A view to city living

Carolyn Haslett says her painted white floors are "totally impractical" but she likes the look. Picture / Carolyn Haslett

Makeup artist and photographer Carolyn Haslett lives in a country-style apartment in one of Auckland's oldest buildings.

She moved in 12 years ago after coming back to New Zealand from Europe. Haslett spent 11 years overseas, mostly in Paris, where she trained in makeup artistry.

"I got used to apartment living in Europe so when I came across Courtville soon after I got home I decided I was going to live there."

She tracked down the building manager and discovered there was an apartment to rent. Not wishing to leave when her landlord put her apartment up for sale, she bought the top-floor apartment five years ago.

Who lives here?

Me and my affenpinscher, Monkey.

Where is it?

An apartment block built in the early 1900s in central Auckland.

What drew you to this place?

I like old buildings. This one has a fantastic view, it's secure, and it really feels like home.

Do you follow fads?

No. I don't spend any time in homeware stores and furniture design places.

Describe your interior design style?

Eclectic and lived in.

What were your priorities?

Comfortable and homely.

What colours and textures have you used?

I like softer colours. There is also a lot of white because unfortunately this building doesn't get a lot of sun. I like natural fabrics, cottons, linens and softer textures.

The best thing about living here?

The view is amazing. Even though I live in the city, from the balcony the only things I see are an old church and the museum in the Domain. Two lovely old buildings.

Your favourite spot?

The bathtub. I have a clawfoot tub - very deep and very relaxing.

Do you entertain much at home?

I used to like having friends over for dinner parties but now I prefer to go out. Living in the city gives me lots of choices.

Do you have any collections?

I wouldn't describe myself as a collector, an accumulator maybe.

Do you have any pre-loved objects or furniture in your home?

Except for a few pieces from Redcurrent, everything is pre-loved. I frequent auction rooms and antique stores.

Wallpaper or paint?

In my place it's paint.

Wood floors or carpet?

Wood floors, some painted white (totally impractical), and some stained.

Do you like the lived-in look?

Absolutely, I want to live in a home not a show home.

Is there a style you particularly hate?

Hard cold lines and surfaces, interiors that can't take a few knocks, and houses that aren't designed to be lived in. I have been into many in Auckland that are cold and unfriendly.

Any advice?

Home is supposed to be a sanctuary. With this in mind, do what you want, not what's fashionable, and choose things that make you feel good.