Putting a contemporary twist on Queenstown’s oldest wooden house, Williams Cottage, has reinvigorated it for a new generation.

Joanne Walker, and her daughter Ellesha, saw instant appeal when they took over design store Vesta, based in the Marine Parade cottage last year.

“Even though it was a little tired and unloved at the time, it was unique and charming and the potential was there to transform this little gem,” says Joanne.

“We’ve invested new energy and vibrancy into the store by de-cluttering the outside to reveal beautiful English gardens with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu. We have added vintage coffee cart Life’s a Grind which serves the best coffee with the best views.”

Inside the cottage, the historic rooms have been refreshed with an affordable New Zealand made range of candles, honey, local wood, ceramics, artwork by local artists such as Emma Kate Hall and modern jewellery by Louise Douglas and Lola Loves Queenstown.

“Our children’s boutique room is a delightful collection of vintage fashion, books, jigsaws, soft toys and collectables.  We stock David Trubridge lights with a stunning cascade of his beautiful light pendants visible throughout the store. We provide a discount for locals and have an easy and efficient ordering system.”

“Our customers are mostly tourists looking for something special to take home, but increasingly who are realising there is something new and exciting happening in our store.”

Lola Loves Queenstown

Designing her own modern line of jewellery, since moving to Queenstown, is an exciting development for Ellesha Walker

A lack of choice in town inspired me to fulfil my creative side. The jewellery is a modern, wearable collection suitable for everyone. The style is very much on trend from classic gem drops to torte hoops, ocean pearl earrings to floral drops. There is really something for everyone.”

Ellesha has worked hard on her brand image an social media, in particular her Instagram LolalovesQueenstown, that has attracted influencers throughout New Zealand and Australia.

” I wanted to have Queenstown in my brand as I love living here, hence the Lola Loves Queenstown name tag.”