An ex-rental in Auckland’s Beach Haven with a once-tired weatherboard exterior has been transformed into a modern bohemian dream
In a nutshell
Who lives here?
Amanda Fitzsimmons (full-time mum and stylist/artist for Rococo and Rose), husband Tim (portfolio manager), Phoebe, 9, Archie, 7, and cats Frankie and Romy.
What attracted you to Beach Haven?
Originally, it was the only area where we could afford to buy our first home. We took quite a few weekend drives around it and fell in love with the relaxed community, the beaches close by and the lush bush. And there’s a great cafe for coffee.
How would you describe your interiors style?
My style is a mixture of things: bohemian, tribal, seaside luxe, modern and rustic. What we love is relaxed living, so anything washed, faded, textured, grey, black, white or indigo. I love all natural organic materials: rock, stone, wood, rattan, metal, glass. I love mixing sentimental antique pieces into a modern home; I think it gives it a point of difference and a curated feel.
Style tips
- Don’t fill a space or wall just because it’s blank. Leave it blank until you find the perfect thing to fill it.
- Go for a neutral background with paint, tiles, carpet etc. That will allow you to evolve your own style and change out textiles and accessories over the years without having to repaint and decorate unnecessarily.
- Put your special things on display rather than leaving them tucked away in a cupboard.
- When renovating try to mix your own classic design with on-trend design. Your home will end up with a modern, ageless interior that is unique to you.
The garden is next on the renovation agenda but in the meantime white Cape Cod chairs and a hammock create a relaxing atmosphere.
Amanda and Tim installed the kitchen themselves, with many hours spent removing old lino with a heat gun. They also whitewashed the original rimu floors so they are the colour of driftwood.
The main living space is open plan and includes the sitting, kitchen and dining areas. The walls are painted alabaster white with accents of matte black in furniture and accessories, creating a “seaside luxe” look.
On the wall of the living room is one of Amanda’s artworks in her signature style of layered paint and a simple black and white palette.
The main bathroom is lined with the same butcher’s tiles as the kitchen’s, enhancing the sense of continuity. Amanda says it’s one of her favourite rooms as it has the atmosphere of a sanctuary with its mix of textures, colours and light yet is still practical for day-to-day family life. She spent hours planning the layout so that it would work perfectly for the family.
A clever take on vertical planters using hessian bags.
Phoebe’s room was a joint effort between mum and daughter.
Natural textiles feature throughout the house, such as this sisal rug near the front door.
Amanda and Frankie the cat in the dining area.
The family love hanging out in the living room to watch movies or enjoy the view.
Amanda always has plants and flowers in the house – “They add something pretty and organic to a space.”
Amanda’s hall table is a favourite area to showcase her collections of treasured objects and trinkets.
Archie’s room reflects his passion for surfing and skating.
Archie’s room reflects his passion for surfing and skating.
White-painted lattice screens provide privacy on the back deck. Amanda added cushions, rugs, plants and a shell chandelier from Bali to continue the house’s relaxed vibe outside.
A rectangular cut-out in the wall between kitchen and living area is both practical and aesthetic.
The vanity and basins for the ensuite bathroom on the lower level were bought secondhand and repurposed.
Driftwood adorned with a shell garland makes a beautiful feature above the bed in the main bedroom.
Phoebe’s room was a joint effort between mum and daughter.
The garden is next on the renovation agenda but in the meantime white Cape Cod chairs and a hammock create a relaxing atmosphere.
Amanda’s home office.
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