Jasmin Scott, Auckland NZ
A jewellery designer by trade, Jasmin Scott lives with her partner Oli, her 8-year-old son Archie, her one-year-old daughter Lola and their dog, Blue. The house has a Spanish-feel, with the cooler, central rooms surrounded by light-filled areas that are scattered with plants and treasures that demand a little storytelling. We visit on a slow Sunday morning, catching the gorgeous family as they sit down to enjoy freshly brewed coffee and blueberry pancakes.
Can you tell us about some of the house's details that you love?
The little jungle in our backyard! Our dining room table looks out on to it; I like sitting here to work. We have an abundance of fruit trees and a little stream; it's a lovely spot for Archie and Lola to play. The fireplace is so nice in winter. Both of the bedrooms also get really lovely afternoon light, perfect for naps. Your personal vintage jewellery collection is beautiful. Any interesting stories behind finding or coming-to-own any of these?
I've collected special jewellery pieces for as long as I can remember! My grandmother worked in a jewellery store for over 30 years, so as a child received special pieces from her every Christmas and birthday. I still have my charm bracelet she gifted me when I was young with years worth of charms on it. My mother has impeccable taste; I've inherited some of her great statement pieces from the '80s and '90s. When travelling, I always end up collecting jewellery, always drawn to the jewellery section at vintage stores and flea markets. My favourite piece is a beautiful pendant, I found at a flea market in Paris, which I wear on one of my grandmothers gold chains. I never take it off.
When travelling, I always end up collecting jewellery, always drawn to the jewellery section at vintage stores and flea markets. My favourite piece is a beautiful pendant, I found at a flea market in Paris, which I wear on one of my grandmothers gold chains. I never take it off.
What would be the most treasured objects in your home?
My jewellery collection, our books, and the art and treasures we have collected on our travels. Oli would probably say his cookbooks and his guitars. Do you have any morning rituals for productivity?
We usually all eat breakfast together as a family before Archie goes to school, then once he's dropped off I love to get out for a quick bushwalk before starting my day, it gets me into a good headspace. Then, I make myself a coffee, write a list of what I need to do that day, sit down at the dining room table or in my office and get to work!
Working from home can be both a perk and a hindrance – how do you manage your time working and being at home and with family?
I’m really lucky Oli spends a bit of time at home and can help with the kids; I’m not sure how I would manage without him! I try to work in three-hour blocks; it’s amazing what can be achieved in a few hours! Oli will take Lola out or play with her at home during the morning so I can get my work done without distractions. Then I’ll stop and have a break, make some lunch. The afternoons vary, sometimes Oli will have things he needs to do or I might pop out for a meeting, otherwise, I’ll try to squeeze a few more hours in before Archie finishes school. Once Archie’s home, I like to spend time with the kids without work distractions until they go to bed. Ideally once the kids are asleep this would be time that Oli and I get to spend together, but it’s not always the case! Often it’s a glass of red wine and work emails. I’ve become much better at managing my time since having kids. Time is precious.
Above: 100% Linen Duvet Cover in Dove Grey, Pillowslips in Stripe, Charcoal & Tobacco.What are some important elements for you to have (or not have) in your own and your children’s bedrooms?
Books! We all love reading; Oli and I often have a wee stack of books on our bedside tables. As does Archie, bedtime stories with the kids is a special nighttime ritual we all love.
I also like having fresh or foraged flowers in our room, and a scented candle is always nice.
We all love reading; Oli and I often have a wee stack of books on our bedside tables. As does Archie, bedtime stories with the kids is a special nighttime ritual we all love.
What are some of your pantry/kitchen staples?
Gosh so many — lots of fresh organic fruit and veggies. We don’t eat meat but always buy yummy free-range eggs at the market. I always have ingredients to make a green smoothie. Nuts for snacking on, a variety of herbal teas, coffee, red wine and dark chocolate.
Gosh so many -- lots of fresh organic fruit and veggies. We don't eat meat but always buy yummy free-range eggs at the market. I always have ingredients to make a green smoothie. Nuts for snacking on, a variety of herbal teas, coffee, red wine and dark chocolate.How do you enjoy your local community?
The Oratia Farmers Market is a lovely Saturday morning ritual; we always go along if were not heading away for the weekend. I love buying organic, locally grown produce. The Titirangi Market is also really nice, although not as frequent.
There’s a great local bakery that does a lovely crunchy sourdough. And for coffee, I am very, very fussy. I haven’t found a spot out my way that I love, yet. My favourite coffee spot is in Ponsonby, so if I’m not heading that way I’ll make myself a black coffee at home. (Someone please open a spot that sells great coffee and croissants!!)
Soul Centre is a lovely local yoga studio looking out into the trees. And there so many amazing bush walks and hidden beaches nearby!
What is your favourite thing to do together as a family?
The above! Markets, bush walks, the beach in summer, and little adventures away for the weekend. Above: 100% Linen Duvet Set in Moss. Do you have any nighttime rituals to wind down? Chamomile tea and a good book! Always. See more from Jasmin here. SaveSave