Home Styling | Creating Sensory Spaces

Jumping back in to the Home Styling Series I started earlier this year, in today's post I'm going to talk about creating a home that appeals to the senses. Rather than focusing solely on the visual aspect of a space, this concept is about incorporating elements that are multi-sensory, to enhance the overall mood and feeling of your home. 

More than ever, in this increasingly digital age, we want our homes to provide a restorative effect where we can unwind and recharge. Sensory elements help us to relax and to be more present, whether we're sitting on the sofa reading a book, playing with kids or entertaining friends. To provide some ideas, I've picked out five of my favourite sensory elements to incorporate into your home. 

— Flowers —

Flowers are probably my number one go-to due to their multi-sensory appeal. Visually impactful, often with the added appeal of fragrance, flowers immediately inject life into a space. I tend to gravitate towards white and tonal florals with lots of greenery, but I also love experimenting with flowers that are in season. In celebration of Cymbidium Orchid season in NZ, I was recently sent a beautiful bouquet (pictured above) by Feel Good With Flowers.  Advocates of the New Zealand cut flower industry, I love that they encourage consumers to buy NZ grown. Flowers provide an easy way of bringing some colour into a neutral space, and the rich, vibrant colours of the orchids inspired me to pull out a cushion I had in storage that would tie in with the soft yellow centres of the flowers.  The beautiful arrangement below was a recent subscription delivery from Bloom Social, whose flowers always have a gorgeous 'freshly picked from the garden' feel.

I also like to bring nature indoors with dried flowers and house plants which you can see popping up around our home below. Not only do plants visually enhance interior spaces, they improve the quality of the air and are mood boosting. 

— Natural Light —

Making use of natural light is another way to enhance the sensory feel of a space. I love seeing how the light changes from season to season in our home. I'll often play on this element when styling (notice the touches of sun in the images above), but I also like to let the light in as much as possible during the day because I find it so uplifting. Our Luxaflex Silhouette blinds are great for filtering light, and we can adjust them to suit, day and night. 

— Home Fragrance — 

Home fragrance is another sensory staple of mine, and I always have a few scented candles on rotation from my favourite brands. Depending on the scent, they can be calming, uplifting or create a cosy ambiance.  I talk more about how I 'style with scent' in this interview with Jo Malone London. 

The candle above is a beautiful collaboration between Lumira and Halcyon House.  Lumira also recently introduced their first room spray, featuring one of my favourite scents, Arabian Oud. 

— Food & Coffee Aromas —

Though taste is not usually a sense we talk about in relation to interiors, our home is where we cook, dine and entertain, so food is all part of the sensory experience. It's certainly an important one to me! Before we even taste food, the sight, smell and sound of a meal being prepared, or baking in progress makes a house feel like a home. I love coming home to the aromas of the slow cooker. And nothing beats the sound of the Nespresso machine, the smell of the coffee, or a cake baking in the oven. 

Some recent styling collaborations with Nespresso, I love creating coffee moments in the comfort of my own home.

— Tactile Products —

Increasing tactility is one of the best ways to bring some zen to your home, and if you're not convinced, there's science to prove it. When we're hugged or we stroke our pet, the 'feel-good' hormone oxytocin is released, lowering stress levels and boosting overall health. Switching off from technology and re-connecting with our sense of touch through tactile surrounds has never been more important for our mental wellbeing. Think natural textiles that provide a 'cocoon-like' feel such as linen and wool. These can easily be introduced through cushions, bedding and throws. Choose tactile furniture finishes in wood, rattan, soft velvet or textural upholstery and use rugs to create a cosy feel underfoot. For finishing touches look for ceramic, marble or stone pieces (especially those made from hand) and materials that develop a patina with age.  

Copenhagen-based ceramicist Robynn Storgaard sent me one of her beautiful hand-made ceramic cups, sitting here on the Oak and upholstered Baenk bench by Danish brand Woud. 

This tactility can be applied to every room in the home. Our walk-in and ensuite includes marble trays and soft wool jumpers, a rustic wood stool and textural linen towel. 

To read more from the Home Styling series, take a look here and here. 

All images: Styling and photography by Michelle Halford / TDC 


This post contains gifted products. I only work with products I love and all opinions are my own. For more information please visit my About Page.

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An Unforgettable Trip to Tasmania with David Jones for The Art of Living

With a huge sense of excitement, I set off on my first ever trip to Tasmania last week with David Jones. In celebration of The Art of Living we were treated to an incredible journey of discovery at Australia's leading contemporary museum, MONA. Spread across two days, the event consisted of a series of immersive experiences showcasing the best of David Jones fashion, beauty, food and home. With the main focus on homeware, I've put together a summary of highlights from this unforgettable trip. 

Travelling in style with Samsonite Lite-Cube DLX suitcase and Bose Quietcomfort 35 Wireless Headphones from David Jones 

Arriving in Hobart Monday night I checked into the Maylands Lodge, which is set within one of Tasmania's finest heritage properties. Settling in to my beautiful suite, I was delighted to discover a welcome pack that included a gorgeous Waverley Alpaca Throw and luxury Sheridan robe from David Jones.

My home for two nights, Maylands Lodge

Known for offering superior products and services across national and international brands in fashion, beauty, food, technology, and homewares, the iconic Australian department store celebrated its 180th anniversary in 2018. David Jones is also the oldest continuously operating department store in the world still trading under its original name. With 45 stores as well as an online store, including its first international store in Wellington New Zealand, I'm very excited about the Auckland store set to open later this year.

Waverley Throw and Sheridan Bathrobe from David Jones

On Tuesday morning we set off on the ferry, which took us up the River Derwent, direct to the stairs of MONA. Greeted by contemporary performers, followed by a welcome speech by David Jones ambassador Adam Goodes, we were then led to through to the beautiful MONA eatery, The Source. 

Aboard the quirky new Mona MR-II Ferry

An awe-inspiring table setting that included elaborate foliage, shells, bones and 62 edible elements set the scene for The Art of Entertaining. With a focus on food and home, the gourmet four-course lunch designed by chef Vince Trim showcased an incredible array of Tasmanian produce, local winemakers and artisan distillers. Inspired by nature, the extravagant meal included Confit Tasmanian salmon, summer vegetables and Slow cooked Robbins Island sirloin, stunning cheese platters with Tasmanian honey, and a decadent dessert featuring Lark whisky & hazelnut black pearl with textures of chocolate and late summer berries. And yes, it was all as heavenly as it sounds! 

Dinnerware by Robert Gordon for David Jones with Glassware from Riedel and the David Jones collection, Cutlery from the David Jones collection 

Exquisitely presented, the food was served on the new David Jones dinnerware collection, designed in collaboration with Robert Gordon. The hand-made pieces feature warm, neutral tones and an organic feel, perfectly suited to the nature-themed lunch. These were paired with elegant glassware from the Riedel and David Jones collection, along with cutlery from the David Jones collection.

'The Art of Entertaining' lunch at The Source, MONA 

With new Wireless Speakers from Bang & Olufsen providing stellar sounds, the lunch also featured a an artistic display of homewares showcasing new collection pieces from Georg Jensen and Dinosaur Designs. A huge fan of these brands, I loved how the textural elements of the designs were enhanced by the unique outdoor installation. A third display featured Robert Gordon sculptural pieces custom-made especially for the launch. From start to finish, the lunch was an incredible sensory experience. 

Wireless speakers by Bang & Olufsen from David Jones 

Georg Jensen pieces, now available from David Jones

New pieces from Dinosaur Designs, available end of  February from David Jones

Bespoke pieces created by Robert Gordon for 'The Art of Entertaining' art display (not for sale)

Following the lunch and a guided-tour of the MONA gallery, we headed back to our hotels to get ready for the evening event, The Art of Fashion. Located at MONA'S The Void, the textured sandstone walls in this part of the museum are truly spectacular. Providing the perfect backdrop for the dazzling runway showcasing the best of international and Australian new season designer collections, this was followed by a progressive cocktail experience. An incredible evening with unexpected twists (in true MONA Style) I've shared some memorable moments over on my Instagram Story Highlights. 

The scarified sandstone walls inside the Void at MONA and seating for the David Jones Runway 'The Art of Fashion'

On the second day we headed back to MONA for the Art of Wellness. Soothing the mind, body and soul with a revitalising brunch, we had the pleasure of indulging in the beauty, fitness and lifestyle brands that David Jones has on offer. Located at Faro, within MONAS Pharos space, with floor to ceiling windows looking out on the Derwent, the dreamy views framed with incredible floral arrangements provided the perfect setting to reflect and re-energise.

Faro restaurant at MONA provided a tranquil setting for 'The Art of Wellness' 

Treated to a delicious brunch that included an amazing Japanese food selection and Juice Station with fresh juice by Vitamix, I loved how The Art of Wellness had a sustainable focus. Very much in fitting with David Jones' commitment to reducing their impact on the environment by eliminating any paper or plastic, the brunch included reusable Avanti stainless steel Waterbottles and Keepcup coffee cups, both available to purchase from David Jones.  

Delicious Japanese food overlooking the River Derwent

Guest speaker at the brunch, Australian actor, director and wellness warrior Theresa Palmer, shared some fantastic tips on wellness which I've been putting in to practise since arriving home. We were also guided through a breathing session - the perfect way to re-centre and reflect on our time in Tasmania. 

At home enjoying a Nespresso coffee in my reusable Keepcup from David Jones - perfect for on the go, it also suits our decor perfectly

I'll definitely be living off these memories for some time! 

To see more from the new season collections visit davidjones.com. 


Images1-4, 14-21 by Michelle Halford for TDC
Images 5-13 courtesy of David Jones

This is a sponsored post. I only work with products I love and all opinions are my own. For more information please visit my About Page.

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My Outdoor Styling for Viva

I recently styled an outdoor shoot for Viva at a beautiful private residence in Maraetai. Collaborating with local suppliers I had a lot of fun transforming the existing deck - a completely blank canvas - into an outdoor haven designed for Al Fresco dining. 

Though sunny, the clouds were ominous, and we were lucky to finish the shoot before a thunder storm set it! Fellow Kiwi residents will know all about the crazy weather we've been having of late! 

Here's an excerpt from the article where I talk about my approach to styling this space. 

“The way I approach styling an outdoor space is to see it as another room. How will it be used? For dining alfresco and hosting dinner parties? A place to relax with a book and coffee? Whether it will be used for lounging, dining, or both, it's important to consider how you want the space to function.

When it came to styling this outdoor space, I had plenty of room to combine the two. A blank canvas complete with stunning views of the countryside, the shape of the deck lent itself beautifully to modular furniture and for cohesion, I chose a dining table and bench seats in the same finish as the sofas. To define the areas and provide comfort underfoot, I placed an outdoor rug underneath the dining table. Being exposed (we all know the dangers of NZ’s harsh sun) an umbrella was a must. For the finishing touches I added a mix of outdoor plants, some beautiful tableware and a few extra scatter cushions for a touch of graphic fun and added comfort.”

Styling by Michelle Halford / Photography by Babiche Martins / Food Styling by Ashleigh Cometti  

Pop over to Viva to read my top four tips for styling an outdoor space. You'll also find more details on the products, food and wine, along with recipes for the delicious spread we created! 

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Christmas Dining with Father Rabbit and Jess' Underground Kitchen

I recently joined forces with Father Rabbit to create a festive dining setting with pieces from their beautiful Christmas dining collection. In true Father Rabbit style, we wanted to create a bright, warm and fuss-free setting. Christmas is a time for creating traditions, and we wanted to capture the feel of what this means - using those special pieces of dinnerware that have been passed down from generation to generation, and bringing out the Christmas tree decorations made lovingly by the kids from year to year. 

The Bordallo Pinheiro is one of my favourite collections from the Father Rabbit Christmas dining range. The distinctive green earthenware provides a pop of colour against the monochrome and features exquisite hand-painted detailing throughout. For this setting I chose the Cabbage Cheese Tray, Cabbage Bowls and Holly Teapot, which along with the Holly Cake Stand make the perfect Christmas dining accessories. 

Some of my other favourite pieces include the classic mid-century style oak and birch Malmo Chairs, the unique hand-blown Bilia Tumblers, and the Leaf Serveware, which pairs beautifully with the Bordallo range. When it came to choosing dinner and side plates, I found that Father Rabbit have an extensive selection ranging from fine bone china and classic white ceramic pieces through to muted off-white earthenware and organic shapes. It was a hard choice but I decided to go with the handcrafted Perla range which features a gorgeous raised dotted trim. The freshly picked-from-the-garden style flowers with a nod to Father Rabbit's popular Botanical printed linen are housed in the beautiful Rolled Edge Vase. 

Of course A Christmas dining setting wouldn't be complete without the festive feast, and Father Rabbit enlisted Jess' Underground Kitchen to create an inspiring spread from one of the delicious Christmas Hampers that are on offer. This was paired with the beautiful Serisin Chardonnay from WineFriend, which we served in the Plumm Vintage chardonnay glasses.

Styling by Michelle Halford-TDC in collaboration with Father Rabbit and JUK  

To see all that's on offer for Christmas Dining and beyond, visit Fatherrabbit.com. 

This post was created in collaboration with Father Rabbit. I only work with products I love and all opinions are my own. For more information please visit my About Page.

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Nespresso Master Origin Collection

Earlier this month, I attended a five-course degustation dinner with Nespresso and renowned chef and local culinary ambassador Josh Emett to mark the official launch of the Master Origin collection - five new and permanent coffees, inspired by the land.

Throughout the evening, which was filled of five delicious dishes inspired by the coffees unique story, Nespresso’s New Zealand Coffee Ambassador Mitch Monaghan delivered the evening alongside Emett to explain Nespresso’s ability and incredible process for how these coffees were sourced from the world's finest coffee growing regions — Colombia, India, Indonesia, Nicaragua and Ethiopia. Together the duo explained how each coffee has been on its own unique journey of discovery, resulting in individual aromas and tastes reminiscent of that country of origin.

Over the last couple of weeks, I've continued to enjoy and taste the new range while learning more about the fascinating techniques, methods and traditions that differentiate these coffees from one another. Today I'm going to share a little bit about what I've discovered, along with my favourite Master Origin coffees. 

When Nespresso embarked on its journey to create these new curations, coffee experts spent a great deal of time working with local farming experts in each of the five regions; Indonesia, Colombia, India, Ethiopia, Indonesia and Nicaragua, learning about each country’s innovative and demanding farming practices.

In Ethiopia for example, local coffee farmers meticulously rake coffee beans every hour by hand to ensure even drying; in Colombia, the typical harvest time was pushed to the limit — each coffee cherry was left on the tree, risking fermentation until it was exactly the right shade of deep purple to be picked. 

Whereas in Indonesia, farmers used a traditional and exceptionally local wet-hulling motion, whilst in Nicaragua, a sweet approach was taken musing the 'black honey' method which involves leaving the coffee bean in its natural fruit layer whilst it is drying allowing the coffee bean to soak up the natural sugars. 

And meanwhile, in India, the coffee sourced is exposed to an age-old monsoon technique that was once a natural occurrence when coffee was transported by boat. The beans experience rough high winds and take on lots of moisture from the sea salt, which make them swell and reveal a unique spicy flavour.

The Master Origin coffees range from 4 to 11 in terms of intensity. And while I prefer Nespresso coffees with a high intensity, I've found that the less intense Master Origin coffees are very enjoyable due to their robust flavour. What's more, the coffees can be enjoyed as both an espresso (40ml) and lungo (110ml) offering lots of versatility in the type of coffee I prepare for myself or visitors. When combined with milk, their unique aromas blend seamlessly into a creamy cappuccino, velvety flat white, or my favourite, a delicious piccolo.

The first of my two favourite Master Origin coffees is Indonesia. With an intensity of 8, the "wet hulled" method used to produce Indonesia creates a distinctly rich, velvety texture. To fully savour the wild, woody taste I like to prepare this coffee with just a dash of milk. 

My second favourite is India due to its high intensity and full bodied, spicy flavour which has been achieved by a challenging post-harvest 'monsooning' technique done by Indian coffee masters. A powerfully complex and aromatic coffee, I find this makes the perfect flat white or piccolo.

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

The five coffees which will also be a permanent addition to the Nespresso coffee range are now available from Nespresso boutiques nationwide and online. 

Remember to always recycle your used Nespresso capsules by dropping them of at one of the recycling points nationally. Find your closest recycling points by visiting www.nespresso.com.

This is a sponsored post. I only work with products I love and all opinions are my own. For more information please visit my About Page.

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