Meet the Auckland design duo whose passion for creativity and form is lovingly instilled into the next generation.
A cosy worker’s cottage built circa 1940 boasts brilliant city views from its elevated site in Birkenhead, on Auckland’s North Shore. Descend to the end of its winding, historic street and you’re met with the Chelsea Sugar Refinery, as well as coastal walking tracks flanked with native trees and birdlife.
This home is a hive of creativity for owners – architect AJ Sutton and interior designer Stacey Gillies; and while the couple have previously enhanced the home’s footprint and external appearance, they have their minds firmly set on the next phase of renovation.
AJ’s architecture practice, MA Studio, is known for high-quality, bespoke residential work and well-considered commercial spaces, including specialist healthcare. Wife Stacey pursued her own personal styling business before moving into interiors, where her designs are infused with a mix of modern and vintage decor, paired with beautiful materials, quality finishes and injections of colour. Together, Stacey and AJ are a formidable team, working together to create beautiful spaces.
Personal Project
Currently a two-bedroom dwelling, the couple’s home design plans will allow more living space for their family. Naturally, their respective skills and passion for design has not been without hurdles.
“Sometimes our ideas differ,” AJ admits. “At this stage of the project, I’m focused on the overall project and budget, while Stacey is planning the interior. We’ve learned to compromise, but we admit, it is hard – particularly when we both have strong views.”
Stacey adds: “Our different perspectives can be a challenge, but it also has a positive effect. Our designs are richer and more interesting because of it.”
Child’s Play
The couple’s children, Frankie (9) and Sam (6), are encouraged to be creative thinkers by expressing any of their ideas for small design decisions in the home, to foster a sense of inclusion and creativity. Sketchbooks, paint brushes, clay, and beads invite the kids to explore various materials and textures.
“Sam often joins me when sketching room designs, particularly if it’s his own future bedroom,” says Stacey. “Frankie enjoys creating colourful artwork and objects, such as jewellery and miniature sculptures.
“We’ve always encouraged the kids to be creative, whether that’s painting, using watercolours, clay, or sewing. We have a lot of marks on our dining table, which we gave up trying to protect a long time ago.”
As AJ finalises their architectural drawings, the family is excited about the future in a larger home – one which will take full advantage of the spectacular harbour and city views and will be a reflection of their combined creativity, and love of art and design.
Follow AJ Sutton and Stacey Gillies for more insights into their design projects and future renovation.
