Spaces That Inspire Us

Spaces That Inspire Us

Set in idyllic, rolling countryside in Arrowtown, less than 30 minutes' drive from Queenstown on New Zealand’s South Island, Ayrburn is a stunning culinary destination with a rich 160-year history. Seamlessly blending its past with an innovative outlook, this breathtaking property has undergone a thoughtful reimagining that celebrates its heritage and the beauty of the natural landscape, taking a considered approach to textural layering and craftsmanship.

Ayrburn project: @alexander_andco I Photography: @smartanson I Published: @thelocalproject

Architecture: @sa_studio_nz I Architecture & Interior: @alexander_andco I Photography: @smartanson I Published: @thelocalproject

Picturesque surroundings feature vineyards and a bucolic stream alongside the buildings which, once dilapidated, have been given a new life by local property developer Winton. Working with New Zealand architect SA Studio and Sydney-based architecture and interior design practice Alexander &CO. to transform Ayrburn into a world-class food and wine precinct. Five separate venues within the site each have their own story to tell while sharing a cohesive look and feel, richly layered with stone, timber, metal and upholstery for inviting warmth and tonal, tactile appeal. 

Architecture: @sa_studio_nz I Architecture & Interior: @alexander_andco I Photography: @smartanson I Published: @thelocalproject

Architecture: @_sa.studio_ I Architecture & Interior: @alexander_andco I Photography: @smartanson I Published: @thelocalproject

Creamy stone walls and cobbled stone floors juxtaposed with refurbished original floorboards, beech ceiling linings and a steel-clad fireplace offer a striking combination of old-meets-new charm, while moss-green velour and burgundy leather are paired against rust and caramel tones for a timeless, nature-inspired palette that echoes the outdoors. 

Architecture: @sa_studio_nz I Architecture & Interior: @alexander_andco I Photography: @smartanson I Published: @thelocalproject

Artisanal elements include a mural in The Barrel Room created by Angeline Drinan and an earthy, eye-catching tapestry by Maryanne Moodie in The Woolshed. In The Manure Room, a leather curtain offers a statement-making backdrop to a ruched silk pendant by Shaun Dudley of Transmitt and handcrafted furniture by Athol Wright of CDF Studio adds further bespoke touches. Much like our approach to styling and design, an overall focus on quality materials and carefully considered details results in a timeless look that celebrates craftsmanship and heritage.

Architecture: @sa_studio_nz I Architecture & Interior: @alexander_andco I Photography: @smartanson I Published: @thelocalproject

Insiders tip: When visiting Ayrburn, take a scenic one-hour drive northeast to Wānaka where you'll find our local stockist The Workroom. Owner and interior designer Anna Begg and her team can assist you in exploring the HMCo. pure linen collection, you'll also discover a beautiful range of thoughtfully curated homewares.   

Pictured: @theworkroom_ Basix Linen Pillowcase in Ayrton, Flocca Long Pillowcase in Floss, Flocca Linen Pillowcase in Fog, Basix Euro Pillowcase in Sable/BrunFlocca Linen Blanket in Sable purchased via: @theworkroom_