esdesign

One From the Archives - 'Ohtel'

2012-02-10T11:21:00.000+13:00

Did you know that 4 years ago, esdesign were the team who helped pull together the interior fit out of the then new hotel, 'Ohtel' on Oriental Parade, Wellington?

We worked closely with designer and hotel owner Alan Blundell to create his vision of a boutique 10 room, mid century flavoured destination accommodation spot.

No two rooms are alike, with each featuring an eclectic range of mid century furniture sourced from all over the world. Once all the furniture had made it's way to NZ, we were responsible for specifying all the interior colours, fabrics, lighting, flooring and finishes for each of the rooms and lobby/dining area, as well as co-ordinating and carrying out the upholstery and restoration work for all the furniture pieces. It was all topped off by styling each room with the myriad of mid century ceramics and artwork Alan had painstakingly collected with the hotel in mind.

Go and treat yourself to a weekend in the coolest little 'Ohtel' in Wellington to check it out first hand!

Images from www.ohtel.com

Feature Fabric Friday: Florence Broadhurst

2012-02-10T10:07:00.002+13:00

Many of you have heard of the fabulous Australian artist, textile and wallpaper designer Florence Broadhurst who was creating divine interiors product in the 50's, 60's and 70's, but did you know that both her fabrics and papers are still being printed today?

Even after her grizzly death in 1977, Signature Prints has continued to produce a range of her designs from their Sydney premises, ensuring her iconic Asian and nature inspired, geometric and metallic patterns are still available worldwide. There are over 500 different designs within the original collection of work, but only a small portion are currently available to the public.

The softer colours and delicacy of the nature inspired scenes in many of the fabrics lend themselves to adorning a feminine boudoir, dressing or powder room, while the bold metallic wallpapers and geometric fabrics lend themselves to use in glamorous commercial environments, family areas or even kids rooms - but of course you are only limited by your imagination!

Here are just a few of our favourite fabrics, and of course if you see something you like, let us know!

All images from www.signatureprints.com.au.
Images are from top to bottom, left to right: 'The Cranes', 'Peacock Feathers', 'Pagoda', 'Peacock Feathers', 'Ikeda', 'Fingers', 'Japanese Floral', 'Horses Stampede'.

Pedro Lamp Bases

2012-02-09T10:10:00.000+13:00

Have you seen our turned 'Pedro' lamp bases? They are reminiscent of the kind that many of us grew up with in our homes, but these ones come in slick black or white paint finishes to contrast superbly with the shade of your choice!

Pictured here is a shade in 'Rings' by Ingrid Anderson on a white table lamp base, and a shade in 'Birch' by Ink & Spindle on our black floor lamp base.

'Woodgrain' fabric - Dick Frizzell

2012-02-08T14:35:00.002+13:00

Hot off the press from Homebase Collections is this great new print by NZ artist Dick Frizzell, called 'Woodgrain'. It is printed on a lovely basecloth mix of hemp and organic cotton, suitable for light upholstery and accessories and comes in two colourways above - grey and gold.

We plan on doing some fun things with this fabric in store soon, so watch this space!

Retro Lamps

2012-02-08T10:21:00.001+13:00

We've recently revived some tired old lamp bases and teamed them with fantastic retro flavoured shades to create these cute babies, for sale now in the store!

Plates on a Wall

2012-02-07T07:00:00.000+13:00

Here's a fun round up of imagery showing the many ways you can use plates to dress up your walls!
Monochrome, contrasting, bright, fun or random. Scatter them haphazardly, line them up neatly or display them symmetrically... the options are endless, but they are such a great way to inject pattern, colour and interest into a blank space! Check out the links below each image to find more inspiring images and ideas for your crockery...

http://www.fixthefield.com/decorate-a-wall-using-plates/

http://thedecorologist.com/wp/collective-soul-plate-collages-the-art-of-creative-plate-hanging

http://crystalestrada.blogspot.co.nz/2011/11/home-decor-ideas-plates-on-walls.html

http://www.homedit.com/how-to-hang-plates-on-a-wall-to-create-an-eye-catching-look/

http://myblackbook.free.fr/?cat=22

http://jayjayne.com/author/jayjayne/

http://www.ruthburts.com/2011/09/lets-dish-again-some-visual-101.html

http://heartfireathome.blogspot.co.nz/2010/06/who-else-likes-plates-on-wall.html

FAQ

2012-02-06T12:12:00.001+13:00

We've just added a Frequently Asked Questions button down the side to your right - this should hopefully cover some of those burning questions that you have, but of course if there's something not covered in there, feel free to ask!

Second Hand Delights

2012-02-06T10:00:00.000+13:00

Because of our love of recycling, re-using and re-purposing, we have become very accustomed to taking what others might think are hideous pieces of junk, and incorporating them and transforming them into fabulous interior schemes.

This electrical heater probably screams junk to many of you, but during one of our trips to the Wairarapa in early January, Eleanor spotted this beauty (complete with 'glowing coals') in the back of a second hand store. It is perfect for a job we are currently working on, and we can't wait to show you how it's going to fit in with our 'master plan'!

Watch this space, and keep an open mind!!

Waitangi Monday: Little Dragon 'Crystalfilm'

2012-02-06T09:00:00.000+13:00

Found this over at one of our favourite blogs House of Aroha... Hope your're enjoying your Waitangi weekend, Kiwis!

In the Media: Dominion Post - Feb 4th, 2012

2012-02-04T15:36:00.002+13:00

The lovely Charlotte Minty just alerted us to this neat little article in the Dominion Post this morning; it features a little bit about Eleanor and her thoughts on recycling pre-loved furniture. Awesome!

Notable Notebooks

2012-02-03T08:41:00.001+13:00

We've just replenished our stock of Ellen Giggenbach notebooks, seeing as you guys snapped the first lot up so fast before Christmas! (Ellen has a fabulous blog featuring her cut paper art, go check it out!).

The notebooks come in two great designs, and make perfect stocking stuffers (if you're super nuts and prepping for next Christmas!) or birthday pressies or treats for yourself. At $12.50, you can't go wrong!

These notebooks plus many other goodies are made by the lovely folks at Letterhead, producers and distributors of cards and notebooks featuring the work of New Zealand artists.

Wharekauhau - Custom Furniture Design

2012-02-03T08:25:00.000+13:00

As part of our work at Wharekauhau last year, we commissioned the manufacture of some macrocarpa stools which also double as small side tables in the accommodation cottages.

The design references a traditional milking stool which is in keeping with the coastal farming region surrounding the Wharekauhau estate.
The stool tops had the Wharekauhau branding logo laser-cut into the seats to create pieces which are truly unique to the lodge.

The stools were beautifully created by Sebastian at Splinters and Pixels.

Feature Fabric Friday: Melody Miller

2012-02-03T08:09:00.000+13:00

We are going gaga over these gorgeous printed cottons by Melody Miller. These are perfect for lampshades, cushions, stool tops and other small projects... let your imagination run wild!
Speak to us today about ordering some of these great designs.

All images found over at Stitchbird!

Ngaio Rue Jewellery - New Stock

2012-02-02T09:45:00.001+13:00

We've just received some new stock from the fabulous Ngaio Rue! These pieces are hand tatted into intricately detailed necklaces, pendants and earrings and are proving to be extremely popular, so pop in today to take home your very own piece of hand crafted goodness, all the way from Waiheke Island!

Studio Sneak Peek: Esther Miro

2012-02-02T07:59:00.001+13:00

Have a little sneak peek at the studio of super talented kiwi swimwear designer Esther Miro from Surface Too Deep - her sunny spot overlooking Wellington features lots of lovely bits and bobs from esdesign, and we think she got such a lovely write up by the peeps over at ASOS Marketplace... check it out!

Interior Fit Out - Wharekauhau Lodge, Wairarapa

2012-02-01T16:37:00.000+13:00

As promised before Christmas, here are just a couple of gorgeous images of the re-fit of Wharekauhau Lodge which kept us super busy last year!

This included specification of lighting, curtaining, upholstery, finishes, colours, artwork and fittings, as well as full cabinetry and furniture design as you can see in the above image of the new library. A really fantastic job to work on!

Parker Knoll Upholstery - Beach Stripe

2012-02-01T12:01:00.000+13:00

Here's a new addition to our store this week; a fabulously restored curve arm Parker Knoll chair, re-upholstered in a fantastic multi-coloured cotton stripe. This chair has a relaxed, beachy vibe, perfect for the bach or seaside home, or just a wonderfully sunny spot in your house!

Wallpaper Wednesday: Amy Butler

2012-02-01T11:00:00.003+13:00

Some delicious wallpapers from the mega talented designer Amy Butler... bright, fresh and available through us today!

Marimekko Upholstery

2012-02-01T09:33:00.001+13:00

An oldie but a goodie from our upholstery archive - a great fireside chair re-upholstered in Marimekko 'Unikko'.

'Nature Nurture' - Squabs

2012-01-31T13:21:00.001+13:00

We've just made three gorgeous squabs in one of our favourite fabrics 'Nature Nurture' from Homebase Collections - getting packed up and ready to be sent to a client in Australia... another fantastic NZ fabric will soon be sitting in style on a window seat in Melbourne!

One From the Archives - 60's Kitchen Design

2012-01-31T11:59:00.000+13:00

Here's one of our favourite interior projects from a few years back... This client wanted to update their existing 1960's kitchen to function in the modern day with two small children, but still retain certain elements of the original retro vibe.

New cabinetry components were combined with existing, and the kitchen was reconfigured to include a study nook and booth diner seating, then we helped top it off with great colours, finishes and retro fittings to create a truly unique area for family gatherings.

The piece de resistance is the feature wall at the back of the kitchen, featuring hand screen printed wallpaper by Kapiti designer Bridey Farrell.

Lighten Up

2012-01-31T11:01:00.000+13:00

Today we're bringing you a quick mini round up of our current favourite lamps, shades and pendants...

1: PS Maskros pendant - Mykea 2: 'Z' Lamp - Iko Iko 3: Fly - Backhouse 4: Urban pendant - Stacks 5: Joug Dandelion - esdesign 6: Nautilus shade - Iconic 7: Bebob pendant - Iconic 8: Chandelier Linea - Iconic 9: Dog lamp - Iconic 10: Tripode G5 floor lamp - ECC

Ruby Boutique Upholstery

2012-01-30T14:04:00.000+13:00

A sweet little upholstery job just completed for Ruby Boutique in Wellington - some great piped and buttoned squabs for their changing rooms.
We added velcro to the undersides to hold them in place but still enable removal for cleaning underneath, and they're made from a chocolate raisin coloured 'Macrohide' fabric, which means they can be scrubbed of all marks and stains. Practical too! Hooray!

Music Monday: Gotye 'Smoke & Mirrors'

2012-01-30T10:13:00.002+13:00

Some delicious music from Gotye for your Monday morning. Ciao!

Re-upholstered Dining Chairs

2012-01-28T10:58:00.002+13:00

Here's another 'before and after' for your Saturday morning! Have a look at these seats that we've given new life using Warwick 'Bells Beach'.

Shop 'Til You Drop!

2012-01-27T16:27:00.001+13:00

You may have noticed some little tweaks and changes going on around our blog lately - a new year, a new look and all that!
One huge addition is a link to our new online shop! We have had lots of queries from you 'out of townies' to see what we've got for sale in the store, so now you can buy from the comfiness of your couch!

We will be uploading new product over the next couple of weeks so keep checking back - but for now, take note that there is a button to your right... yup... that's it... that will take you straight to the online store.

Enjoy!

Mid Century Palm Springs

2012-01-27T08:00:00.001+13:00

Check out this great post over at Poppytalk - showcasing all sorts of delicious images from a mid century vibed visit to Palm Springs!

Webbed Jens Risom Style Chairs

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000+13:00

Check out this pair of fabulous 1950's Jens Risom style beech frame chairs that we've just had re-webbed and re-polished...now looking for a new home!

Mattressed & Buttoned Squab

2012-01-26T08:30:00.000+13:00

Here's a little peek at a project that kept us very busy on the run up to Christmas!

This is a squab for a window seat, but finished off with hand stitched mattress edging and buttoning to give it a traditional look. The gorgeous fabric is called 'Weybridge' by Sanderson.

Devine, no?

Wallpaper Wednesday - World Maps

2012-01-25T10:41:00.000+13:00

Have you seen these great world map murals? Fantastic for use in just about any room of the house; we've seen them used in kids rooms, play rooms, bathrooms and beach houses!

Here's an example of a vintage map used in the dining room of a beach side house we worked on a few years ago in Eastbourne, so you can see how they can act as a great alternative to artwork or regular wallpaper!

Our favourite designs are the classic and vintage (top), and cost $595 for the full mural, covering an area of 3752mm W x 2274mm H.

Pop in and speak to us about ordering!

Chair Restoration - Some Oldies & Goodies

2012-01-24T10:39:00.000+13:00

Just a bit of reflection on some of the fun projects we've worked on over the last year or two... you may have seen these before, you may not, but always good to reminisce. We're hoping for some more great chair makeovers this year!

Wing-back Rocking Armchair

2012-01-23T09:30:00.000+13:00

How cool is this wing-back rocker that we've just had re-upholstered for a client of ours? It's so much fun to mix and match plain textured fabrics with bold prints. Keeps life interesting!

Craft Friday: Stool Tops & Cushions

2012-01-20T15:50:00.000+13:00

We love to spend Friday afternoons creating - it's nice to step away from the computer and get stuck into some real hands on work! And today was no exception.

Here are three projects from today; a reupholstered top for a small chrome leg stool, another for a larger wire frame stool and some cushions for a client from fantastic vintage fabric. What a productive afternoon!

Brit O'Hara 'Meandering Summer' - Final Release

2012-01-19T07:54:00.000+13:00

We had so much success last year with Brit O'Hara's textile print 'Meandering Summer' - that we have managed to weasel a tiny bit more fabric out of her for one last run of cushions. Hooray!

There are four, yes only FOUR cushions remaining, and we can assure you there definitely won't be any more of this print anytime soon!

For those of you who missed our post last year, 'Meandering Summer' features stylised scenes from Wellington's iconic Oriental Parade. You can just feel summer oozing out of this print, we love it!

It's first in, first served, so come and grab some cushies today!

Wallpaper Wednesday: Cole & Son 'Woods'

2012-01-18T10:24:00.000+13:00

http://housewears.blogspot.com/2009_01_01_archive.html.

http://greenhousevt.blogspot.com/2009/03/cole-son-woods-wallpaper.html

http://ceceandco.blogspot.com/2009_06_01_archive.html

http://remodelista.com/products/woods-wallpaper

I think you may have spotted this fabulous wallpaper lately in a lot of design magazines and blogs, because you savvy design lovers have been asking us for it a lot over the last few months! It is called 'Woods' by Cole & Son, and features a fabulously graphic black and white design of floor to ceiling tree trunks, en mass creating the illusion of being... in the woods! It works brilliantly in a range of rooms, styles and teamed with almost any colour you can think of. Just another great way to add interest, depth and texture to an otherwise flat space.

Make like a monkey, swing through the trees and order it through us today!

- Roadie with the esdesign team -

2012-01-17T11:04:00.000+13:00

Yesterday we made the mission out to Masterton to check out our massive chair archive!

We have hundreds of beautiful retro chairs just waiting to become fun projects...

We have a stunning Morris chair, Cintique chairs, Don chairs and sofa, 60's wire frame stools and a ridiculous collection of other unique 60's and 70's style chairs. These are ALL available for the taking and photo documented.

If your're looking for something in particular give us a bell. You never know, we might just have what you are looking for!

Feature Fabric Friday: 'Punjab Peacock'

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000+13:00

One of our favourite fabrics at the moment is 'Punjab Peacock' - a gorgeous peacock feather print with a touch of metallic embroidery to glam it up!

As you can see, we love to go mad layering colours and prints so it works superbly in a bright scheme, but would be equally delicious in a more toned down scenario using one of the other two colour ways.

No upholstery work with this folks; it's for shades, drapery and soft furnishings only. Pop on in to see the sampling!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-12T09:59:00.000+13:00

Happy New year everyone, we hope you've all managed to find some sunshine, pop your feet up and relax a bit! We are now back on board, slowly gearing up for what's hopefully going to be a really productive 2012!

For those of you who are keen to pop in and see us, sit tight, as this week and a bit of next we are squirreling away behind the scenes doing a bit of housekeeping! From Tuesday onward next week, we'll be here every day so you're welcome to pop in!

Feature Fabric Friday - Sneak preview of High Society

2011-12-23T10:14:00.000+13:00

Here's a Chrissy present from us to all our lovely clients, customers, blog readers and followers; a sneak preview of the new retro vibed 'High Society' fabric collection, available at the end of January!

It's Nearly Christmas...!

2011-12-20T16:36:00.000+13:00

Just a few days left until Christmas, so it's time to update you all on our comings and goings over the Christmas break!

We are closed off now for all new curtaining, upholstery and general sewing room jobs. Chelsea is now going to be manning the fort until midday Saturday so that you can get your last minute gifts, then we will be closed until Monday the 16th of January.

One or two more posts before the break, then we'll see you in the New Year! Have a great one!

Feature Fabric Friday: 'Veracruz'

2011-12-16T09:34:00.000+13:00

We've decided to start up a little feature for Fridays, and introduce you to some of our favourite fabrics.

Up today is 'Veracruz', a gorgeous pocket weave fabric featuring an array of quirky creatures.

It comes in some lovely colourways, and is most suited for cushions and light upholstery. Contact us today if you'd like to find out more!

Interior Fit-Out at Wharekauhau Lodge, Wairarapa

2011-12-12T14:11:00.001+13:00

For the last 12 months, we have had the fabulous experience of being involved with the interior fit-out of Wharekauhau Lodge & Country Estate on the Southern coast of the Wairarapa. Wharekauhau has now just been listed on the 2012 Gold list of the Conde Nast Traveller, in the category of Ambience & Design.We are pleased as punch to see some of our work rubbing shoulders with some of the best hotels and lodges in the world!

Our work included the design of custom pieces of furniture and inbuilt cabinetry, specification of colours, curtains, fabrics, flooring, homewares, lighting, artwork, wallpaper and the manufacture of a range of soft furnishings, not to mention the co-ordination of all of the above. It has kept us very busy as you can imagine!

We will have more images of the fantastic results coming soon, so stay tuned!

Yellow Lovin' Before and After

2011-12-02T12:00:00.001+13:00

Look at this fantastic chair that has been upholstered for one of our clients... they had assistance from the fabulously talented Wellington Interior Designer Charlotte Minty - check out her blog here!

This chair started out with us as one of many in our stored collection of pre-loved goodies, and now has a new lease on life and a new home to boot!

We love it - such a perfect summery yellow for the summery weather we've been having lately!

Lost Storm - Carpet & Cushions

2011-12-02T11:20:00.001+13:00

Here's some more goodness from the lovely ladies at Sensational Floors - we have mentioned the 'Lost Storm' rug and cushion design before, but thought we'd share with you some great imagery of the design in situ! Remember that 'Lost Storm' can be custom designed to fit any size rug and in any colour, so speak to us today about how to make this happen!

Images from http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sensational-Floors/227456883947114

Parker Knoll Restoration

2011-12-01T15:55:00.001+13:00

We've just restored a pair of gorgeous Parker Knoll chairs, covering them in this fabulous Sanderson retro fabric. Check 'em out in store now!

Hemptech: David Trubridge Textile Design

2011-11-30T10:28:00.001+13:00

We have just received sampling for the new collection of textiles from Hemptech called 'Rings', designed by the iconic NZ designer David Trubridge.

'Rings, colours and patterns are inspired by landscapes photographed by David on his adventures around the world. “The photos are the only trace I have of my time in these places. On the aeroplane coming home, I’d often draw expressive ‘doodles’ as an attempt to create, in a sort of meditative process, something of my feeling for the rhythms and patterns of nature.”

Pop in today to check out this gorgeous summery printed linen, available in both drapery and upholstery weight!

(All images and quote from Hemptech)

Minty + Co

2011-11-24T15:01:00.001+13:00

Today we wanted to introduce you to a new project by fellow Wellington interior designer, Charlotte Minty.

She has a lovely new online store, Minty & Co, full of delicious goodies that she has sourced from around the world. A great place to peruse for Christmas pressie ideas, so check it out!

Stephanie Cahorel

2011-11-24T08:53:00.001+13:00

It's that time of year again, which means we've got new product in store so that you have lots of options for pressies - which includes a whole range of new brooches, earrings and necklaces by ceramicist Stephanie Cahorel!

We're On the Radio!!

2011-11-18T16:34:00.001+13:00

Tune in to National Radio this Sunday (November 20th) at 1.50pm to hear us on the radio during 'Arts on Sunday'! (Check your frequency here.)

Hit The White

2011-11-18T16:28:00.001+13:00

Check out the blog for creative collective Hit The White, popping up soon in Wellington!

Massive Fabric Sale

2011-11-10T14:06:00.002+13:00

FABRIC SALE!!!! Have we got your attention!??

We have got so much fabric knocking around esdesign at the moment that we have decided to sell it. ALL of it! If you've ever popped in to see us you know that we are not exaggerating when we say we are bursting at the seams with it!

On the 19th of November, we are having a stall at the Frank Kitts Underground Market in Wellington. There are some mega bargains to be had - a lot of fabric is severely discounted from it's original price. Once it's gone, it's gone, so this will be your chance!

There will be a range of fabric; from small $5 bundles suitable for quilting and crafting and kids projects, through to large meterage still on the roll, perfect for small curtaining jobs or roman blinds, and a lot of upholstery. We are parting with some of our favourite fabrics including gorgeous Sanderson, Hemptech and Mokum designs, amongst many many others. There will also be some vintage fabric in amongst it all. Don't miss out! Come and see us at the market. Put it in your diaries. November 19th!

Fuchsia and Blue Cushions

2011-11-09T11:52:00.000+13:00

It's a dreary day in Wellington today, so we've warmed things up with a summery cocktail of fuchsia velvet leaves backed in and piped with turquoise blue to make some delicious cushions!

An Urbis Mention

2011-11-07T16:37:00.000+13:00

Well we're a couple of issues behind the 8-ball here, but we just discovered some sweet blog lovin' in issue 63 of Urbis. Thanks guys! (And it's OK, 'finess' isn't really our thing anyways, but exuberance definitely is!) :p

Crown Lynn Cushions

2011-11-04T11:17:00.001+13:00

A range of designer Crown Lynn cushions and aprons by NZ company Whack & Blite, in store now!

Wanaka Living

2011-11-03T16:44:00.003+13:00

This week we have become stockists for Wanaka Living. Come in and check out our luscious sheepskin rug and quirky cushioned stones, and don't forget to ask us about their shaggy sheepskin beanbags!

Chelsea Chelsea Chelsea!

2011-11-03T16:26:00.000+13:00

Hello hello!

My name's Chelsea, I am fresh out of design school after completing a Bachelor In Creative Technology degree at Weltec. Luckily for me, after working part time at ES Design all year I have been offered a full time position which I have started this week. I am very excited to be here and working with such a great group of ladies. Pop in and say hi, there are lots of new faces for me to meet :)

Check out this article from the Petone Herald to read a bit about me and the things I'm interested in!

Sanderson Bloomsbury Canvas, Dalloway & Orlando

2011-10-31T13:12:00.004+13:00

A great new collection of fabrics from Sanderson has arrived on the scene! Take a look at these delicious images below to see the artistically inspired fabric and wallpaper designs for this new range. Meow!!

Lost Storm Fold-Up Chair

2011-10-18T08:52:00.001+13:00

Here's another fabulous use for the Sensational Floors 'Lost Storm' cushion fabric - we have upholstered this sweet little fold-up chair for a client of ours in the teal on natural colour way.

Devine, no?

So Long! Farewell!

2011-10-10T10:30:00.001+13:00

On Friday we very sadly said goodbye to the lovely Sean who has been a bright and bubbly face here at esdesign for the last 3 years! He is off to persue his own endeavors and we are so excited for him, though we will miss him here a lot, as I'm sure a lot of our lovely customers will too! We can't wait to see what he gets up to in the next wee while...

Don Chair Re-Upholstery

2011-10-10T10:19:00.001+13:00

This re-vamp has been one of our favourites for quite a while - the client chose to have their Don chair recovered in a fabric called Romo 'Corolla', and we love how the blue colouring of the fabric contrasts so well with the warm timber colouring in the chair frame. The pattern on the fabric is suggestive of a retro print, perfect for the age of this chair.

'Lost Storm' Rug

2011-09-30T16:20:00.001+13:00

Look at this amazing rug, designed by Sheree Davis, available through esdesign in custom colours and sizes.

We love it!

Colour Block Tiki

2011-09-27T09:10:00.002+13:00

We've just received some tiki blocks from Bob Steiner, in fabulous bright, citrus colours for summer! Come and grab one now!

Kelly Olatunji - Textile Design

2011-09-22T12:10:00.000+12:00

Here's an article about this years esdesign sponsored Massey design graduate Kelly Olatunji.

Kelly was the winner of this years supreme Zonta Design Award for her fabulous skills in textile design, with her award providing her with mentoring from our very own Eleanor Steel!

Go Kelly! Can't wait to see the fabulous things she creates in the near future!

Osborne & Little: Komodo Wallpaper

2011-09-19T15:00:00.000+12:00

Check out these new wallpapers from Osborne & Little -an exotic lizard printed on holographic foil to glittering jewel encrusted effect!

Anyone For Tea?

2011-09-19T10:35:00.002+12:00

Some new cushions delights from one of our favourite Stitchbird fabrics. So sweet!

Lost Storm Cushions

2011-09-16T08:46:00.000+12:00

Some more of the lovely colourways available in the 'Lost Storm' Cushion design. Order them through esdesign today!

First There Was Snow...And Now Hail!

2011-09-13T14:10:00.001+12:00

What is this weather doing!? Check out the hail we've got here at the moment, along with thunder, lightening... oh look! And now the sun's trying to come out! What the...!?

Rugby World Cup 2011 - One Positive

2011-09-09T08:08:00.000+12:00

For those of us who aren't so into this Rugby World Cup thing, we thought we'd share one of the positives that has come from all the hooplah...the view from esdesign at the moment... could be worse?

Yes that is rugby player Dan Carter... in his jocks...

Union Jack Fabric

2011-09-08T13:53:00.001+12:00

This just in! A new fabric from Pegasus, and of course, called 'Union Jack'. Great for cushions or curtaining, or even a funky occasional chair! It is $59.95 per metre and available through esdesign now!

Going Dotty - Fabrics

2011-09-07T09:20:00.000+12:00

Today we're rounding up some of our favourite fabrics featuring dots, spots and circles...and of course, if you see something you like, it's all available through esdesign today!

From top to bottom:

Rowe 'Spot On' duck egg $47.95 per metre

Pegasus 'Zone' jet $55.95 per metre

Living 'Zirconia' onyx $80.00 per metre

Villa Nova 'Muse' dijon $174.00 per metre

Warwick 'Hodge Podge' crayola $77.00 per metre

Ingrid Anderson 'Ring green print on cotton' $80.00 per metre

Pegasus 'Dots' pink $49.95 per metre

Ingrid Anderson 'Ring white print on linen' $140.00 per metre

Kate MacPherson Photography

2011-09-07T08:56:00.001+12:00

Just a little link up today to the stunning work of photographer Kate MacPherson.

We sought out this beautiful Westbury fabric for her to go on some chairs in her workspace - they look fabulous! Head on over to see more of her gorgeous work...

Making Up

2011-09-05T15:01:00.000+12:00

We are always asked how it is that we don't go mad with desire being surrounded by such wonderful fabrics all day, every day... and the answer to that is, well, sometimes we do! So we usually get our little crafty brains ticking over and set about making things out of some of the remnants we have. Our latest creative outburst has produced all these cute pencil cases and make-up bags, and they're for sale in the shop now! Come in and have a look!

Pan Pacific

2011-09-05T11:58:00.001+12:00

Have you guys seen this range of fabrics by Warwick?

The Pan Pacific collection is based around postage stamps, flour sacks, mail and that good old union jack that we've been seeing so much of over the last 12 months, mixed with some delicious stripes. All available through esdesign today!

Snow In Wellington

2011-08-17T07:45:00.000+12:00

We've been a little M.I.A the last few days, because of the snow! Here's a few piccies from Monday when the snow began to fall outside our windows at esdesign. It was so bizarre! I think (fingers crossed) the worst of it is over (although it has been a lot of fun too!) so two of the three of us are back on board, but poor Sean is still stuck in the Wairarapa! We hope to see him soon, and of course there are worse places he could be!

Full Circle Restoration

2011-08-09T08:20:00.000+12:00

We love it when people are bold and brave with their fabric choices, and here's an example of bold and brave in action! What was once a tired old chair is now a statement piece and ready for it's new home.

A Fresh Featherston

2011-08-02T10:39:00.000+12:00

A new lease on life for a great Featherston chair, off to its home at Ohtel!

Before & After: 1930's Chaise

2011-07-29T11:10:00.000+12:00

We have just had this fabulous 1930's chaise restored and re-upholstered for the shop! The fabric is called 'Tahiti' in a robin's egg colourway. How delicious does it look!?

Hot Hot Hot Fuchsia

2011-07-28T10:41:00.001+12:00

We've just completed this collection of cushions for a client of ours - bright pinks and fuchsias are so HOT right now, and you can't go wrong with a contrast of black. We love it!

Homestyle Magazine: August/September

2011-07-21T10:22:00.000+12:00

Have you got your copy of the August/September edition of Homestyle Magazine yet? Check us out once more in the 'Living Colour' article, it's full of terrific info on how to get bold and bright with colour!

Musical Thirst Thursday: Kimbra

2011-07-21T08:20:00.001+12:00

Just a little bit of Kimbra to get the grooves going today!

A New Collection: 'Nyssa'

2011-07-20T15:05:00.000+12:00

Thought we'd share a new fabric collection with you this afternoon - this one is called 'Nyssa' from Villa Nova, and features a fantastic range of bright, light and fresh patterning, along with a slightly retro feel to its hand drawn aesthetic. We can see this being used in so many different applications, from living room drapery and cushions through to lampshades and pink hues in a girly bedroom.

Sensational Floors: Cushions by Sheree Davis

2011-07-20T11:55:00.000+12:00

We have just added three new cushions to our showroom collection, designed by Sheree Davis (of 'Urban Hills' fame) and supplied by Sensational Floors - who produce lovely rugs too by the way!

Come in and see these bright beauties, they're sure to rid you of any winter blues!

Fiona Tunnicliffe Pottery - A Flock of Romneys

2011-07-13T11:21:00.000+12:00

Check out this flock of Romney sheep that we commissioned Putaruru potter Fiona Tunnicliffe to make for a special job of ours. Each sheep has its own quirky little facial expression and personality. We love her interpretation of this iconic New Zealand animal. Now they're off to their new home!

Reproduction 'S' Chair

2011-07-12T10:35:00.000+12:00

The latest creation to leave our doors over the weekend was this fabulous reproduction 'S' chair made by our upholsterer for a client of ours. Inspired by some of our previous work, the client chose Hawaiian bark-cloth for the upholstery; creating a statement piece, easy to move around and with a small footprint - perfect for a little nook in her home.

Retro Wallpaper & Fabric Clearance

2011-07-08T09:23:00.001+12:00

Our cherished retro fabric and wallpaper designer 'Melinamade' has sadly stopped printing, so all the pieces we have left of her lovingly hand screen-printed goodies are up for grabs in store now!

It really is a matter of first in first served, as the remnants of both fabric and paper have been priced depending on their size, and are ready for new homes. They are perfect for cushions, lampshades, or stretched over canvases, and in most instances the remnants are large enough for all these applications. Once it's gone there's no more, so get in quick for your slice of retro heaven!

Ingrid Anderson & The 2011 Rugby World Cup

2011-06-28T12:01:00.000+12:00

As part of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, the lovely Ingrid Anderson has amped up her design work once again and come up with some goodies to celebrate. We have a range of her teatowels, aprons and cushion covers in store now, swing by and see!

New This Week!

2011-06-28T11:47:00.000+12:00

New in the shop this week - this awesome pair of restored and re-upholstered chairs in a great Charles Parsons floral, paired with a coordinating textured orange. They'd make such a great statement in the right place. Come and see them now!

Latest Bob Steiner

2011-06-28T11:32:00.001+12:00

A couple of new items from Bob Steiner have arrived in store - this time we've gone back to the original colourings and textures of a retro era, seen here on this gorgeous lamp base, fantail and owl!

Rachel Butler - Desktop Stereo

2011-06-16T16:33:00.000+12:00

Es design was recently the photography backdrop for a new product concept by Industrial Design student Rachel Butler - her cool creation; the Desktop Stereo. Check out her Flickr site for more images, and instructions on how it works! We love clever people!

All images are from http://www.flickr.com/photos/35953775@N07/

Before & After

2011-06-16T15:08:00.000+12:00

Here's a 'before and after' of a chair recently completed for some lovely customers of ours.

The fabric is called 'Hills of Home', a design based on the hills of Wellington by designer Sheree Davis. Fabulous!

Raging Red Magnolia

2011-06-08T13:40:00.001+12:00

Image from www.homebasecollections.co.nz

Remember our friends Homebase Collections? They design and produce the most fabulous range of NZ inspired fabrics, and if you take a squizz at their website you will find lots of lovely eye candy like this! Magnolia's anyone? Yes please! Find it all here at esdesign!

Homestyle June/July: Expert Style Advice

2011-06-01T08:23:00.002+12:00

This month's edition of Homestyle NZ features a fabulous article on wallpaper and curtaining, written by our very own expert designer Eleanor. Grab a copy from your local mag retailer now!

William Morris

2011-05-27T11:26:00.000+12:00

Here is a great example of classic fabrics that will always work - here we've had two armchairs upholstered in a delightful William Morris fabric called 'Golden Lily'. There is always an application for every fabric, no matter how traditional or contemporary!

French Boudoir

2011-05-27T11:18:00.000+12:00

How glorious is this bed head and base that we've had upholstered for a client of ours?

We are so pleased with how it's turned out!

New Bob Steiner Bases

2011-05-16T08:56:00.000+12:00

We've got two new Bob Steiner lamp bases in store - a gorgeous tall base in beautiful turquoise and sandy yellow tones, and a lotus lamp base in a rich purple. Delicious! Pop on in to have a closer peek!

Hawaiian Style

2011-05-13T07:45:00.000+12:00

Remember a couple of months ago when we showed you this amazing hawaiian bark cloth?

Well here's what we did with it! A pair of gorgeous chairs in true retro Hawaiian style, with timber work fully restored, new foam and of course fabric. Buy one for $895.00 or the pair for $1750.00!

In The Shade

2011-04-29T11:13:00.001+12:00

Here's a little project that Sean has been working on for a client of ours. It's so much fun to inject a bit of life into a tired old shade just by using a fresh, colourful fabric! This one is called 'Evergreen', it comes in lots of different colours and is one of our favourites!

Paperhands - 'Native'

2011-04-27T09:49:00.000+12:00

Remember Paperhands? We are just about to use another of their fantastic wallpaper designs 'Native', as part of a very exciting job that we've been working on... we can't wait to see it on the wall!

Fortyfive Design

2011-04-27T09:28:00.000+12:00

Look what the clever people over at Fortyfive Design have been up to!

This is their brand spanking new range of greeting cards, aren't they superb!? We have a small selection in the store now, perfect to go along with a gift or just to brighten someone's dreary winters day.

Take a peek!

Uh oh...

2011-04-26T07:15:00.000+12:00