We loved it, but damage from the earthquakes meant we had to say farewell. It was a sad day, but we've now moved into a new building. Fabulous concrete, glass, sunny and bright. It's a blank canvas on which we're quickly putting our stamp. The Mainland Design Centre lives on in our new premises in the city's Madras St.
And so it is with so many new homes. The very best homes are a collaboration between the architect, home owner and interior designer. This meeting of the minds needs to come early - at the planning stage. Bring your interior design consultant on board early so they understand what you and the architect are trying to achieve. Often the architect's lines are vitally important for the final look and the last thing he envisages is fussy curtains or curtain track systems that cover important detailing.
Conversely your interior designer will give consideration at the planning stage for how blinds or curtains are to be hung, where the tracks or rods are best placed and where enough wall space needs to be allowed for the curtains to stack back without masking the view or natural light.
Your designer will also offer advice based on the plans for furniture placement to ensure easy movement throughout your home. They can help you set a budget from the outset so the important finishing details are included. We often hear the entire budget has been spent on the build, not allowing for those final touches that truly make the difference between a house and a home.
