Furnishing a home, whether you’re decorating a new space or updating an existing one, requires a keen eye for both style and practicality. In New Zealand, where the focus is often on durable outdoor living and smart interior solutions, three items are key to a well-organized and stylish home: outdoor furniture, efficient shoe racks, and trendy bar stools.
Outdoor Furniture: Embracing the Kiwi Lifestyle
New Zealanders love to live outdoors, making quality outdoor furniture a necessity, not a luxury. The local climate, with its intense UV rays and frequent rain, demands furniture that’s built to last. When choosing pieces, consider weather-resistant materials to ensure longevity and minimal maintenance.
Popular options for the New Zealand market include:
Aluminum and Stainless Steel: These are highly durable, rust-resistant, and lightweight, making them easy to move for cleaning or storage.
Teak and Kwila: These hardwoods are naturally rich in oils, which makes them highly resistant to decay and warping. They can be left to weather to a stylish silver-grey patina or regularly oiled to retain their original warm colour.
Woven Rattan/Wicker: Typically made with synthetic polyethylene (PE) rattan, these pieces offer a classic, comfortable look with excellent weather resistance.
Retailers offer everything from large modular lounges for entertaining to compact bistro sets perfect for apartment balconies. Investing in quality covers and cushions made from fade-resistant, quick-dry fabric is also crucial for protecting your set from the elements.
Shoe Racks: Organizing Your Entryway
In many New Zealand homes, it’s customary to take shoes off at the door to keep the interiors clean. This practice makes a practical and space-saving shoe rack essential for an organized entryway. Keeping footwear neatly stored prevents clutter and makes the process of coming and going much smoother.
When selecting a shoe rack, consider the space you have and the volume of shoes you need to store:
Vertical Towers/Shelves: These utilize height, making them ideal for narrow hallways or closets. They come in wood, metal, or plastic.
Benches with Internal Storage: These provide a dual function—a place to sit while putting shoes on and discreet storage underneath.
Over-the-Door Organisers: An excellent space-saving solution for utility rooms or backs of wardrobe doors.
Materials should be durable and easy to clean, as shoe racks can accumulate dirt. Look for modular designs that allow you to expand your storage as needed.
Bar Stools NZ: Function and Flair for the Kitchen
The kitchen island and breakfast bar are often the social hub of a modern New Zealand home, and the right bar stools NZ can complete the look while providing comfortable, functional seating. When purchasing in New Zealand, you’ll find a wide selection designed to meet various aesthetic and ergonomic requirements.
Key considerations for bar stools include:
Height: Ensure the stool height leaves a comfortable gap (usually 25-30 cm) between the seat and the underside of your counter or bar. Adjustable gas-lift stools offer the most flexibility.
Comfort: Look for stools with padded seats and backrests if they’ll be used for long periods. Footrests are also essential for posture and comfort.
Style: Materials range from sleek metal and industrial timber to contemporary upholstered fabric and leather. The stool should complement your kitchen’s existing cabinetry and colour scheme.
Popular choices in NZ include upholstered stools for a luxurious look, backless stools for a minimalist feel that tucks neatly under the counter, and swivel stools for maximum utility.
