my journey
The journey behind room of finds
room of finds was born from a lifelong appreciation for creativity, beautiful spaces, and the stories behind the things we choose to surround ourselves with. But the journey to bringing it to life has also been deeply personal.
My background in visual arts and fashion shaped my love of craftsmanship, thoughtful design and individuality. I have always been drawn to pieces that carry character, evoke a feeling and make you want to know more.
Years working in horse racing taught me patience, dedication and the importance of recognising potential. It was a career I loved, built on trust, care and commitment—values I bring with me into room of finds. Through my time in real estate, I also saw how closely our homes reflect our lives. The artwork on the walls, the objects collected over time and the details we choose all become part of our story.
Two years ago, my life changed. The reality I knew shattered. I walked away from so much of what I had built in my personal life and a successful career in racing. At the time, it felt as though I had nothing left.
As I began trying to rediscover myself and what mattered to me, I faced another hurdle—this time with my health. I had thought I couldn’t get any lower, and suddenly I was facing something I had never imagined.
I questioned everything. Why was this happening? Why did I feel as though I was being punished when I hadn’t been a bad person? It was hard to make sense of where I was and how much had changed.
But I wanted to survive. I fought harder for myself and for my children, and slowly began to realise that this was my life. For once, I got to choose what came next.
Being creative has always been my therapy—a way to release the frustrations, feelings and complexities that build up within me. Now I had the time and space to explore that part of myself more fully. I have always had big dreams and ideas, but too often I had let them fall away because someone told me I couldn’t, or didn’t support my vision. Now I had the opportunity to follow them, with only myself to answer to.
Over time, I began to trust that however low I had been, I could be okay again. More than okay—I could create a life I chose and loved.
Today, I am fully well and feel more like my true self than I have in a long time. Although I have taken a step back from racing, horses have been a huge part of my life and always will be. The desire to bring together a creative platform finally had room to grow.
That is how room of finds began.
It brings together original art, design and distinctive pieces by New Zealand creators, with space for the people and stories behind the work. I want it to be somewhere artists feel valued, where people can discover something unexpected, and where a piece can find its way into someone’s home and become part of their story.
I have learnt so much over these past two years. Giving my time and energy to something I love has brought a sense of purpose and excitement back into my life. I feel I am in my sweet spot now, and I’m honoured to share this space with the amazing people I am meeting along the way.
My hope is that room of finds gives people a reason to pause, look closer and discover something they connect with. A place where creators feel supported, their stories are heard, and their work finds a home where it will be loved. There is so much talent here in New Zealand, and I’m excited to share it with you.
Where rooms tell stories and discoveries begin.
Emma
