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Our beautiful friend Shan-Mei has been an integral part of the Everyday Needs team for the past eighteen months. As cheerful store manager, super organised logistics co-ordinator (and in-house personal trainer) Shan-Mei is always a delight to be around. We are sad to farewell her as she starts the next chapter of her life, but so excited to see what she accomplishes next! Here Shan-Mei shares an Edit of her personal favourites from the Everyday Needs offering.

1. Maryse enzyme-refine cleanser

If there’s one thing I use everyday, it's this cleanser. A staff favourite and having done a lot of the stock ordering, I can personally attest to the fact that these products are handmade locally in small batches - literally just a couple of doors down from our shop. The bio-boost serum and mineral dew are also faves of mine and make perfect little gifts too!!

2. Body brush

I don’t use this brush often enough but when I do… boy oh boy! I mean, who doesn’t love baby smooth skin?! I also think it’s really cool that these brushes are made by visually impaired crafts people using traditional Swedish techniques.

3. Norwegian lambswool blanket

The recent chilly evenings as well as the generous size of this beautiful blanket were already enough to convince me... But then a friend at work spoke of how a blanket is a piece you will treasure for a really long time, and that sold me! This blanket now reminds me of her, and the trademark green reminds me of my time at Everyday Needs... #cheesy

4. Arnold Circus stools

From side table, to stool, to lazy floor TV-dinner table… a classic. Theres new colours and sizes out now, too! How to choose…?

5. Falcon enamel tumblers

I always aim to reduce waste and one of the easiest moves I made was getting myself a trusty glass Keepcup (which we also stock). Recently I got a couple of these enamel tumblers to keep in the car as a backup and to share with friends - a warning, espressos can be hot to hold but manageable! Also great for a cheeky wine when outdoors!

 

Personal note: “Thank you to everyone I’ve encountered and worked with during my time here at Everyday Needs. All the lovely customers that I got to know on a first name basis, everyone on our shop block, the wonderful suppliers and talented crafts people - it's truly been a pleasure. Also a massive thanks to the EDN team (namely my core girls - Lou and Neeve)… Thank you xx”

Our friends Abel Sloane and Ruby Woodhouse are the talented duo behind London-based practice 1 9 3 4. Starting out as dealers of twentieth century furniture, the pair have recently expanded into interior design - such as an aspirational full renovation of a Victorian apartment in Hackney - and research projects like their first publication, The Simple Heart of Plywood, a new book on the little known furniture of Gerald Summers - which we are proud to now stock in our store. We love these two for the warmth & ease they bring to everything they do and are happy to share their edit of five Everyday Needs pieces.

1.Japanese incense // Brilliant Peaks

There’s something quite ritualistic about burning incense in the home. It is something that both of our parents have always done since we were small. These ones in particular are favourites of ours – not too overpowering but creates a homely and clean atmosphere, ready for the day!

2. Hinoki bathroom stool

We’re always looking for practical stools like this for our projects. They can be moved around the house for several needs: bedside tables, reaching high shelves, dusting, for candles and whatnot. This one is humble, and well made.

3. Dustpan and brush set

An essential tool for absolutely every house. We’d have one in every room if they looked like this!

4. Belgian linen tea towels // Check

We’re big fans of anything check. We like our tea towels too! We use tea towels a lot in our own home. Cooking every night means washing up every night (especially without a dishwasher)… so tea towels are much needed in the kitchen!

5. The Simple Heart of Plywood: an introduction to Gerald Summers and Makers of Simple Furniture

This book started as research into a pair of chairs we bought 3 years ago at an antiques market. We were pushed hard to find much information about the designer, who we later found to be Gerald Summers (made by his workshop 'Makers of Simple Furniture'). A few notes turned into a few pages, and we made contacts with family members and collectors. This year we decided to publish our findings in book form, designed by Joe Gilmore. It’s our first publication and hopefully not the last.

This week for The Edit we are excited to feature photographer and author, Leslie Williamson. Leslie is best known for her unique and personal approach to photographing interiors, seeing the homes she shoots as a portrait of the people who live there. Leslie's first two books, Handcrafted Modern and Modern Originals, are volumes we return to over and over. To celebrate the release of her beautiful new book Interior Portraits, Leslie has kindly shared five of her favourite pieces from the Everyday Needs range.

1.Monmouth Glass handblown rose tumblers

The moment I saw these, my mind was flooded with wonderful memories of my Grandmother and her glass collection. She collected only this particular color of pink. These tumblers, of course, are a bit more modern than anything she owned, and perfectly imperfect as only handblown glass can be. But what a special thing to have a simple object link one’s mind to such a potent and happy trove of memories. Every time I drink out of these I will be sharing a moment with my Grandmother (who passed years ago). I cannot think of anything better.

2. Ruth Castle fruit dish

I first became aware of Ruth Castle’s work, when I saw her Garlic Basket hanging in a friend’s kitchen in London years ago. I have finally started to build my own collection of her work and this fruit dish I see as the next piece to add to my collection. I may even follow her directions and use it as a fruit dish. But then again, it might just need to hang on my wall.

3. Rattan carpet beater

Who wouldn’t want such a beautiful object made for a perfectly mundane task? To be honest, I have always wanted one of these. I am sure my attraction to the carpet beater is in part because I was weaned on BBC costume dramas and Merchant and Ivory films, but there is an undeniable romance to them, isn’t there? It harks to a time before machines “simplified” our lives (vacuum cleaners, washing machines, etc.). I know the reality of beating a carpet clean is a lot of hard work and sweat, but I cannot help but think of how quiet it must have been without all the buzzing of vacuums and the like. It is a beautiful object that speaks of simpler times.

4. Enamel three pint jug in Samphire

I have a soft spot for the common pitcher. I have more than I will ever use, but this one, which I cannot break, will be used more than most - for flowers, for water at dinner parties, and more than likely just to decorate my shelf with a shot of this lovely deep green color.

5. Japanese house slippers

I have a minor obsession with wearing baskets on my feet so these slippers will definitely satisfy that. Plus they are so much more interesting that the usual slip on, no?

Our friends Cindy & Dominic have been cheerful weekend regulars in our store for as long as we can remember, and have lived in Ponsonby for twenty years. Cindy is a primary school teacher and principal, and Dom is a music teacher and musician who has just released a new record. To coincide with our loosely themed 'Back to school' week the couple have shared with us five Everyday Needs pieces that they use daily.

1.Deadly Ponies x Everyday Needs laptop wallet

Dom: Although I really needed one, I would never get a laptop case from St Lukes so jumped when I saw this. It's resilient and school-proof and the kids ask about the collection of words on the label.

2. Phil Cuttance herringbone bud vase

Cindy: It showcases the flowers from our garden. I love the herringbone, it's a sculptural piece, art really, and I've always loved his work.

3. Anglepoise Type 75 lamp in Ochre

Cindy: Because it helps me read my favourite books and disconnect. And I can move it's head so it looks like a monster.

4. Wooden doormat with bristles

Dom: If a doormat could patinate, this one does it gracefully. Even though they were so beautifully upright when it was new, the bristles are gradually becoming softer; the whole texture of it changing over time.

5. Ceramic incense plate

We chose ours from a selection as they were all different and very organic. We love that it's hand-made and beautiful but above all, that it does its job so perfectly.

Our friends Felix and Warren are designers who have recently started working on projects together under the name Fount Via. We are lucky enough to see Felix and Warren everyday as their studio is upstairs above our store. We love their work and were interested to hear about their favourite pieces from the Everyday Needs range.

1. Martino Gamper Salt & Pepper Spitz

Seasoning is important, and it’s nice to use a kitchen utensil designed by somebody with such a strong relationship to food.

2. JB Blunk Cups, plates, bowls & sculptures: ceramics 1950 – 1999

We’d never heard of J.B. Blunk until we saw this book published by dent-de-leone. Designed by Åbäke, it is a great introduction to his ceramics without any over-cooking. 

3. Sori Yanagi Kettle

Sori Yanagi’s kettle is beautifully finished. Yanagi designed this kettle in 1953 and again in 1994. We like thinking about its approachable form through these two contexts. 

4. Fennel Toothpaste

This toothpaste is from the United Kingdom. Warren first tried it on a small island in Sweden. Great mouthfeel and the fennel makes it curiously sweet.

5. Isobel Thom Salt Pig

Karekare artist Isobel Thom is a master-of-diguise. An 18-sided ceramic icosahedron that you can use with every meal.

Courtney Petley is a talented spoonsmith and woodworker who operates under the name Petley, handcrafting tactile wooden utensils from salvaged native timbers. We are lucky enough to be the exclusive stockists of not one but three of Courtney's artful and useful pieces, including a honey dipper and a lemon squeezer, both of which she created especially for us. Courtney shared some insight into her picks from the Everyday Needs range.

1. Petley Lemon Squeezer

One of the best parts of my job is watching the grain of the wood develop as I work. I especially love the way the fine grain of the Rimu folds over and around the sharp corners of the lemon squeezer. It's also very functional and makes juicing lemons so enjoyable.

2. Kawakawa Healing Balm

This balm is the best for my dry hands after a full day of sanding. 

3. Everything I Want to Eat

I went to Sqirl last year when I was in LA, their Sorrel Pesto Rice Bowl is still one of the best breakfasts I have ever had. I use their cook book all the time, and put their onion jam on everything. 

4. Gidon Bing Pasta Bowl

I've started collecting wide handmade bowls; I find them so much more enjoyable to eat a meal from. One of my favourite foods is pasta, and all this beautiful bowl by Gidon Bing makes me want to do is eat it all the time.

5. Arnold Circus Stool

My Arnold Circus Stool sits at the dining table and I've come to really enjoy how the light in our house hits it. Its so satisfying watching how the green slowly graduates from light to dark around each side and changes throughout the day.

We are happy to introduce the creative force behind our amazing new website design: Natasha Mead. Natasha is a graphic designer who has worked with some of the most interesting and innovative brands both in New Zealand and internationally. We feel very lucky to work with her and were especially interested to hear about her favourite Everyday Needs pieces!

1. Claude Megson: Counter Constructions 

We live near Claude Megson's Cocker Townhouses in Freemans Bay, and I always admire the architecture on my walk. This wonderfully designed book features them alongside some other great 1970s era NZ houses by Claude Megson.

2. Michiyuki-Tou LED Paper Lantern, Drop 

I love the satisfying Japanese proportions of this lantern. This one is perfect for late night reading - the low LED light is kind on eyes. Also handy for camping or other evening excursions.

3. Glass Teapot 

In our studio every break is a tea break, and this teapot is ideal in that you can watch it brewing - eliminating the risk of hastily poured weak tea. 

4. Brass Contour Keyring 

One of the handier objects in my day to day life - the size and shape of this keyring makes it impossible to lose your keys in your bag - never rummage around again.

5. Vitra toolbox, Mauve Grey 

This toolbox is a master organiser. Perfect for storing my collection of print and packaging tools - it's important to know where your measuring tape is at all times.

Charles Ninow is one half of the duo behind Bowerbank Ninow, an art gallery space and auction house based on Karangahape Rd in Auckland City. Bowerbank Ninow is the first and only auction house in New Zealand to pay a voluntary resale royalty to living artists whose works they sell. As part of our ongoing series, Charles shared with us some insight into five of his favourite Everyday Needs pieces.

1. Iron bottle opener 

I love to drink beer. The experience is so much better when it is initiated with a well-designed opener.

2. Arnold Circus stool

Martino Gamper’s work is amazing. I saw the most recent exhibition of his project 100 Chairs in 100 Days at Wellington’s City Gallery earlier this year and came away in awe.

3. Vitra toolbox

I often personally deliver the artworks I sell. It’s nice to to see the collections that they go into. This toolbox is a great for keeping picture-hanging essentials on hand.

4. Isobel Thom salt pig

I first encountered Isobel Thom’s work whilst I was studying at Elam School of Fine Arts. At the time, she was making very small cubist paintings in grey tones. I have admired her work ever since.

5. Japanese Kami wooden beer glass

I can still remember the first time that I was served beer in one of these glasses. They feel so light and soft in the hand. It really left an impression on me.

Our friend Sherie Rai is the woman behind Sherie Muijs, a unique local fashion brand with a cult-like emphasis on one staple garment: the shirt. Sherie has perfected her line of classic button-downs, and has recently introduced a simple cotton long sleeved tee, which we love. Sherie lives in Titirangi, West Auckland with her husband and 15 month old son, Nishi. We spoke to Sherie about her most used Everyday Needs pieces.

1.Sans [ceuticals] Activator 7 Hair, Face + Body Oil

I was first introduced to Sans Body Oil for my belly during pregnancy and I have continued to use it absolutely everywhere and every day since! Applied post shower and pre towel dry it leaves me smelling sweet and nutty and well seasoned for the day.

2. Ruth Castle garlic basket

I've recently taken a back seat on the cooking front as my husband has a new-found passion for it. In saying that, I've found mincing cloves of garlic a helpful task for when he gets home, being a staple ingredient to almost every meal. I like the idea of fresh garlic in arms reach and hanging pretty in my kitchen. Hands up for the next run of these!

3. Handcrafted Modern by Leslie Williamson

This book was gifted to me by a friend and I've perused it's pages plenty of times since. I'm particularly interested in architecture and interiors, and have a habit of living vicariously through beautiful photography of notable houses such as these.

4. Arnold Circus stool

It's the perfect seat for additional bottoms at the dinner table or as a stool when chasing the sun in our back garden.

5. Toast tongs

Toast is a daily pleasure and these tongs are a life saver!

We have been working with Gidon Bing since the inception of Everyday Needs. Gidon is an Auckland based artist whose work has its roots firmly in modernism and the Avant Garde. His extensive line of ceramics has a distinctive touch that is both handmade and refined. We are happy to have Gidon's perfect dinnerware range now available online, with all pieces made-to-order. Click here to browse Gidon's pieces online. Gidon shared with us an Edit of his favourite design objects from the Everyday Needs offering. 

1. Hinoki bathroom stool

A well crafted, traditional design that is so timeless it remains modern.

2. Kami wooden mug with handle

The definition of good design – when nothing can be added without detracting.

3. Wooden muesli bowl

An exceptionally well proportioned vessel that becomes even more beautiful as a patina develops over time and with use.

4. Japanese copper grater

Beautiful, practical and perfect for sugarcane and ginger infused vodka.

5.  Hinoki bathroom tray

A modest but perfectly formed piece of practical, traditional Japanese joinery.

Our friend Sophie Wolanski of Muck Floral is an amazing florist known for her masterful - often foraged - floral creations. Muck Floral has recently moved to a new location on Surrey Cres in Grey Lynn. We are happy to share Sophie's unique edit of five Everyday Needs pieces that she uses daily at work and at home.

1. Vitra toolbox 

I don't like to admit it but I'm not the tidiest person. I talk a lot, I move around a lot and I put things down absentmindedly while talking and moving. This culminates in many a misplaced clipper / stapler / measuring tape... I haven't lost my clippers once since adding the Vitra toolbox to my work station. I love all the different compartments sizes - it's perfect for the virgo in me.

2. Stanley thermos

My Stanley thermos comes to the flower market with me every morning. Before Stanley I just took glass mason jars, but they get hot, and it's not a good look with loose leaf tea concoctions. Stanley is much more practical. 

3. Dustpan and brush set

I have a serious passion for good brooms. People don't realise how big of a role sweeping is in a florists life, and a good broom makes all the difference. I will admit I am a total broom snob and will only use horsehair, so this one suits me perfectly.

4. Belgian linen tea towel // Check

I recently bought the tablecloth version of this linen and I am so in love. Growing up, and still when I go home, my mother has always had an amazing collection of tablecloths. They aren't fancy but have been collected over decades and from all around the world. This was the first tablecloth of my own and I didn't realise until I lay it out how much I love the tradition of clothing a table. And I just love the sunshine colour this brings into a room.

5. Japanese Koinobori carp windsock

A friend of mine has a really big one of these hanging in her kitchen. She is moving overseas and I'm going to miss her so I just bought this one to remind me of her. I love that it symbolises courage and strength so I will hang it in my new studio to bring me energy.

Everyday Needs is a huge fan of Warwick Freeman’s jewellery and curatorial collaborations with our good friend Karl Fritsch. As soon as we saw Warwick’s door handles crafted from volcanic rock we were in love and are honoured to be able to have these pieces in our store. We visited Warwick's beautiful studio in Devonport and spoke to him about his favourite pieces from the Everyday Needs range.

1. 100 Chairs by Martino Gamper

I was visiting London in 2007 and saw an exhibition of Martino Gamper’s hybrid chairs at the London Design Museum. I don’t think there were 100 Chairs at that stage but it was one of those ‘out of nowhere’ moments when you see work by someone that seems to be on their own path. The record of them in a book came later and that cemented the project as a moment so I ordered one. This is the smaller pocket edition but it still faithfully sports the distinctive red stitched binding.

2. Apple Farmer's basket

Give a basket a job. A basket should always have a name that makes reference to it's purpose. This beautiful Japanese bamboo one is made for carrying apples.

3. Japanese copper grater

An exquisite little thing - the two tone colouring and the graphic created by the raised teeth is so resolved that if I was a jeweller I’d string a cord through it and call it a pendant - oh that’s right I am - well if I was a chef I’d want one - making sure to wear it grater side out of course.

4. Olio stoneware serving bowl

Just another bowl in the endless universe of bowls - the form is lovely but mostly because of the colour - that brown would happily mix in with the other bowls in our cupboard.

5. Auböck brass bookends

Everyone should know about the 20th Century Austrian designer and maker Carl Auböck. His idiosyncratic, slightly off-centre aesthetic throws a different cast on the more familiar history of European Modernist design. Some of his work has a very literal use of figurative elements - the bookends aren’t so obvious but they have a whiff of that sensibility - book dogs.