Art deco delight

Kirstin Bailey is a fan of Asian-inspired decor, as seen in the master bedroom. Photo / Supplied

Like many couples starting on the property ladder, Kirstin Bailey and her husband, Paul Velich, began by buying a do-up.

According to Bailey, the home they bought eight years ago in the Auckland suburb of Onehunga was "a complete mess, with no chattels, faux brick fireplaces literally falling off the walls, floorboards that had been left to ruin and a 1970s-style bathroom in stunning shades of pink and mustard".

What attracted them was the home's original art deco features, and the winding concrete path leading to the house, which was hidden under tangled vines and overgrown hedges.

Work began with gutting the kitchen, dining room and lounge. Four walls were removed to create two large living spaces instead of the original four small living rooms.

The kitchen was transformed into an entertainer's space with Poggenpohl cabinetry that is Bailey's favourite thing in the house.

"It is so beautifully made and now eight years down the track still looks as good as the day we bought it."

A couple of years later the couple extended the home to cope with their growing family of three sons: Bodhi, aged 15, Orlando, 6, and Sebastian, 4. The addition created two new bedrooms, a large tiled ensuite and a family living area.

"It was a well thought-through process, with a lot of time spent determining exactly how we would incorporate a contemporary extension with the original Spanish-style art deco bungalow," says Bailey.

"In hindsight, we were fortunate that the addition of a modern space worked in harmony with the square-structured features of the home."

As for interiors, Bailey believes people should never be afraid to use strong colour and mix patterns.

"It could be combining wallpaper and paint or floral with stripes; you will be surprised at the result," she says.

"Gone are the days where neutrals and whites were the only choice. We have covered walls in our home using both wallpaper and paint and I love the depth that it adds to a room."

Bailey is a big admirer of Florence Broadhurst's incredible range of wallpaper and textiles.

"I love her art deco and Asian-inspired prints," she says.

"We have several pieces within our home that have an Asian influence, which comes from my love of the time I spent living in Singapore as a child."

Kids' style

Joint effort: Engage your child in the project from the start so they buy into it. Use a favourite book, toy or picture as a starting point.

Avoid themes: Children go through different phases quickly so don't theme a whole room or you will be looking at changing the entire decor in the near future.

Soft touch: An important feature of any bedroom is the soft furnishings. For kids' rooms choose good-quality woven fabrics that are UV-resistant and are easily washed. Stripes or patterns are great for interest and are also good for disguising marks.

Leanne Moore is the editor of Your Home & Garden magazine. See the latest issue for the full story on this home and other ideas for your place.