Karin’s story

Karin approached Homes with Soul when she was ready to renovate her master bedroom and ensuite bathroom. She longed for more luxuriousness and serenity – a special space to relax and unwind away from the constant demands of family life.

The existing spaces were functional but not somewhere she spent a lot of time.

Before

As with any design, we first identified any existing pieces of furniture that could be used within the space. The existing oak tallboy (left) was lovely, and a great solution for the corner in which it sat – so this remained unchanged. Karin also had an antique desk (middle) that has been in her family for many years, that she wanted to be incorporated into her new design.

BEFORE

Creating the New Design Direction

A mood board was created that incorporated these existing pieces and was continually updated over the course of the project showing different combinations of colours and products so Karin could see the overall design take shape. By working more dynamically with a mood board, we moved the design in a direction that felt completely personal to Karin (rather than it being my design stamped on her space).

Making Progress

We created cohesion between the bedroom and bathroom with blues, white, natural brass and oak finishes.

Resene Half Robin Egg Blue was used in the bedroom, completely transforming the feel of the space from the previous yellowed cream. Resene Pewter in the bathroom worked really well since it was deep enough to create lovely contrast against the white tiles, but not so dark as to close the small space in.

PRODUCT CHOICES

American oak shelving was used in the bedroom and bathroom. The oak vanity also linked the oak furniture in the bedroom. It was important to Karin that she had somewhere she could display photos and other special pieces – the shelving was a great space for her to display personal items and has added a lovely personal touch to the space.

Natural brass tapware in the bathroom was echoed in the brass bedside lamps, as well as several brass ornaments that Karin already owned.

Conscious of not wanting the bathroom to date over time, we opted for natural brass tapware and used chrome for the rest of the fittings. Having all brass fittings would have been overkill (and impossible to match across different product). We considered using black instead of chrome but decided this would be too “on-trend” and would likely date more quickly. Using brass with restraint has really made it a lovely feature – topped off by a fabulous antique mirror that I found at a local antique dealer.

It took a bit of time to find the perfect bedroom chair but we did it! A luxurious golden velvet chair that really makes the space come alive. It’s large enough for Karin to curl up in with a good book and fits the space perfectly. Karin said that “unfortunately” there is also enough space for a small child to curl up in the chair too…which somewhat defeats the purpose – but sounds lovely all the same!

We had an over-sized upholstered bedhead custom made. Karin loves the colour and texture of the fabric we chose (Warwick Victory Pacific) and it works beautifully with the paint colour, and the mustard tones are a great contrast.

A small resin stool in the same teal as the bedhead was chosen to sit on at the desk when applying make up, but also serves as a side table or foot stool next to the bedroom chair.

White bedding and neutral striped roman blinds added a “squeeze of lime” to the space – injecting freshness against the bold mustard and teals.

Plants, photos and accessories give this special sanctuary a very personal touch.

AFTER

Although not heavily involved in this project, her husband John was consulted on each decision to ensure the space was somewhere they both felt a strong connection to.

This was such a satisfying project, and I love how perfectly the space fits Karin and her style. She loves it too!

“I absolutely love my new bathroom and bedroom - it’s gone from a dull and boring place to an elegant, calming sanctuary.

It was wonderful to work with you again Nicci. I really value your design ‘eye’, pragmatism and ability to pick up my style and ideas and turn it into something that works as a whole. Without your help, I would have found myself paralysed by choice and fear of getting it wrong.

I really valued your project management of the whole renovation. As a working mum, I don’t have the time to shop, organise tradies and oversee their work. It was such a relief to be able to hand it all over to you and enjoy watching it coming together - Karin”

If you’re feeling bored of your home, and want to breathe new life into it, but you’re not sure where to start, I can guide you through the journey.

Get in touch today for a complimentary discovery session, and let’s have a chat about what you’re hoping to achieve, and how I can help you get there.