Q&A with Tracy Ellis

BEST DECORATING ADVICE: Choose what talks to you and not what others like. Work with someone who “gets you” like I did with Olga, to translate your vision. It’ll help you avoid mistakes and save you money in the long run. And I also made a great friend along the way.

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE: On the couch looking out at the garden, or on the lounger in the garden.

IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS I’D LIKE TO: Perhaps have done another few house projects, or maybe still be on the lounger in the garden.

THIS WEEKEND I WILL BE: Gardening, catching up with friends, hanging with my daughter and getting going on my next project, which is transforming the snug by having a sliding cavity door with glass installed, laying carpet and replacing the shutters with woollen roman blinds. Cosy. BEST WALK: Take a walk or run down to and around Coxs Bay – it’s beautiful summer or winter. WHEN YOU VISIT PONSONBY, DON’T MISS: The Franklin Rd lights at Christmas – jam-packed with people but so pretty, and hopefully returning this year. Duck Island Ice Cream never fails to create a smile. Azabu for the best-ever tempura and dumplings. SPQR and Prego restaurants are Ponsonby institutions. Cool vintage clothing finds at Tatty’s. Ponsonby Central is great for a mooch and food. Lonely, for lingerie. {Suite} Gallery has cool art. Mecca for all your beauty products.