Originally built in about 2010, The Potting Shed began its life as just that - a potting and garden tool storage shed. Constructed from 120-year-old recycled totara planks from the owner’s farm, this charming shed then became a much-loved art studio and quiet place for meditation and reflection.
The Potting Shed’s most recent reinvention was realised after a significant refurbishment, transforming it into a special sanctuary and retreat for guests.
Like many projects, the project's success lies in the strength of the relationships. Here, the owners’ openness and Kate’s experience and love of nature and the outdoors helped bring The Potting Shed to life. It was a true collaborative partnership. Kate understood which aspects of the charming, humble shed to preserve and which to elevate to the impeccable standard of luxury her clients expected. With a small footprint (the Potting Shed has just one bedroom), production quality and a high level of detail were essential.
As always, inspiration comes in many forms, but elements of a classic lodge felt appropriate. It needed to remain a cottage yet have a light, bright, and airy feel. Maximising the high stud throughout the cottage was essential to achieve this, as was a thoughtful play on styling, textures, and fixtures. Family antiques and select works of art from the owner’s collection were repositioned. Here, heirlooms mix happily with modern pieces, cultivating a crafted feel that’s a bit fun and playful.
When focused on the captivating views, the newly added fireplace can hold attention. Taking center stage in the comfortable living area ensures that The Potting Shed is a cozy and welcoming retreat year round.
Featured in TVNZ’s show, Lap of Luxury.
Photography Kallan MacLeod
Pine Studios is a boutique interior design consultancy founded by Kate Horton Shanahan.
After several years working with the renowned Australian Interior Designer Cameron Kimber, Kate now calls New Zealand home and over the last decade has developed an integrated, established practice.
Shaped by Kate’s highly personalised and collaborative approach, Pine Studios works on a wide range of projects, from high-end residential interiors (new builds and renovations) to commercial and hospitality.
With extensive experience and an established network of trusted connections, Pine Studios offers attentive care and service no matter the scale of the project.
Interiors are a personal expression of an individual, family or major project’s story, influencing how people want to live, feel and be inspired. Kate’s approach of listening carefully, respecting partnerships and personalities, and being able to weave in pragmatic solutions to visionary ideas has helped many realise their own unique expression of place and has led to long-term partnerships with many repeat clients.
Based between the Hawkes Bay and Auckland, Pine Studios delivers bespoke services across Aotearoa New Zealand.
If you’d like to discuss an interiors project, please feel free get in touch using the form below or give us a call.
+64 27 416 4075It’s your story and what you now want to create. It is the collaboration process of me interpreting your dreams and desires that enables us to create this.
I worked for four years with Cameron Kimber in Sydney, one of the most celebrated Australian Designers with followers around the world, who’s creations regularly appear in Australian Vogue Living and Belle Magazine. I truly learnt the importance of colour, texture, layering and the curating of different elements, styles and eras and that they can all create a fine beautiful balance within a space.
After 10 years in Auckland, I now live between Auckland and the Hawkes Bay, and feel excited to be in a postion to work on projects all over the country.
It is important to me that at this time that we support our New Zealand artisans, suppliers and architects to enable a secure future for all.
By working together we can create a home and space that you truly love.