ASK THE HOMEOWNER:

Jen, your home is huge! Did its size intimidate you initially? Our first home was actually a former photography studio, and this one reminded me so much of that, but on a larger scale. It appealed to me as a blank canvas – we didn’t really have to do much to it except decorate it to our taste. It’s been used as the set for lots of TV shoots and ads – what’s been the most memorable? Within a month of moving in, we were inundated with requests to use the space, just through word of mouth. Footage of a bedroom-styling competition for The Block NZ was shot here, which was a bit of fun. Where do you hunt for your furniture and homeware? I tend to slowly collect stuff over time, because I have to really love something before I buy it. I often shop at Flotsam & Jetsam and French Country Collections, and I like to get fresh flowers from our neighbours, Farro. I also love art – another of my favourite artists is Saskia Leek. I’m not always very practical – I just like having nice things to look at! But nothing is too precious, because with kids and pets our home is very much lived in and to be enjoyed. What advice would you give to others who are redecorating a generous space? I love having large spaces to decorate and I’ll often move things round. Here, the high ceiling creates a beautiful gallerylike atmosphere, and without the usual dividing walls, I’ve created different zones according to how each space is used – for example, arranging chairs beside the fire and the dining table by the sliding doors so it feels as if we’re eating outside.