Ten years ago, I was looking for a new challenge having volunteered with Friends of Starship for more than a decade. I realised there was a gap in Birkenhead for contemporary home and giftware, so I took the plunge and learned on the job.

Describe your home?

We’ve just finished renovating our house of 20 years, and have breathed new life into it with light and airy spaces. I think my style could be described as clean, welcoming and thoughtful.

Favourite room in the house?

It’s a toss-up between our gorgeous new kitchen and my beautiful laundry.  Hardly a day goes by when I don’t say out loud: “I love our new kitchen”. Crazy. And the laundry?  It’s light, spacious, has great storage and we included this in our renovation too so it’s got a beautiful new stone benchtop and stunning tap.

Trend you wish would make a comeback?

I love how trends today reference the past – earthy colours, macrame, Temuka-style pottery and indoor plants – they’re all sharing the spotlight. I think you can pretty much do what you like these days, and introduce as many elements from the past as you want.

Money no object, what would you get for your home?

Does having a pool count?  We haven’t got a huge amount of land, but I’m sure a creative landscaper could make this work, otherwise I’d settle for an integrated fridge.

What would you go budget on?

We spent the bulk of our budget on a new kitchen and new flooring for the house.  We had coloured concrete that hadn’t worn well over 20 years, so it was time to give it a refresh.  The flooring, coupled with our kitchen has made our overall kitchen and family living space appear much bigger and brighter. 

You’ve got a day to refresh your house – what do you do?

Fragrant candles, a new piece of art, and fresh flowers every time, plus new accent cushions and a throw or two.  It’s amazing the big difference that small elements can make.

What should every home have?

An inviting communal space or heart, where everyone can gather and be together.  That might be to share meals, have a few drinks, watch the rugby or just read.