Inside The Close: Two Luxury Holiday Homes in Paihia, Bay of Islands

For The Close, we transformed two architecturally designed homes by GHD Design into luxuriously furnished short-term rentals in Paihia, Bay of Islands. These bespoke holiday homes have been reimagined to meet the growing demand from holiday makers seeking restful high-end, luxury accommodation in one of New Zealand’s most idyllic coastal destinations.

With creative freedom given by an insightful, private client, Newton Kay focused on creating inviting interiors that blend modern sophistication with coastal charm.

We wanted to build off our location and create an experience that feels luxurious yet accessible. Each home had to stand out while maintaining flexibility, should one be sold. We couldn’t have been more thrilled with the outcome."

The studio selected standout, high-end pieces for the living areas, master bedrooms and dining spaces, while opting for subtle furnishings for the secondary bedrooms. This approach maximised the client’s budget and ensured the homes were ready to welcome guests in time for summer.         

A bold conversation-starting sofa from Soren Liv takes centre stage in one living room, and a beautiful installation by Jo Wright from Bearwood Workshop transforms the stairwell. Other stand-out details include a vintage Japanese Boro fabric wall hanging and a geometric coffee table by Ellison Studios. 

Each house has a distinct personality, with neutral finishes and modern selections. We wanted each home to feel like it stood on its own but still remain cohesive, which isn’t easy without personal heirlooms or a particular individual personality to influence a design. For us, it was about creating a vibe that guests will find comfortable, elevated, but also memorable.

Set on a hilltop, with sweeping views of the Bay of Islands, the homes also feature a private funicular, providing a scenic way to travel between the properties and the main road. We revelled in the challenge of styling these short-term rentals, and making a point of capturing a soulful atmosphere. In such a breathtaking location, it was a joy to bring these two designs to life.

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At Newton Kay Studio, we create thoughtful, high-end interiors that feel as good as they look. Whether you're designing your dream home or a boutique rental, we’d love to help you bring your vision to life.