In our conversation with Abby Gilmore, a digital content creator and mother of three, we delve into the journey of constructing their dream residence in Gisborne.
Can you provide three words that best encapsulate your personality
Energetic, dedicated, inquisitive.
What’s your preferred hue?
I have a fondness for the colour orange.
Could you share what holds the most sentimental value for you?
Without a doubt, my children’s baby boxes brimming with cherished mementos spanning from their birth to the present.
Do you currently reside in a house or an apartment?
Our home is a house, nestled in the picturesque locale of Gisborne.
What currently tops your interior design wishlist?
At present, we eagerly anticipate the completion of our cabinetry and the installation of a fireplace in our living area. Once these tasks are accomplished, we can embark on the decorating phase, which will undoubtedly transform our entryway into a warm and inviting space!
How would you describe your interior design style?
I’d describe my interior design style as minimalist, leaning towards neutral tones. While the children’s rooms boast a hint of vibrancy in their bedding, I personally prefer the “less is more” approach, especially given the bustling nature of life with little ones.
Which room in your home is your personal favourite, and why?
My sanctuary lies in my bedroom. It’s where I retreat to unwind, designed with soothing neutral shades, adorned with cozy throw blankets, and featuring sheer curtains over the blockout blinds to create a soft and tranquil ambience.
What are the three key elements that imbue your home with a genuine sense of homeliness?
First and foremost, the presence of sheer curtains throughout the house is paramount; they infuse the entire space with a warm and snug atmosphere. Secondly, our comfortable couch and seating arrangement, where we can all gather to enjoy movie nights together, play a significant role in making our home feel like a cozy haven. Last but not least, our dining table serves as a central hub for communal meals and daily conversations, fostering a strong sense of togetherness.
What valuable lessons did you acquire during the process of designing your home?
One key lesson I learned was the importance of seeking a woman’s perspective. Men often overlook certain essential aspects, such as additional storage space, room for walk-in robes, and soundproofing. Having a woman’s input can be incredibly valuable in addressing these needs.
When it comes to crafting a home design, could you outline your typical approach?
Fortunately, I had the good fortune of having a partner and a father-in-law who are experienced builders, which simplified the process for me. They expertly managed all the details, so I didn’t need to be deeply involved in the design process.
Have you ever encountered a significant interior design misstep in your journey?
To date, I haven’t made any major interior design blunders, or at least none that I’m aware of!
Could you share your top three design and style recommendations for those embarking on a house construction or renovation project?
- 1. Find an interior designer who can truly understand your vision. In my case, I struggled to envision the rooms and their final look, so it was crucial to have an interior designer, like Mandy from Concept Designs, who could grasp my taste and preferences through numerous discussions. She made the process effortless, resulting in a minimalist, kid-friendly, yet chic and functional aesthetic for our home.
- Invest wisely in key pieces of furniture, such as my luxurious couch. A comfortable seating arrangement is essential for bringing the family together, whether it’s for bonding or enjoying movie nights.
- If you’re working with a limited renovation budget, prioritize a few impactful changes. A fresh coat of paint and the addition of beautiful sheers can work wonders in transforming a home. Consider converting spaces into open-plan living areas, combining the kitchen, dining, and living spaces for an open and inviting atmosphere.
What was your most indulgent expenditure when crafting your home’s design?
My most extravagant splurge was definitely on my couch. While it was a substantial investment, it proved essential in creating a space where the whole family could come together for close-knit gatherings and movie nights.
Suppose you’re faced with a tight renovation budget; how would you make the most of it to rejuvenate a home?
Given a limited budget, I would prioritize a few cost-effective yet impactful changes. First, a high-quality paint job can refresh the entire look and feel of a home. Additionally, investing in beautiful sheers can enhance the ambience. If the space isn’t already open-plan, I would consider reconfiguring it to create open living, kitchen, and dining areas, optimizing the available budget for maximum transformation.
What criteria guide your selection of materials, furniture, and accessories in your design endeavours?
Typically, I turn to my girlfriend Vanessa, who happens to run her own online homewares store. Since I don’t have a natural knack for this, I find that involving someone who understands my style makes the process enjoyable and less daunting. Quality is a top priority for me; I’ve patiently waited for the right time to invest in these items. I’ve experienced living in places where everything was mismatched or old and ready to be discarded. Now, in my dream home, I’ve worked diligently to bring it all together, piece by piece. It’s not a sprint, considering we’re yet to stumble upon that elusive money tree, but rather a marathon that we savour at our own pace.
In the debate of Curtains, Blinds, or Shutters, where do you stand?
In our household, we’re fans of Sheer Curtains. However, we’ve also incorporated beautiful Blockout Blinds for added privacy.
Which products did you select from dc+b?
We opted for Motorized Roller Blinds in the shade “Vamp” throughout the house, as well as the Wave Fold Sheers in the elegant “Angelo” colour, specifically in “Angora.”
How have these products transformed the ambience of your home?
To be candid, before the installation of Sheers and Blinds, our home felt somewhat bare and merely like a house. The difference was remarkable once they were in place. The space became considerably cozier and more inviting, with a noticeably enhanced brightness.
For those who struggle with window design decisions, how do you draw inspiration?
In our case, we decided on Blockout Blinds because we appreciate having a dark room for a good night’s sleep, especially with little ones who could use a bit more shut-eye in the mornings. As for the Sheers, we strategically placed them in areas where we wanted to introduce a softer, more luxurious feel—our primary bedroom, walk-in robes, and the open living area encompassing the lounge and kitchen. They truly transformed these spaces!
Could you share details about your current design projects?
Our home still has many projects in the pipeline, including the front yard, backyard, cinema room, office space, and more. We’re genuinely excited to take on each of these tasks as they come along.
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