questions than answers. Yet in this documentary, premiering at this year’s NZIFF, Gloriavale gets the close-up that it desperately needs, thanks to the determined vision of Noel Smyth and Fergus Grady, who follow a surviving family as they re-pave their way into South Island society.
Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, a Journey, a Song by Dan Geller & Dayna Goldfine
Perhaps the most iconic tale of rejection is Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah’; a song initially rejected from an album that, against all odds, became one of the most famous songs in the world. That ‘Hallelujah’ was inextricably linked with the story of Cohen’s life is explored in this film that dives into the artist’s legacy in a beautiful, compelling and emotional piece of work.
A House Made Of Splinters by Simon Lereng Wilmont
A confronting reality for Ukrainians, yet one we feel somewhat removed from in our safe corner of the world, Simon Lereng Wilmont’s Sundance award-winning documentary is an intimate and gut-wrenching observation of children housed in a refuge. Filmed in pre-war Ukraine, what we now know about the tragedy consuming this part of the world makes the tale all the more confronting, but all the more essential.
Stars At Noon by Claire Denis
In perhaps the most realistic interpretation of Pretty Woman, the second winner of Cannes’ Grand Prix has been described as a ‘slow-motion erotic thriller’. The film features the rising talents of Margaret Qualley and Conversations With Friends’ Joe Alwyn, where Qualley’s Trish, a journalist moonlighting as a sex worker stranded in Nicaragua, provides one of the most addictive and confronting performances we’ve been promised in some time.
New Zealand International Film Festival’s Auckland dates run from Thursday the 28th of July until Sunday the 7th of August. More locations throughout the country, dates and the full programme can be found online.
It might surprise you to hear that there is no universal standard when it comes to the right shade of white to use in your home. In fact, it takes a trained eye and a honed sensibility to execute white walls and finishes that don’t make a space feel cold or uninviting. Here, the experts at Shelley Ferguson Studio have used a light neutral palette of Resene Blanc on the walls, ceilings and fixtures of this home, transforming it into a sophisticated sanctuary for its busy owners, and creating a warm, textural quality in the process.
Wanting to avoid bright white tones, the designers utilised different strengths of Resene Blanc to imbue softness instead and showcase the home’s special materiality. Rockcote plaster in Resene Blanc was used to achieve a cohesive look and built-in lacquered cabinetry was treated to coats of Resene Half Blanc, while Resene Blanc was also used on the dining area bar to match the room’s moodier vibe.
Elsewhere, Resene Quarter Blanc was used on the ceilings, walls and trims to minimise the number of hard lines throughout the home and achieve a seamless finish. The same neutral tone was also used on all the doors and frames, with finishes altered for practicality. (Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen on the walls, Resene SpaceCote Flat on the ceilings and easy-to-clean Resene Lustacryl semi-gloss on the architraves, doors and window frames).
Even the bathrooms were made to tie in tonally with the living spaces, where Resene Kitchen & Bathroom paint in Resene Quarter Blanc ensured a consistent aesthetic.
A masterclass in how neutrals can be deployed in different ways, Shelley Ferguson Studio’s clever use of this versatile Resene palette has resulted in a calm, chic home that offers an escape from the busyness of everyday life and proves the power of considered colour.
Diamonds might be forever, but nothing feels as personal or as eye-catching as a coloured stone. Promising to add depth and dimension to any precious jewellery collection, coloured stones are finding favour with collectors seeking some pizzazz from their most special pieces, and nowhere does them quite like Sutcliffe Jewellery.
Whether your tastes lie with an eye-catching emerald or with something more along the lines of a ruby or an aquamarine, Sutcliffe Jewellery offers a variety of beautifully-designed, unique pieces in a wide range of stones and configurations. (Hardly surprising given its reputation for offering some of the highest-quality gems and most sought-after craftsmanship in Auckland.) Recognising the power of a coloured stone, Sutcliffe’s range proves how opting for bold tones will deliver personality to your jewllery collection and ensure that every piece you buy is truly a reflection of you.
So, the next time you think about investing in a new piece, be it a pair of earrings, a stunning pendant or a cocktail ring, consider a visit to Sutcliffe. There, you will be able to peruse the comprehensive collections or speak to one of the experts about creating something bespoke. Whatever your taste, it’s time to swap out straight diamonds for something a little more fun.
Restraint is often a word used lightly in the design sphere, but it is a concept exemplified in House Fin — a family home designed with longevity in mind. The clients, a young, growing family, wanted a house that would ebb, flow and ultimately evolve with their needs while still retaining the core of the building’s Edwardian history, in sync with other 1900s homes in the neighbourhood. The result brings a new sense and purpose to the existing family home.
Set in Melbourne’s southeast, House Fin’s renovation feels subtle at first glance, but look a little closer and you’ll see how the intricacies of this build are worthy of attention. In reality, the scale of work undertaken by CJH Studio was mighty, with a whole new floor plan created that harnessed the beauty of the historic architecture while adding contemporary details and necessary cohesiveness.
Larger rooms were created, ensuites added, and a range of storage spaces included to maximise the space already on offer. For the designers, the aim of the renovation was to create a blank space of sorts that could be altered to suit the growing family for which it was intended. Here, trends are only lightly considered and neutral hues favoured, allowing both art and furniture to speak to the space’s personality, and a sense of timelessness to prevail.
Much of the architecture pays homage to the history of the address, right down to the ornate fireplace and hearth. Curvature is considered but adds a decidedly modern twist (where spaces call for it), such as in closets and on counter-tops or the way in which vertical tiles have been wrapped elegantly around the master bathtub. We see this motif repeated in furnishings too, from a bulbous sofa to rounded light fixtures and wall sconces throughout, as well as the arched doorways that connect the spaces of the home.
It is in its simplicity that the beauty of House Fin is found. With light-flooded rooms and just enough curtains to filter the outside world, it becomes a space where one could spend one’s days quite easily. There would be almost an element of hygge because of the home’s cosy nature, if only hygge were refined and chic. After all, when raising a new family in a home, comfort is as essential as elevated design, and perfection is found when both are brought into harmony. Most importantly, House Fin is a space that feels completely and utterly liveable, until the next iteration of the address inevitably takes shape.
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