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Home Decorating 101
24 lush interiors that prove green is the new millennial grey

24 lush interiors that prove green is the new millennial grey

From neutral and understated to bright and bold, these ideas will make you feel confident about using a green colour palette in your home Move over millennial grey, there’s a new colour in town. We recently asked our audience on Instagram if you could only use one colour in your home, which would it be?  […]
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Colorful Christmas ornaments: fries, kiwi, glitter ball, lobster, glass orb, sewing machine, against pastel background.

These 14 quirky Christmas decorations will add definite charm to your tree

Up the quirk factor with decorations that surprise and delight. Up the quirk factor with decorations that surprise and delight. From sparkly fish to sugar-coated donuts, nothing is off limits Left to right: Home of Christmas glass chips in red and white, $11.99, from Farmers. Glass effect dark aqua bauble, $9.99, from Adairs. Kiwifruit vintage […]
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Home decor items: floral towels, pink lamp, wave candles, lilac locker, pink cushion, and blue juicer on pastel background.

12 pretty pastel homewares to satisfy your interior sweet tooth

Playful and pretty, life is sweet with some pastel hues Colour is coming back into interiors, but it’s the soft, sweet kind. Pastels are hitting the stores and we’ve shopped the must-have pieces so you don’t have to. Take a look at these sweet pastel-coloured homewares below: Clockwise from top left: Home Republic hand towel […]
Stylish living room with abstract art, decorative vases, and cozy pink seating against patterned wallpaper.

How to organise and hide cords and chargers for a style-forward interior

Interior designer, James Treble, shares his tips to help you control the clutter of connectivity We live in exciting times with the latest of technology at our fingertips, but most of these amazing gadgets also come with wires, chargers and storage cases. When you multiply all these by the number of members in your family, […]
Homes to Love Australia
3 colourful bedroom looks and the bedside tables to match

3 colourful bedroom looks and the bedside tables to match

Sometimes a bedside table isn’t a table at all – sometimes it’s a wall shelf or headboard ledge. Here are three looks and three bedside tables to inspire your next bedroom makeover Take some creative license with what is and isn’t a bedside table. If it’s beside your bed and functions as a stand, then […]
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Shop stylish green homewares in all shades from sage to emerald

Shop stylish green homewares in all shades from sage to emerald

Verdant hues are the apple of our eyes this season. Shop these stylish green homewares below Clockwise from top left: Home Republic Archie Eucalyptus towel range, from $19.99, from Adairs. Ambit pendant in dusty green, $499, from Bauhaus. Maggie Stephenson x Bed Threads ‘Growth’ art print, $90, from Bed Threads. Home Republic Desert Rose sage […]
Bright modern kitchen with large windows, pink rug, and a woman seated at the table near fresh flowers and fruit.

This compact home is a lesson in colour and clever styling

Interior designer Kim Stephen’s home combines her signature flair for colour with a clever use of its relatively compact spaces As it is situated in a row of brick homes, the facade of this house is almost identical to those on either side of it. Step inside the front door, however, and the uniquely colourful […]
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A pink chill-out room is our first 2021 Resene Colour Home Awards finalist

A pink chill-out room is our first 2021 Resene Colour Home Awards finalist

Previously a storage room, hand-painted daisies in candy hues have transformed this space. See why it’s our first 2021 Resene Colour Home Awards finalist After trying – and failing – to find a wallpaper that suited both her daughters’ tastes, Kirsty Young took it upon herself to create something unique for their chill-out room in […]
Bedroom with a rattan headboard, black lamp on a nightstand, and a painting of pears on the wall.

3 styling secrets that will help you prep your home for autumn

As we turn our attention indoors, this season makes us rediscover the beauty of being at home A slight drop in temperature, not immediate but still noticeable, and shorter days can mean only one thing – autumn is coming. Apart from signalling a switch up in the wardrobe department, these changes also prompt a start […]
This collector curated her home with classic designs and vintage pieces

This collector curated her home with classic designs and vintage pieces

Classic design and vintage pieces mix with intentionally provocative art in this cleverly curated family home in Aahurs, Denmark The first time Bianca Heinsvig entered this newly built house in 2014, she didn’t think much of it. But when she walked 15 steps further in and discovered the cosy atrium courtyard and beautiful view from […]
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How to use white to give your home a refresh – and not be safe or boring

How to use white to give your home a refresh – and not be safe or boring

From all-out alabaster to pops of pearl, this handy guide will help you rethink basic blanc. Here are three ways to make white work in your home The obsession with white interiors continues. Not only does white provide the ultimate backdrop to showcase personal style, it always manages to look fresh and modern and will […]
5 creative Instagram accounts that will inspire you to go bold with colour

5 creative Instagram accounts that will inspire you to go bold with colour

Add some bright and bold inspo to your Instagram feed with this fearless collection of creatives who our team is loving right now In a sea of creamy palettes and dreamy interiors every so often you need some loud, clashing colours to punch through the tranquility and make a statement. To get you started on […]
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3 simple ways to style your bed linen like an interior pro

3 simple ways to style your bed linen like an interior pro

These three simple ideas will help you give your bed a magazine-worthy makeover. Here’s how to style the ultimate space with Your Home and Garden bedlinen, available exclusively at Farmers The quickest and easiest way to give your bedroom a refresh is to switch up your bed linen. Whether you’re looking for a style to […]
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20 simple Christmas craft ideas to try this festive season

20 simple Christmas craft ideas to try this festive season

Give your Christmas a handcrafted touch (and save yourself some dollars) with these gorgeous little projects 1. Bell garland Don’t keep bells and other baubles just for the tree. Thread them onto a piece of twine or string and tie a knot to hold them in place. What we used: White porcelain tree, $34.90, sage […]
How to create 3 contemporary and colourful looks inspired by India

How to create 3 contemporary and colourful looks inspired by India

Borrow from India’s rich decor traditions with touches of spice, carved wood and engraved metal – or for a cool, contemporary treatment, use a single intricate motif for a subtle accent Old coffee house 1. Celebrate the beauty of your morning Chai (or coffee) routine by creating a personalised space to enjoy each day. 2. […]
These expert tips will give you the confidence to paint your walls blue

These expert tips will give you the confidence to paint your walls blue

Take your winter colour palette cues from centuries past, bringing deep yet comforting blue-based shades into your cosiest living spaces Blue is associated with calm and tranquility, as well as healing and health. For this reason, transform your walls with this palette in areas you spend your downtime, such as your living room or bedroom. […]
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14 of the hottest homeware trends you need to know about in 2019

14 of the hottest homeware trends you need to know about in 2019

In our annual homeware trends report, the YH&G team select the colours, finishes, materials and feelings that we think will be big this year. Dive in and see if you agree 1. Destination styling: Joshua tree This year, we’ve left Palm Springs behind and are driving east to Joshua Tree, where cacti grow wild and the […]
An essential 5-step guide to creating a stylish all-white interior

An essential 5-step guide to creating a stylish all-white interior

Living in a clean, serene, white interior is a dream for many. Make this look work for you with our five-step guide 1. Choose your white Grey (cool) whites. Pale grey can seem a little cold for interiors but, with the right warm or bright accessories, it looks sensational. Try it in a bedroom or living […]
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This subtle paint palette will give you the confidence to add colour to your home

This subtle paint palette will give you the confidence to add colour to your home

Dulux’s summer palette is filled with gentle, nurturing colours that even the colour-phobes will want to give a go This subtle paint palette will give you the confidence to add colour to your home There’s a no-mans land in the colour world. It’s here you’ll find those who can’t stand the idea of opting for […]
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10 of the best DIY decorating ideas to make your Christmas feel personal

10 of the best DIY decorating ideas to make your Christmas feel personal

We’ve carefully selected  a range of our favourite DIY Christmas decorations to transform any style of home 1. Block-colour baubles Paint inexpensive polystyrene balls into simple, eye-catching decorations. (We used Resene testpots in ‘Laurel’, ‘Tasman’, ‘Half Forest Green’, ‘Celtic’ and ‘Spanish Green’). Stick a long skewer into them so they are easy to hold while […]
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The Block NZ co-host Shelley Ferguson’s top 5 tips for townhouse styling

The Block NZ co-host Shelley Ferguson’s top 5 tips for townhouse styling

Having spent a fair bit of time at The Block NZ Hobsonville townhouses this year, co-host Shelley Ferguson has some top tips on how to style these high-density homes Shelley’s top 5 tips for townhouse styling Townhouses often have multiple storeys with elongated floor layouts. To make the space feel expansive it helps to use […]
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How to create a stylish dining area: 10 designers share their secrets

How to create a stylish dining area: 10 designers share their secrets

Whether you have open plan living or a specific dining room, these creative ideas from the best in the interior-business are sure to add a stylish spin to your space How to create a stylish dining area: 10 designers share their secrets 1. Team cool outdoor chairs with an indoor table  Designer secret:  Remember to consider […]
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Easy ways to bring Scandi style into your home

Easy ways to bring Scandi style into your home

A Scandi approach – quiet colours, clean, simple design and lots of texture – puts the spotlight on carefully chosen pieces Who lives here? Adam Bannister (teacher), Dawn Bannister (mental health manager and home-design Instagrammer As Eliza Slept), Ollie and Eliza. Scandi style tips Light is the most important factor in a Scandi-style home. If your […]
How to style a space inspired by the Californian desert

How to style a space inspired by the Californian desert

Close your eyes and feel the warm desert breeze on your face, Alex Walls shows us how to create a Palm Springs-inspired chill-out zone How to style a space inspired by the Californian desert This room reveal is all about relaxation and features perhaps the most casual styling I’ve ever done. Inspired by the ‘Palm […]
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6 ways to add a personal touch to your home

6 ways to add a personal touch to your home

Adding personality to your interior is the ultimate way to make your house feel like a home. Here a six stylish tips to help you add your personal touch Make your house feel like a home with these 6 stylish tips A house is the perfect backdrop to showcase your style and personality. If your […]
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A clever renovation doubled the floor space of this tired 1980s home

A clever renovation doubled the floor space of this tired 1980s home

This West Auckland family home is set to stand the test of time thanks to its well-functioning layout and Scandi-themed interior design  In a nutshell… Who lives here?  Kelly Wright (owner and designer at The Little Interiors Co), husband Shane (construction project manager), Tyler, and Paige, plus Brocky the Jack Russell. Style secrets Don’t be […]
8 ingredients for the perfect kitchen design

8 ingredients for the perfect kitchen design

Interior design expert James Treble serves up his top 8 tips and considerations to help you create the perfect kitchen design Kitchens sell houses! It’s an old saying, and one that every real-estate agent will agree with. Whatever the size of your home, the kitchen is a room you spend heaps of time in. It’s […]
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Top staging tips: Celebrity home stager to the stars Meredith Baer

If you’ve ever sold a home you’ll know this, that first impressions count. When Hollywood’s hottest stars from Brad Pitt to Scarlett Johansen want to sell their homes the first person they call is home stager to the stars Meredith Baer. Staging your home to sell can add 20% more to your sale price, celebrity […]
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How to choose the right rug for your room according to an expert

How to choose the right rug for your room according to an expert

Rugs are often the final flourish we need to complete a room. From size to finish to style, Alex Fulton shares her tips on how to choose the right one How do I choose the right floor coverings for my kitchen and living areas? This is a common question that I get asked about in […]
Expert tips on how to choose the right colour drapery

Expert tips on how to choose the right colour drapery

Bright, bold, hushed hues or statement style, drapery is the perfect flourish to your interior look. We round up the top tips when it comes to colour Colour tips with Freedom Furniture Before choosing a colour, decide if you want the curtains to blend with your decor or make a statement. If you opt to […]
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Everything you need to know about synthetic and blended fabrics

Everything you need to know about synthetic and blended fabrics

Navigate your way through fabric options like a pro with our ultimate shopper’s guide to synthetic and blended fabrics  Polyester  A synthetic fibre derived from petroleum which can replicate any texture. Cost: $50 per metre. Best for: Cushion covers, small upholstery projects and as a durable lining for curtains. Pros: + Durable and strong + Will […]
Everything you need to know about natural fibre fabrics

Everything you need to know about natural fibre fabrics

 Wool, cotton, silk, and linen – love the idea of natural fibres but don’t know where to begin?  We’ve made a list of all the important stuff you need to know Wool Wool is a protein-based fibre that can be blended with synthetic fibres to make it easier to clean and less prone to pilling. […]
6 of our favourite fabric trends to look out for

6 of our favourite fabric trends to look out for

From vibrant velvets to muted organic linens and artisan elements, our experts share their 6 favourite fabric trends you need to know 6 of our favourite fabric trends to look out for Pantone recently unveiled ‘Greenery’ as its 2017 Colour of the Year so expect to see palettes drawn from nature being widely used in drapery […]
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Reno-guide--part-one-decisions

Renovation Guide Part 1: Decisions, Decisions!

We’ve consulted the experts for our three-part guide on how to renovate like a professional Most of us think our homes could benefit from a renovation, either modest in scale or monumental. No matter the scope, success lies in smart planning. Our three-part renovation guide will arm you with all the information you need to […]
What to expect from an interior designer

What to expect from an interior designer

Ever thought of enlisting the help of an interior designer but felt a little intimidated or confused? Homes to Love NZ sat down with three top interior designers to quiz them on the process and find out what they do, what they cost and why you need them What does an interior designer do? An interior […]
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What you need to consider to create the perfect dining room space

What you need to consider to create the perfect dining room space

Make dinnertime an anticipated event and entertain in style with these top tips for for creating the perfect dining room space What you need to consider to create the perfect dining room space Turn family meal time into an anticipated part of the day with a stylish, contemporary dining room. These tips for decorating your […]
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Does thread count matter when buying sheets?

Does thread count matter when buying sheets?

We sat down with linen expert and Wallace Cotton owner Paula Wallace to ask her about thread count, what it means and why we should care What exactly is thread count and why should we care about it? Basically, fabric is made by weaving vertical and horizontal yarns. There are a bunch of variables to […]
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Design dilemmas solved: what to do with a dark and dingy Lockwood

Design dilemmas solved: what to do with a dark and dingy Lockwood

It’s a design dilemma we hear often – what to do with a dark and dingy Lockwood interior so its original character is retained  while giving it a fresh new look. Here’s a Lockwood renovation idea that won’t break the bank! How to give your Lockwood a cosmetic update “Two words,” says interior designer Alex Fulton. “Paint […]
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6 simple style rules for creating a cohesive look in every room

6 simple style rules for creating a cohesive look in every room

Whether it’s your living room, bedroom or even just the stairwell these 6 simple rules will help you to effortlessly create a stylish, cohesive home 6 simple style rules for creating a cohesive look in every room  We all desire to live in a space that functions well and looks amazing. Let these top interior […]
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4 rules to follow when creating a room with an eclectic look

4 rules to follow when creating a room with an eclectic look

An eclectic style celebrates differences, adds colour and sparks curiosity, but achieving it means following a few rules 4 rules to follow when creating a room with an eclectic look Combining different themes, mediums and elements of design, gathered from varying sources, is a style that’s easy to love, but can be tricky to pull […]
A neutral guest bedroom is transformed into tropical kid’s room

A neutral guest bedroom is transformed into tropical kid’s room

A neutral guest bedroom is transformed into a tropical, jungle-inspired oasis for one very lucky young lady who adores her own special space A neutral guest bedroom is transformed into tropical kid’s room Mathilde, 7, is the daughter of Tina Stephen head of online interior decorating company Roomie. They moved into their new home last […]
A spectacular Epsom home is the perfect party pad

A spectacular Epsom home is the perfect party pad

With festive ducks floating in the pool and not a snowman to be seen, this home is ready for a relaxed South Pacific Christmas As one of seven kids, Alanna Haysmith knows there’s never enough room for the whole family to sit around the dining table on Christmas Day. Fortunately, her parents’ spectacular Epsom home […]
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Floral friday, peopnies, flower bouquet, Eden Hessel

Floral Fridays: How to make a bouquet like a florist

In this instalment of Floral Fridays, Eden shows us how to arrange a bouquet of pretty pink blooms and foliage, ideal for displaying in a vase or gifting to a loved one. Top bouquet-arranging tips from Eden: When creating the bouquet, start with foliage first, spiralling the stems from the centre Ensure there isn’t any foliage […]
Homes to Love
The ultimate guide to buying cushions

The ultimate guide to buying cushions

The icing on your decor cake… cushions are your design secret weapon. Here’s how to use them to full effect in your home!  The ultimate guide to buying cushions  One of the cheapest and most effective ways to give your living room a quick update is to simply change your cushions. You will be amazed […]
This art deco dream has been lovingly, and boldly, restored

This art deco dream has been lovingly, and boldly, restored

This art deco home in Palmerston North was renovated over 10 months by an owner with creative flair and a no-fear approach to decorating Who lives here?  Julie Atwell Roberts (florist), Anthony Roberts (pharmacy owner), Jackson, and Julie’s mother, Joan, plus Penny the Staffy, cats Timmy, Goose and Stella, and four chickens. Background Julie Roberts has always […]
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Art deco reigns supreme in this exceptional Palmerston North home

Art deco reigns supreme in this exceptional Palmerston North home

Bold colour, distinct spaces and a thrifty approach to decorating have set this exceptional 1920s Palmerston North art deco house firmly apart from the pack  Who lives here?  Julie Atwell Roberts, 43 (florist), Anthony Roberts, 46 (pharmacy owner), Jackson, 17, and Julie’s mother, Joan, plus Penny the Staffy, cats Timmy, Goose and Stella, and four […]
12 of the best ottomans

12 of the best ottomans

Put your feet up while you consider the many uses of this handy piece of furniture – the ottoman Why the ottoman works well in the home Ottomans have become larger over the years, making them a more versatile piece of furniture. If they have a sturdy top, they often act as a coffee table […]
10 reasons to love the shagpile trend

10 reasons to love the shagpile trend

It’s been around for decades, but this shaggy retro carpet is making its way into all sorts of homeware It’s covered the floors of many a Kiwi home since it was introduced here in the 1960s, but then it fell out of favour – until now! The fluffy comfort of shag is back and not […]
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The latest textiles in metallics, spicy hues and botanical styles

The latest textiles in metallics, spicy hues and botanical styles

Bring your interiors to life with tactile fabrics in this season’s trending colours and designs. Scroll through the gallery to view the latest textile swatches… The 6 hottest textile trends Metallic Play the alchemist with shimmering gold, burnished bronze and polished platinum. Spice Offset the warmth of earthy cinnamon and turmeric hues with cool, calming […]
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6 man-spirational looks to inspire your next man cave

6 man-spirational looks to inspire your next man cave

The contemporary man cave has moved on from beer-crate seating and decorative car parts. Here we capture six gorgeous modern gents in their ultimate man spaces The minimalist  “I’m constantly on the move so this space fits me to a tee. Whether I’m running out to have lunch with my wife or heading off to […]
14 simple yet effective kitchen updates

14 simple yet effective kitchen updates

A kitchen revamp doesn’t have to cost the earth. These simple but effective tricks will breathe new life into the heart of your home 14 simple yet effective kitchen updates to jump-start your dream kitchen The kitchen is called the hub of the home because it’s the most used space and a favourite gathering point. It’s not […]
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A modern family home with plenty of personality

A modern family home with plenty of personality

Monochrome styling and an eye for design have transformed this tired 1980s property northwest of Auckland into a modern family home  Who lives here?  Kelly Wright (owner and designer at The Little Interiors Co), husband Shane (construction project manager), Tyler, and Paige, plus Brocky the Jack Russell. Background In 2007, recently married couple Kelly and […]
10 ways to make your home child-friendly

10 ways to make your home child-friendly

Combining fashion with function to create a family-friendly space can be a challenge. Here are some creative ways to adapt your home so your children have places for play and exploration that you can enjoy, too 1 Embrace the silly Life is too short to be serious, so consider adding some silly elements to the home […]
A determined young mum stamps her style on a 1970s home

A determined young mum stamps her style on a 1970s home

It was cramped and boxy with possibly the world’s smallest, darkest shower, but a determined young mum knew this ‘find’ on Auckland’s North Shore was just what she’d been after Who lives here? Tarryn Donaldson, 27 (marketing manager and Instagrammer @iamtarryndonaldson), husband Ryan, 27 (sales manager), Kylan Riley, 7, and Arden Cruz, 2, plus ginger […]
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Even in the depths of winter this meticulously renovated home is an oasis

Even in the depths of winter this meticulously renovated home is an oasis

A clever couple put their design expertise towards creating their dream family home in Auckland’s Remuera  Who lives here? Adam and Alice Sharp and kids Alannah, Zara, and Brook. Adam is managing director of Sharp & Page, an 80-year-old family business that specialises in residential, commercial, and commercial hospitality interiors as well as Kitchen Living, […]
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How to create an industrial-style bathroom

How to create an industrial-style bathroom

Industrial style has been around for some time now – but, thanks to its versatility and strong appeal, it is one that’s here to stay Moody industrial The bathroom is one of the most hard-working rooms in the home, not to mention a big selling point, so it pays to give its design some decent […]
A budget-friendly bathroom revamp with a floral and flirty theme

A budget-friendly bathroom revamp with a floral and flirty theme

Bold and bright floral takes centre stage in this budget-friendly revamp. Whether you have a lot to spend or just a little, bathrooms don’t have to be boring!  Who lives here?  Annick Larkin (writer and stylist), Tim Larkin (director), Lottie, Esther, and Tom. The project Annick Larkin: “Three years ago, I installed a horizontal black […]
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10 of the best brass beauties for the bathroom

10 of the best brass beauties for the bathroom

Brass is back and it’s making a splash in bathroom design. The warm, bright, look-at-me alloy adds a welcome touch of glamour Brass beauty for the bathroom The bathroom is one of the most hard-working rooms in the home, not to mention a big selling point, so it pays to give its design some decent […]
Get the look: Dyls and Dylz’s guest bedroom

Get the look: Dyls and Dylz’s guest bedroom

Don’t worry if you missed last night’s room reveal – we’ve found some of the pieces that Dyls and Dylz featured in their guest bedroom this week on The Block NZ to help you create a similar look Get the look Leather chair from Nood Bed base from Freedom Candles from Freedom Wall and ceiling colour in […]
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Get the look: Niki and Tiff’s winning guest bedroom

Get the look: Niki and Tiff’s winning guest bedroom

Don’t worry if you missed last night’s room reveal – we’ve found some of the pieces that Niki and Tiff featured in their winning guest bedroom, as seen on The Block NZ, to help you create a similar look at your place Get the look Light shades Rug Pot pant and plant from Palmers Leather chair […]
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How to get the monochrome look for your bathroom

How to get the monochrome look for your bathroom

Black and white are soulmates, the yin and yang of sophisticated design: black absorbs, white reflects Make it monochrome Your Home and Garden stylist Annick Larkin selected the products for this bathroom look from Mitre 10 MEGA. Black and white pack a real punch together, creating design schemes with impact. Whether you want a traditional […]
How to choose the right size rug

How to choose the right size rug

Homes to Love caught up with interior designer Vic Bibby from Bibby + Brady for her top tips for buying the right size rug for a space  Vic, why is rug size so important? A rug helps to define a space (especially useful in open plan living) and unifies your furniture. It should also be beautiful and enhance […]
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5 reasons to decorate with cacti

5 reasons to decorate with cacti

Cacti and succulents are the perfect indoor plant – they look amazing and require hardly any upkeep. Take a look at some of our faves… Cactus are super easy to maintain, requiring little to no watering. They do need lots of sunshine though, so set them in a sunny spot! These quirky little guys add interest […]
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10 reasons to say no to a traditional bed

10 reasons to say no to a traditional bed

We’re taking it back to basics with a mattress on the floor and things never looked better How to work this look Opt for luxurious linen that completely covers any hint of mattress Create some height with Euro cushions and throw pillows Add a pop of colour with a throw Anchor the bed with a […]
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10 summer styling tricks

10 summer styling tricks

A change of season is the perfect time to update your home and it may be simpler than you think With the winter weather behind us and summer coming out to play, now is the time to shift your interiors into sunshine mode. Easy-to-do seasonal updates are key to making your home fit for warm, […]
Stylists choose their favourite colour combos

Stylists choose their favourite colour combos

We asked three creatives with different signature styles to theme rooms in their favourite colour combos Resene ‘Kermadec Green’ fetures on the wall. Alex Walls, winner of The Block NZ 2014 and stylist Alex, what was the inspiration for your colour story? Recently I have been drawn to moody colour palettes that have a rich […]
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A functional, restful bathroom in grey

A functional, restful bathroom in grey

Grey granite wall tiles are the design star of this bathroom, creating a look that’s functional and restful yet sleek and sophisticated If you like urban style, consider a design with an industrial edge that’s still practical for family living. The beauty of this style is its versatility; it has an elegance that suits a […]
Expert tips for decorating with cushions

Expert tips for decorating with cushions

Cushions are an easy and cost-effective way to add an instant update to your interior. We’ve rounded up some top expert tips for styling with cushions Vanessa Nouwens, stylist How many cushions do I need for my couch? The number of cushions for your couch really depends on your style and preference. If you like traditional-style […]
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How to create a pretty-in-pink centrepiece

How to create a pretty-in-pink centrepiece

Recreate this floral table arrangement with these step-by-step instructions 1. You will need: Scissors, knife, oasis, cardboard tubes wrapped in paper, red decorations, tin cans 2. Cover cardboard tubes and/or tin cans with festive Christmas paper. 3. Cut rounds of oasis to fit inside the cardboard tubes, covering the bottom with plastic to stop water escaping. […]
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Bright paint effects transform these kids’ rooms

Bright paint effects transform these kids’ rooms

These super cute kids’ rooms are a colour burst. Find out how they got the look, so you can too! Whose rooms are these? Johanna, 12, and Paulina, 11. Who came up with these looks? Mum Kristin Harrison (caterer specialising in weddings and corporate functions). Where is it? Mapua near Nelson. Kristin, what was the inspiration […]
Three festive ways with washi tape

Three festive ways with washi tape

Make your own modern decorations and gifts with these easy ideas for washi tape Custom gift tags Keep costs down this Christmas by making your own gift tags. Using washi tape, make your own designs on plain white gift tags. Be as creative as possible and have some fun. Get the kids in on the […]
Sweet dreams are made of these: pillowcase edit

Sweet dreams are made of these: pillowcase edit

We’ve been shopping for a sweet spot to lay your head and found these pretty and practical pillowcases Tips for pillowcases Mix and match – a plain pillowcase looks great when paired with a patterned Euro pillow and vice versa. Try keeping your duvet in a simple shade and pair it with bold pillowcases, or go all […]
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What to buy the food-lover in your life for Christmas

What to buy the food-lover in your life for Christmas

We’ve rounded up some sublime gift ideas for food lovers. From barbecues to books, it’s never been easier to impress your family and friends with your gift-giving prowess The Forager Malle W. Trousseau Oyster Tools Set (includes leather hand guard), $119.90, from Corso De’ Fiori; water bottle with lid by Menu, $105, from Mildred & […]
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Floral Fridays: Recreate a fresh white table arrangement

Floral Fridays: Recreate a fresh white table arrangement

Follow these step-by-step instructions for this achievable white and silver arrangement                  1. You will need Scissors, knife, oasis, cardboard tubes wrapped in paper, candles, votive and votive candles, silver decorations 2. Cover cardboard tubes in paper of your choice. 3. Cut circles of oasis and cover with […]
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How to nail the coastal-cool look

How to nail the coastal-cool look

At the bach or at home, a coastal look creates instant relaxation. Nail the coastal chic look at your place with a few tips and tricks A colour scheme with natural accents of brown, taupe and grey emulates the beach, while sky blue and deep navy is reminiscent of the ocean and summer sky. Get […]
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A festive look that’s anything but traditional

A festive look that’s anything but traditional

If sophisticated pared-back luxe is your yule of choice this year then turn to the dark side with black-as-night gift wrap and accessories offset by a gleam of gold This delectably moody setting is all about scale and simplicity. The grand living room with its high ceilings, large fireplace and dark walls provides the perfect […]
The rise of the outdoor kitchen

The rise of the outdoor kitchen

Summer days are for entertaining guests alfresco, and what better way to do it than with an outdoor kitchen The rise of the outdoor kitchen Outdoor kitchens became part of modern home design by stealth. First, there was the humble barbecue, then came the fire pit to cosy up cool evenings, then the outdoor gourmet […]
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7 gorgeous Christmas wreaths

7 gorgeous Christmas wreaths

Looking for a Christmas wreath? Browse this gallery of floral wreaths made from a mix of native and exotic flora with added festive bling in the form of baubles, deer and stars Photography by: Bridget Webber Wreaths created by: students from Manukau Institute of Technology Floral School Flowers and fauna from: Flowers Work Wonders
Homes to Love
Contemporary Christmas in Epsom

Contemporary Christmas in Epsom

Take a tour of the ultimate party pad in Epsom, Auckland, where styling guru Alanna ‘the Planner’ Haysmith has set the scene for a festive celebration Style secrets Who styled this home? Alanna ‘the Planner’ Haysmith, who owns Entertaining, an event management, design and hire company, and Lisa Courtney, who owns The Pretty Baker, an […]
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Benchtop

Expert advice: Swamped with benchtop choices?

Get your decor dilemmas solved by our resident interiors expert and colour enthusiast, Alex Fulton Q; We’re about to renovate our kitchen and are a bit swamped with bench top choice… granite, engineered stone or acrylic. It’s very confusing. Do you have a preference? A; I bet you’re swamped! There are many options out there […]
Give-and-take

Give and take: A creative way to say thank you

It’s always nice to receive an invite. Here’s how to get creative in saying thank you in return. Many hallmarks of traditional etiquette have fallen by the wayside: elbows off the table, minding your Ps and Qs. But one thing that’s experiencing a renaissance is the art of hostess gifting. While it’s by no means […]
Simply You
Long summer lunch menu

Long summer lunch menu

Nothing beats a lazy lunch with friends. Here the Simply You Living team tests the latest recipes to tantalise your taste buds. Long summer lunch menu Raw Tex-Mex Tacos Recipe from Greenilicious: 101 Ways to Love Your Greens by Amanda Benham and Leigh Drew, published by Arbon and distributed in New Zealand by New Holland. […]
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Resene, girls bedroom, pink, fun

How to brighten a girl’s bedroom

Kids’ rooms are the perfect place to get creative with colour! Brighten up a girl’s room with this dotty take on colour blocking GET THE LOOK: Wall painted in Resene ‘Smitten’ and spot painted in Resene ‘Such Fun’; Sleepy Boy king single bed from Meluka; turquoise spot felt rug from Tea Pea; side table from Kmart […]
Shop profile: The Fabulist

Shop profile: The Fabulist

This West Auckland shop finds beauty in the old and unusual Shop profile: The Fabulist The hunt for the ultimate vintage find – it’s what Kristin Seth and partner Jason Hall always have on their minds. Whether they’re near their home in West Auckland or travelling throughout the country, the owners of Oratia secondhand traders […]
Target dinner plate

Designer Profile: Shooting Sparrow

It was a leap of faith for Aucklander Ben Dundas to leave his job in the fashion industry and start his own homeware label Shooting Sparrow, but one that he doesn’t regret for a moment. “It’s been an incredible journey so far,” says Ben. “I learn something new every day.” It was his fashion experience […]
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8 secrets to creating a fun summer entertaining space

8 secrets to creating a fun summer entertaining space

This fun, colourful family bach shows how you can create a great summer space at home. 8 secrets to creating a fun summer entertaining space 1 Inside out When colour and style from inside is carried outdoors your entire living space will look cohesive. Continue the same style of furniture and accessories from indoors onto […]
Mokum-Dynasty-collection-from-James-Dunlop-Textiles2

Q&A with Stephanie Moffit from Mokum

New Zealand-born Stephanie Moffitt has been at the helm of Sydney-based company Mokum for 22 years. She tells Trudi Brewer what’s in style for summer. What are the biggest trends for summer? Pulling indoor furniture outside. There is a lot of innovation in outdoor textiles where they look and feel like indoor textiles. These little […]
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Ask Alex

Expert advice: Kitchen refresh

Our resident interiors expert solves a kitchen quandary Dear Alex, I’ve recently bought a new home and the kitchen is really basic and in need of a makeover. What are some key updates I can apply without re-mortgaging the home to pay for it (i.e. budget-friendly)? At the moment it has a lot of colourful […]