Meredith Lee is the owner of European Antiques & Furnishings in Grey Lynn. She started her company Twenty one years ago after returned from living overseas in Sydney and London.
What got you interested in antiques?
My interest in antiques began early, inspired by my parents’ own passion for collecting. I did a BA in Art History with the goal of running an art gallery, but over time, my focus shifted. What began as a love for art grew into a fascination for all antiques and the stories they tell.
How have antiques changed over the years?
Over the years, antiques have become more accessible through online platforms and social media which have expanded the market. Buyers now mix styles/ages more freely. The market is very much like that of the fashion industry and styles continue to ebb and flow in and out of favour.
How many years does something have to be before it’s an antique?
100 years or older.
The most bizarre antique you have ever sold?
An antique scientific anatomical model of a horse, normal one side, and the skeleton and body parts on the other.
The best thing about living in Grey Lynn?
I have lived in Grey Lynn for 22 years and I love its diversity. I love that I have had the same neighbours over all this time and it gives a wonderful sense of community and belonging.
What do you like the most about Ponsonby?
Its vibrancy. I love that you can get almost anything from the variety of interesting boutique shops and delicious world class restaurants along Ponsonby road. How nice to also know so many of the shop owners as well.
How did you survive the pandemic?
I moved back in with my parents just before lockdown and I am so grateful to have had some quality time with my parents. As for most in NZ, my business suffered greatly but we are lucky to have survived through.
What was your childhood like?
It was wonderful, growing up in the country on a farm with so many animals as they would sadly be dumped at our farmgate. Mum was known locally as Mrs Dolittle as she saved so many animals! The airing cupboard was always full of baby birds and the tiny bathroom was host to many rescued birds such as Jasper the HUGE seagull for a while as his wing was broken.
I will die happy if?
If I feel like I have made a positive contribution to those around me.
If you were reincarnated, what would you be?
I’d want to be an eagle—flying high, riding the wind, and checking out the world from way up above.
What do you love most about your age?
That no matter what age, I will always be 32 minutes younger than my twin.
Which item do you wish would come back into fashion?
Quality brown furniture. It's experiencing a resurgence, and for good reason. The craftsmanship, design, and patina of these pieces are unmatched and can't be replicated.
Best movie you've ever seen?
I just love The Sound of Music. It was such a big part of my childhood and I defy you to not sing along!
Ever seen a ghost?
Only in the bathroom mirror each morning…but winter pallor is meant to be a good thing , right?
Give your teenaged self some advice?
Try everything while you are young…Don't let the word No creep into your vocabulary
How do you chill out?
Rather predictably I love watching interior design shows such as Quintessence and Home Worthy and multiple episodes of Drew Prichard buying antiques just to make me jealous of all those amazing grand houses and businesses he gets to visit in his own backyard.
Most treasured possession?
A letter from my late Father when I was young on my travels and we had no internet or I phones. He rarely wrote as we would talk on the phone so it was so special to receive a long letter from him. I will treasure it always.
What are you insecure about?
The future of the antique industry is a worry but I am encouraged seeing younger customers coming in who value craftsmanship over MDF and who value the concept of “recycling” to stylishly furnish their homes.
Tell us something very few people know about you?
I managed large insurance call centres overseas , before returning to NZ to follow my passion working in the antique industry.
Greatest fear?
I am claustrophobic so being trapped in a tunnel underground…no caving for me!
www.europeanantiques.co.nz
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Hartnell
