My Home: Jenny and Christo Saggers

Jenny and Christo Saggers have called their hilltop haven home for 15 years, sharing it with their three teenage children, Skye the dog, and Ziggy the cat. As the creative minds behind their interior and landscaping design business, Collaborate, the couple have poured their expertise into creating a space that balances modern style with family-friendly comfort.

Photos: Aimée Preston

Our story

We designed the house ourselves, with Christo presenting a scale model to the draughtsmen. Living on a hill, we wanted to make the most of the views, while also needing protection from the wind, so the house was designed to accommodate both. It’s relaxed, inviting, very family and animal friendly, and comfortable.

Style and decorating inspiration

We wanted something modern with lots of glass so we could take in the beautiful views. We also wanted it to be energy efficient, so we opted for concrete floors which heat up in the winter when the sun pours in. We love plywood, so we used that on the ceiling in the downstairs living area which adds an aesthetic warmth to the space. It’s hard to pinpoint my exact decorating style, but I probably tend towards Scandinavian design. I love the warmth and cosiness of Scandinavian interiors, the soft colour palette, and the mix of various textures – from linen fabrics to beautiful ceramics and wood.

I would never part with…

It’s not exactly a piece, but I could never part with my photo walls in the kitchen. They are a history of our lives, full of so many wonderful memories. I look at them every day and it makes me smile.

Save or splurge?

We mainly save, but we did splurge on the large pot in the entranceway, which was perfect for the space. We also splurged on the David Trubridge pendants, which 15 years later I still love. We have saved by Christo being very handy and making things such as the dining table, and shelving and cabinetry in the living areas. He also frames my artwork. I would love to buy lots of beautiful art, we have decorated the walls with pieces I have painted myself, but I am very keen on art and would love to start my own collection.

Favourite nooks

I love my green and white living room. It’s so peaceful, the sun pours in, and I can put my feet up with a cup of tea and look out to the view. Its gives me a lot of joy. I also adore our courtyard garden. When the wind is blowing it is incredibly sheltered, and when it gets too hot it is the perfect spot to be, especially when the water feature is on which Christo built.

Every home should have…

There are several things I think every home should have – plants and flowers, meaningful pieces that tell a story, photos, and lots of books! To me these make a home.

Anything you’d change?

I would have a back door and a mudroom! This was a major oversight on our part. It’s a battle trying to keep the entranceway tidy with muddy gumboots and shoes everywhere.

Best advice

When you need a change, get the paint brush out and transform a room by painting it. For a small amount of money, you can create a whole new look. It’s so easy to do, plus it doesn’t cost much if you do it yourself.

Our neighbourhood

We are close to town yet still very much in the country. We have lots of great neighbours and it is always very social for the adults and kids alike. There’s always someone to share a wine with!

Best memory

There have been so many, but one that stands out is the surprise 75th birthday we threw for my mum. It was a beautiful day, and we had an Italian-style long lunch outside with all the family – precious memories indeed.