takatu

We recently had our staff retreat at a friend's beach house at Takatu, an hour's drive north of Auckland. It is the most peaceful place, set in a valley surrounded by fields, bush and sheep. The beach is close at hand. You can see it from the deck! While we were there it rained constantly but it didn't really matter because the house is well designed for indoor and outdoor living. It was still great to just relax, reflect and chill out together.

I love their decorating style. Precious objects, artworks and books sit alongside collections of natural and found objects. Family treasures are lovingly and artfully displayed. It is relaxed.... it says comfort and home.... it invites you to kick back, unwind and let the stresses of the city fall far behind you.....

Stencilled acrylic on board by Rick Shanks

"Let us spray!"

We had to leave all too soon. Reluctantly we packed up and headed off just as the sun started to peek through the clouds!