For those on the hunt for a new, original space for an upcoming wedding or special event, we may have just found the jewel in Auckland’s crown. Inside the Swan Hotel in Parnell, there’s a hidden gem named the White Room — a cool, completely alabaster space that’s beautiful as is, or a blank canvas to be styled and transformed for any occasion…
Built in 1855, the former Swan hotel is a heritage listed building, and the White Room retains original details, like exposed brick and high studs. Its refurbishment is being led by the geniuses behind Blush Flowers, a floral studio with impeccable aesthetic judgement. For this huge development project, Blush founders Kelly and Richard Karam teamed up with clever creative director Sarah Jayne Kavali, who created the iconic envelope-style carrier bags that have made Blush’s work so recognisable. The trio are now six months into their work in progress, and working tirelessly to ensure every detail is perfect. Their vision is to celebrate and pay homage to the hotel’s old bones, while creating a space that’s a worthy extension to their brand. Known for their exquisite store, stunning creations and flower workshops, this second space will allow them to extend their offering for weddings and special events to include full styling, right down to fine details like stationery and signage, and there will be styling and floral packages tailored for the space, from starkly simple and cool to lush maximalism. The 220sqm space allows for limitless creativity. It’s a completely blank canvas that could house a slick, monochrome dinner party as easily as a floral- drenched, romantic wedding. Start dreaming.
Words—Sarah Simpson, Photography—Greta Kenyon, Venue—White Room Parnell , Floral & Styling, Pergola, vases and rises—BLUSH, Stationery—Sarah Jane Kavali, Chairs—LL Furniture Hire, Linen—Pacific Linen, Crockery— Father Rabbit, Glassware and Cuttlery— Alex & Corban, Cheese—The Dairy, Clothing—Maggie Marilyn