DESKTOP
MOBILE
Have you ever wondered how to transform those stunning images on your mood board into a living space that not only looks beautiful but also functions seamlessly? Shelley Ferguson, founder of SF Studio and former editorial director of leading interior magazines, shares her insights on creating livable luxury.Starting with inspiration is a common approach for many homeowners. They collect images and ideas, dreaming of spaces that reflect their personal style. However, the challenge lies in translating these inspirations into a practical plan. Shelley emphasizes the importance of understanding the client’s lifestyle and needs. She delves deep into their daily routines, preferences, and even their hobbies to craft a space that truly resonates with them.
One of the key aspects Shelley highlights is the balance between aesthetics and functionality. While it’s tempting to focus solely on the visual appeal, it’s crucial to consider how the space will be used daily. This involves meticulous spatial planning, ensuring that the flow of the home supports the client’s lifestyle. Shelley often plays detective, gathering clues from her clients’ lives to inform her design decisions.
Another vital element is the choice of materials. In New Zealand, where the climate can be harsh, durability is essential. Shelley recommends using materials like stone, timber, and performance fabrics that can withstand the test of time while maintaining their beauty. These materials not only add a touch of luxury but also ensure that the home remains functional and comfortable.
Lighting also plays a significant role in creating a harmonious living environment. Shelley advises homeowners to spend time observing how natural light interacts with their space throughout the day. This understanding can guide decisions on paint colours and window placements, enhancing the overall ambiance of the home.
Ultimately, the journey from inspiration to reality is a collaborative process. By working closely with clients, builders, and tradespeople, Shelley ensures that every detail aligns with the client’s vision. This approach not only results in a stunning home but also one that feels uniquely personal and livable.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.
Curious to see more practical advice from industry experts? Visit our Top Tips hub for quick, valuable insights shared by people who’ve been there, helping you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes.
Our Guides covers selecting frame materials, comparing glazing options, planning for natural light and adding security features that suit your lifestyle. Join MyTrends for access to this and a full library of guides to help you on your property journey.
Curious to see more practical advice from industry experts? Visit our Top Tips hub for quick, valuable insights shared by people who’ve been there, helping you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes.
Our Guides covers selecting frame materials, comparing glazing options, planning for natural light and adding security features that suit your lifestyle. Join MyTrends for access to this and a full library of guides to help you on your property journey.
Episode Overview
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Shelley Ferguson, award-winning editor, media personality, and founder of SF Studio, to explore how great interior design transforms more than just spaces. From early inspiration to final installation, Shelley shares her process for achieving “liveable luxury,” a blend of beauty, durability, and function that supports real life in all its glorious messiness.
She unpacks why proportion, circulation, and cabinetry matter more than any Pinterest board, and how materials, colour, and natural light need to work with, not against, New Zealand’s unique conditions. Shelley also opens up about the emotional arc of a renovation or new build, and the pivotal role a designer plays in helping clients make the right choices in the right order.
Have you ever wondered how to transform those stunning images on your mood board into a living space that not only looks beautiful but also functions seamlessly? Shelley Ferguson, founder of SF Studio and former editorial director of leading interior magazines, shares her insights on creating livable luxury.Starting with inspiration is a common approach for many homeowners. They collect images and ideas, dreaming of spaces that reflect their personal style. However, the challenge lies in translating these inspirations into a practical plan. Shelley emphasizes the importance of understanding the client’s lifestyle and needs. She delves deep into their daily routines, preferences, and even their hobbies to craft a space that truly resonates with them.
One of the key aspects Shelley highlights is the balance between aesthetics and functionality. While it’s tempting to focus solely on the visual appeal, it’s crucial to consider how the space will be used daily. This involves meticulous spatial planning, ensuring that the flow of the home supports the client’s lifestyle. Shelley often plays detective, gathering clues from her clients’ lives to inform her design decisions.
Another vital element is the choice of materials. In New Zealand, where the climate can be harsh, durability is essential. Shelley recommends using materials like stone, timber, and performance fabrics that can withstand the test of time while maintaining their beauty. These materials not only add a touch of luxury but also ensure that the home remains functional and comfortable.
Lighting also plays a significant role in creating a harmonious living environment. Shelley advises homeowners to spend time observing how natural light interacts with their space throughout the day. This understanding can guide decisions on paint colours and window placements, enhancing the overall ambiance of the home.
Ultimately, the journey from inspiration to reality is a collaborative process. By working closely with clients, builders, and tradespeople, Shelley ensures that every detail aligns with the client’s vision. This approach not only results in a stunning home but also one that feels uniquely personal and livable.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.
Curious to see more practical advice from industry experts? Visit our Top Tips hub for quick, valuable insights shared by people who’ve been there, helping you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes.
Our Guides covers selecting frame materials, comparing glazing options, planning for natural light and adding security features that suit your lifestyle. Join MyTrends for access to this and a full library of guides to help you on your property journey.
Curious to see more practical advice from industry experts? Visit our Top Tips hub for quick, valuable insights shared by people who’ve been there, helping you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes.
Our Guides covers selecting frame materials, comparing glazing options, planning for natural light and adding security features that suit your lifestyle. Join MyTrends for access to this and a full library of guides to help you on your property journey.
Episode Overview
In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Shelley Ferguson, award-winning editor, media personality, and founder of SF Studio, to explore how great interior design transforms more than just spaces. From early inspiration to final installation, Shelley shares her process for achieving “liveable luxury,” a blend of beauty, durability, and function that supports real life in all its glorious messiness.
She unpacks why proportion, circulation, and cabinetry matter more than any Pinterest board, and how materials, colour, and natural light need to work with, not against, New Zealand’s unique conditions. Shelley also opens up about the emotional arc of a renovation or new build, and the pivotal role a designer plays in helping clients make the right choices in the right order.
[clean_tags]
Related Articles
Top Tips for Transforming Inspiration into a Functional Home
Turn your design dreams into reality with practical advice.
Sense of luxury
This thoughtfully detailed kitchen is a master class in working with a shoestring budget to create a look that reflects champagne tastes
Art Deco by the sea
Faced with a modest space, this Airbnb apartment bathroom creates easy circulation, restful tones and a nod to the wider Art Deco aesthetic
Portfolios
View Industry Specialists
Portfolios
View Industry Specialists
Askö
Furniture designed for life. Ethically made dining and living furniture and accessories by international and New Zealand designers where refined elegance meets sleek, contemporary form. Explore our extensive range of designer furniture via our Christchurch showroom or browse online.
Plumbing World
Plumbing World is New Zealand’s most prominent 100% Kiwi-owned national plumbing merchant, operating over 50 branches from Kerikeri to Invercargill. Plumbing World offers a wide range of bathroom, kitchen, laundry, heating, and hot water products, catering to trade professionals and homeowners.
Landmark Homes
Founding directors Paul and Debbie Clarke established Landmark Homes in 1977. Their vision was to offer “something more exciting” than the average home: a home that made creative use of space but was also beautiful to live in.
Poggenpohl
Poggenpohl is a premium German kitchen brand known for its innovation, timeless design, and precision craftsmanship, offering bespoke kitchen solutions that blend luxury with functionality.
Mastercraft Kitchens
Founded in 1985, we are the largest group of independently owned and operated kitchen businesses in New Zealand, operating under a national banner. Our licensees have been carefully selected and are experts in their craft. We share an absolute passion for the design, manufacture and installation of high quality, well designed kitchens and other household cabinetry provided with personalised, friendly local service. Think national - be local.
Kitchen Studio
At Kitchen Studio we are very proud of the fact that we are been voted the most trusted kitchen brand in New Zealand for the ninth year running, and there are good reasons why more Kiwis trust us to transform their kitchen than anyone else.
Box™
Box isn’t like other New Zealand architecture firms; we’re a building design company responsible for every part of the process, from design to construction. If you’re looking for a team of designers or builders in Auckland, we can help.
The best architects know what it means to design both beautifully and practically, ensuring the best builders can, in turn, build more efficiently and collaboratively with you and the designer or architect.
Our consistent and attentive involvement of each team throughout the entire design-build process includes our in-house cost estimation team, who value-engineer projects to ensure the highest quality and value, while respecting your vision as our client.