Five years ago, during her first pregnancy, Charlotte Devereux noticed a gap in the market for fashionable maternity clothes.
"Back then the only thing you could get were pouch pants that made me feel like a kangaroo with an empty sack. I wanted clothing that made me feel sexy and attractive," says the Auckland mother of two.
The Egg maternity range was born, a collection of clothing designed by Devereux, with style and comfort in mind.
A couple of months ago Charlotte and boyfriend Geoff Evison, moved into a two-storey Remuera villa, which in a previous life was the home of fashion designer Trelise Cooper.
Who lives here?
Charlotte, Geoff, Jasmine, 5, and Sam, 2, and Ruby the black labrador.
What drew you to this place?
History and charm - it is an early 1900 farmhouse.
Describe your interior design style?
I love a classic look with a modern twist, and a little bit of quirkiness thrown in for good measure.
Where do you find inspiration when putting together the look of your home?
Travel, magazines, and my mother and oldest friend Jaqs both have incredible taste. They are always updating their look by adding a special piece or simply moving objects around.
What colours and textures have you used and why?
There is already a lot of colour in the house so I have kept the furniture more neutral and balanced it with cushions and throws to bring texture and interest into the interior.
Your favourite room?
Our bedroom and dressing room is a such a haven. It has a small peep of the sea and a gorgeous outlook down the valley.
What is your favourite piece of furniture?
Our very high bed - it has a gorgeous headboard made of leather and wood with an abundance of pillows and beautiful Egyptian cotton. I feel like princess and the pea.
What is your most treasured possession?
A beautiful antique mirror I purchased at a market in Paris and had shipped back to New Zealand. It has pride of place in our hallway.
Do you have any pre-loved objects or furniture in your home?
I have so many - I love checking out flea markets. But one of my best discoveries, my son Sam's huge metal cubby holes, were found on the side of the road.
Wood floors or carpet?
Definitely wooden floors with some kilims and shagpile carpets thrown on. In saying that, carpet would have been a much cosier option this winter.
What is your favourite designer piece?
An Eames chair and ottoman - I am bidding for one on eBay.
Is there a style you particularly hate?
Minimalism. I like a more relaxed approach - the mess is not so obvious.
Any advice?
Don't be restricted by trends, go with a look you love. Have fun with your interior - simply by changing cushions, throws or objects you can bring a whole new look to a room. Lighting can also make a huge difference. We've added some pendant lighting to the kitchen and it's given the room a real lift. I had dimmers installed so we can create a softer light for entertaining in the evening.
Charlotte's new web
Charlotte Devereux's Remuera home was originally a farm house. Picture / Babiche Martens
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