“We believe home to be a place that mirrors one’s values, reminds us of where we’ve been and replenishes us for our days ahead. A living, shapeable space that adapts through the seasons and hums with the energy of its owner. “
Auckland, New Zealand.
We have been in our Jervois Road location for over 30 years now, and have seen the neighbourhood grow increasingly dynamic. The area around us is predominantly residential and we feel very much like a neighbour to those who live nearby. These familiar faces and daily interactions are a life source in owning a brick & mortar store. It's a connection you cannot replicate online, one I feel strongly about celebrating. We are located next to other design and fashion stores, with a few cafes and bars between us. There is a sense of ease in our area, it's a spot you can wander through and find something special before meeting a friend for coffee.
It has to make me feel excited on first glance, or at least make me slow down to notice its considerations and details. I want to feel as though I could take it home and it would fit in right away, without adding anything extra. Sometimes the connection to an object is nostalgic, for family, a friend, or places I've travelled to. Other times it is about function, and creating daily moments where all the details are taken care of. It has to feel good to use. Building Tessuti's offering is like building my own home, I have to love it, and want to share it.
Storytelling is a big part of why we gravitate towards a designer or object. It enriches the result, and comes already imbued with its own history. This is also why we devote time to gathering these stories from our makers, both locally and abroad, visiting their studios and ateliers, and taking notes and photographs to share with our community. It's an important responsibility, to relay the designer's thoughts.
Having had personal experience in hospitality, food and wine are a happy space for me. I am inspired by some of our local offerings, such as Lillian and Blue, their spaces feel warm, inviting, and consistently delicious. It's like going to your best friend's house and not having to cook! Our team loves to go to restaurants, to show our support to those putting themselves and their craft out into the world. It is no easy feat!
Maybe it's more that I love to be curious, and the great pleasure I have always had in entertaining that drives me to continue shaping Tessuti. Our focus has always been on heritage pieces— glassware, ceramics, linens— artisanal homewares that celebrate craft and technique. I enjoy the editing as much as I enjoy the sourcing.
Images left to right.
Lilian, Public Record, Blue On Franklin, Blue On Franklin, San Ray.
Grey Lynn Farmers Market (Every Sunday morning 8.30am - 12pm)510 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn @greylynnfarmersmarket Best fresh local produce, baking, coffee and more. Community owned and operated, and always busy. Bring cash!
Public Record - Art Gallery/Shop82 Ponsonby Road, Grey Lynn (10am - 4pm, closed Sunday) @public_rocord_ I don't get to shop very often, but this is a favourite of mine to call into. Stocking an array of Japanese and New Zealand made homewares, artworks, clothing and decorative items. There is always something special to discover.
Westhaven Promenade Loop A delightful stroll with stunning harbour views, this is a very popular area for walking and running. Plenty of places to grab a coffee, or just stop and sit to take in the view. Blue for lunch and an afternoon refreshment: nectarine soda with sage.
San Ray 118 Ponsonby Road, Grey Lynn (no dinner on Mondays) A few doors down from me, this place offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a cozy and relaxed environment. Serving vibrant flavours of Southern California and Mexico, they cook over coals and wood fire, making everything delicious.
Lillian Osteria & Wine Bar (closed Sunday) 472 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn @lilian.akl A local favourite of mine, great atmosphere and cocktails, and consistently excellent food.
Blue Courtyard, Unit 1/1A Franklin Road, Ponsonby (closed Mondays & Tuesdays) Head to the outdoor patio to catch the last of the sun and enjoy a nectarine soda, or a fresh orange wine. Their snacking plates are sublime. They're open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Waiheke Day Trip Ferry Catch the ferry across the harbour (you might spot some dolphins!) and head into Waiheke Island. Taxis are available at the ferry and ready to take you to your destination.
There is so much to see and do that staying an extra night is also a great idea if time allows.
We have some favourites there.....
Casita Miro - Spanish-inspired restaurant and vineyard
Man O' War Tasting Room and Restaurant—the only beachfront cellar door on the island, Serving wood-fired pizza and fresh oysters among other things.
Poderi Crisci - Traditional Italian long lunch
The Bistro Allpress - Casual seasonal menu designed for sharing
And many more!