My Space: Auction consultant Fenella Tonkin on her happy place.

Cordy’s in Auckland is auction consultant and cataloguer Fenella Tonkin’s happy place

Describe the space: “A doublestorey building on Mt Eden Rd painted in black and white that used to be a furniture retailer so there are multiple showrooms, a mezzanine and a big storage basement. It’s large and open, light, airy with huge windows giving a view of the surrounding villas and trees. Bird life abounds and quite often we see a lovely big healthy kererū swoop past. I work in the mezzanine overlooking the main showroom and up into the trees outside.” What inspires you about the space? “Previously we worked in a somewhat Dickensian space, in a windowless back room crammed amongst antique china, crystal, paintings, silver and rugs. Now just to be able to look outside, to see the sun and blue sky of another gorgeous Auckland day is indescribable. Watching the streams of traffic and pedestrians going to work in the morning reminds me how lucky I am to be able to walk to work and have an amazingly interesting job.” What feelings does the space evoke? “I grew up in the neighbourhood and still live in Mt Eden. This is my ‘hood’ and it feels almost like working from home. I was always happy in my job before we moved but there is such a difference in my feelings about this space. We can now present beautiful pieces in their appropriate settings. We get to handle a plethora of antiques and collectables.” What’s with all the toast racks? “Over 400 in the collection! We’re auctioning them online in May with a percentage going to the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s Pink Ribbon Breakfast fundraiser. They’re perfect for a Pink Ribbon Breakfast with a slice or two of buttery toast. We painted the walls specially in Resene Gelato.” What is your role? “I catalogue items for our monthly antique auctions, particularly the jewellery. When I catalogue the jewellery I say: ‘I’m just going to the safe to roll around in the diamonds.’ I’ve always loved jewellery and antiques. I used to own an antiques shop for 20 years.”