Name: Vivienne James Occupation: Interior designer, storyteller and writer Suburb: Tauranga City
VIVIENNE James and husband Joseph Chaning-Pearce have a charming central apartment full of art, artefacts, books, plants, rustic furniture and collectibles ... and a bed.
The couple took the open plan concept to the next level when they bought theircity apartment two years ago and started demolishing every interior wall in a major renovation to create the perfect space for them.
"What we have done would not work for everyone, but it works for us," Vivienne says.
The dated apartment previously had two bedrooms that were so small you could only just fit a bed in, with no room for anything else.
The panoramic views from their balcony out over the water, the bridge and the airport were too good not to enjoy at all times of the day and night, Vivienne says. So now the living room is also their bedroom.
"Well, it's wonderful. We can sit up in bed and enjoy the view at night. It works really well for us as a couple. Behind the bed is a wall that opens into a dressing room, a secret wall if you will, and it opens out to the view at the back of building.
"We have a big pot plant at the end of the bed and it causes a barrier of sorts."
The interior designer has decked out the apartment with her favourite things, and not necessarily what is on-trend.
"What I don't like is walking into a room where it is obvious an interior designer has designed the entire thing. I prefer a home that reflects their personality and shows the passage of a person's life. You have to have books, plants, squashy cushions - things you love. Things have to be comfortable. I do not believe in surrounding myself with anything that does not make me happy."
The walls are peppered with art and artefacts. As a retired professional ballerina, Vivienne has many artistic friends who have helped build her collection. Vivienne likes diversity such as her large framed Asian silver necklace (one of five purchased for a hotel installation that was surplus to requirements).
"Nostalgia and intrinsic value adorn my walls," she says.
Photo by Andrew Warner
She also loves to surround herself with nature and living things so the pot plants get a lot of love. Things collected from beaches reminds the couple of a time well spent.
"I can't wait to get home in the evening to a relaxing glass of wine with my husband and watch the passing parade prior to enjoying my dinner with the doors opening onto my balcony and relaxing in the evening breeze."
