For the Home Stylist

Every home stylist knows the room is never finished. There is always a shelf that could be better, a corner that needs height, a vase that would look right if only it were a little taller. This edit is for that person, or for buying them a gift they will actually use.

It gathers the working kit: Umbra mirrors such as the Hubba arched leaning mirror, NZ-made Papier HQ empty frames in black, white and natural, sculptural vases from Ned Collections and Papier HQ, Potted planters, marble trays, faux stems and trailing greenery from Artificial Flora, and the Umbra Leana decorative ladder for throws. There are cosmetic organisers and sink caddies for the practical side, plus a Three Birds Renovations book for ideas.

Work in layers: something tall, something wide, something small, then step back and take one thing away. If they are building a wall, start with wall art and a frame in a finish that matches the room's hardware.

What do you buy someone who loves styling their home?
Pieces that give them options rather than a finished look: an empty frame, a sculptural vase, a marble tray or a few faux stems. If you are unsure of their taste, a Flux Boutique gift voucher lets them choose, and it has no expiry.

How do I style a shelf without it looking cluttered?
Group objects in odd numbers, vary the heights and leave roughly a third of the shelf empty. Mix materials such as ceramic, marble and a little greenery, and repeat one colour across the whole unit so it holds together.

What sizes do the Papier HQ empty frames come in?
Papier HQ empty frames come in A4, A3, A2 and A1, in matte black, white or natural. They are made in New Zealand from NZ wood and glass, and are brought in to order, so allow up to 10 working days.

Where does a decorative ladder work best?
Anywhere you want storage without losing floor space. A leaning ladder like the Umbra Leana holds throws, towels or magazines against a clear stretch of wall in a bedroom, bathroom or living room, and uses height instead of width.