sotheby’s property style Autumn column
As the Design columnist for Sotheby’s magazine, I gather the latest design inspiration from New Zealand brands, designers and makers to appear in the magazine. Here are some warm and textural finds for the change of season.
Shielded in Gold
Max Gimblett’s Picasso’s Shield is a captivating blend of gesture, colour, and precious metals. His signature quatrefoil shape, inspired by both Eastern and Western spiritual traditions, serves as a canvas for expressive abstraction. With layers of acrylic polymer and white gold, this work exudes richness and depth.
Max Gimblett, Picasso’s Shield, $40,000, from Gow Langsford, https://gowlangsfordgallery.co.nz/
Sculptural Seating
A balance of simplicity and ergonomic comfort, the new Iris Chair by Woodwrights is a versatile, solid timber piece designed for both residential and commercial spaces. Its thoughtfully curved backrest and upholstered seat pad ensure an inviting dining experience.
Iris Chair, from $938, from Woodwrights, https://woodwrights.co.nz/
Illuminating Craftsmanship
Kaia Lighting blends European craftsmanship with contemporary design. These striking light fixtures use honest materials to balance light and shadow beautifully, creating a sculptural ambiance. Each piece embodies timeless elegance and sustainability.
Kaia Lighting, from $815, from Simon James, https://simonjames.co.nz/
Shaggy Chic
The One + Half Sheepskin Rug in Mt Gold Extra Shaggy Wool by Wilson & Dorset is a luxurious, lightweight essential for any space. Whether draped over an armchair or styled on a bench, its versatility and warmth make it a must-have.
One + Half Sheepskin Rug, $269, from Wilson &Dorset, https://wilsondorset.com/
Geometry in Motion
Matthew Browne’s Montage of Attractions 35 is a striking interplay of form and colour. His geometric compositions evoke the traditions of abstract painting while offering an open-ended exploration of surface and structure. A bold yet subtle statement for any collector.
Matthew Browne, Montage of Attractions 35, $1450, from Gow Langsford, https://gowlangsfordgallery.co.nz/
Fit for Royalty
The Regal Sectional by SR Interiors makes an opulent statement. Its sumptuous velvet upholstery, curved silhouette, and contrasting Champagne Gold-finished feet embody drama and glamour—an instant focal point for any luxurious living space.
Regal Sectional, $18,170, from SR Interiors, https://www.srinteriors.co.nz/
Marble that Speaks
Breccia Lunare, a stunning brecciated marble, is my favourite stone this season and perfectly captures the rich hues of autumn—cream, red, green, and grey. Its striking veins bring warmth and bold elegance to any interior while offering the timeless appeal of natural stone. Use this for your kitchen benchtop and splashback, bathroom vanities, or fireplace surround.
Breccia Lunare, POA, from Material Space, https://materialspace.co.nz/
Good on paper
Handcrafted in India, Eunice Taylor’s Paper Mache Decor collection exudes organic charm. With its unique shape and artisanal imperfections, the pieces add effortless warmth to console tables and styled shelves. Whether placed on a coffee table or styled with natural elements, its handcrafted texture elevates any space.
Louis Vase, $412.80, from Eunice Taylor, https://eunicetaylor.co.nz/
A Basin with Presence
Designed by internationally renowned Auckland sculptor Gidon Bing, theTerra Basin is a celebration of craftsmanship and materiality. Produced in Vitreous Stoneware, it features four hand-applied glazes—Dune, Pumice, Manuka, and Muriwai—each inspired by Aotearoa’s stunning natural landscape. A sculptural and sophisticated addition to any bathroom.
Terra Basin by Gidon Bing, $1599, from Plumbline, https://plumbline.co.nz/
Seasonal style
We are seeing more organic, textural pieces inspired by the natural world, as people seek out the calming effects of nature in their everyday home environments. The Palecek Fall 24Collection is a tribute to the beauty of nature, inspired byitsrich, earthy hues and textures. This collection blends interesting materials and organic patterns with intricate craftsmanship to create timeless pieces that can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Palecek fall collection, POA, from Eunice Taylor, https://eunicetaylor.co.nz/
Wall art
This new collection by Elitis offers a reinterpretation of Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics with gold, making them even more valuable. In this revival, plaster offers its raw patina to reveal precious paintings. Unpredictable, uneven, metal threads meander their way across the matt colours, to create a surprisingly zen and peaceful effect.
Elitis Kintsugi collection, POA depending on quantities, from Seneca, https://seneca.co.nz/
By Shelley Ferguson