Esprit de corps

Like any art form, creating a liveable interior takes a practised hand. While many of us will move or update our homes several times, we don't always have the skill to realise the full potential of each property.

That's why establishing a relationship with a competent and accomplished interior designer will always pay dividends, says Suzanne Arts, principal of Smartspatial.

"Interior design is a measured, disciplined profession that requires familiarity with a wide range of styles. It is the realisation of a concept, through collaboration and understanding."

For the project featured on these pages, a two-year renovation, Arts worked in close contact with the homeowner and a team of artisans to design and manufacture a range of bespoke furnishings to suit the updated residence and fulfil the owners' requirements.

"During the entire process an open dialogue was maintained between all parties. Ideas were reinterpreted, reworked and finessed until the clients were satisfied. That's something that is not always possible when you buy ready-made furnishings," says Arts.

This opinion is echoed by Colin Foley of UDM, the company responsible for the upholstered furnishings throughout the house.

"Part of our business success comes from being able to offer clients the option of testing their pieces before they're completed.

"Clients can visit the premises and adjust the level of comfort, lumbar support or any other aspect of the piece before we begin the upholstery. It's a service we offer to ensure complete customer satisfaction."

It is also, says Arts, why she chooses to work with like-minded contemporaries.

"Again, it's down to the level of trust we have in each other, through the relationships we've developed over the years. I know I can introduce my clients to my industry partners and they will receive the same professionalism I bring to the project."

Another collaborator in the featured project was Simon Burden of furniture manufacturer Marton Lee.

"Like Suzanne and Colin, our preferred approach is one of collaboration. We listen to our clients, whether they have a specific design or just a general idea, and we work together to give them a piece that fulfils their requirements, and even exceeds them. In the end, it's about craftsmanship, the ability to customise a piece. You can buy furniture from any store and be 95% happy with it when you get it home, but in reality, 95% is a long way from 100%."

Arts agrees. "From the rugs by Sensational Floors, to the custom glass panels by Deco Glaze, and of course the furniture, this home is an expression of the people who live in it a lifestyle realised through a living environment."

For further details, contact Smartspatial, PO Box 99745, Newmarket, Auckland 1149, phone 027 459 6272. Email: smartspatial@ihug.co.nz.

Story by: Justin Foote