Opulence doesn’t have to mean grandeur or high cost. New Zealand designer and author Michael Mansvelt, who has spent three decades creating home, interior, and landscape projects, believes luxury can be found in everyday life by staying true to your values and embracing creativity. In his book Everyday Opulence, Mansvelt shows us how to bring luxury to ordinary spaces on any budget.

Mansvelt’s approach is informed by a lifetime of experiences, from his upbringing in Hāwera to working at Britain’s Welbeck Abbey. He encourages people to focus on what they love, whether that is a cherished piece of furniture, a small plant, or a view from a window. True luxury, he says, comes from connection, care, and attention to detail, not perfection or following trends.

Gardens are central to Mansvelt’s philosophy. Even modest outdoor spaces can feel opulent when they are carefully considered. Using plants, textures, and natural materials creates a sense of richness. Repurposing existing items adds character and a personal touch. An old ladder can become a plant stand, a wooden crate can hold herbs, and vintage furniture or heirlooms can anchor a space with history. These elements make a home feel lived-in, meaningful, and luxurious without excessive spending.

Mansvelt also stresses the importance of honesty in design. Homes should reflect the people who live in them, not the latest trends or magazine aesthetics. Comfort, warmth, and memories matter more than perfection. He notes that overly curated or “perfect” spaces can feel unwelcoming, whereas homes that show care and personality feel truly rich. Bringing nature indoors through plants, fabrics, wallpapers, or natural textures enhances both compact and large spaces, offering calm and grounding in daily life.

Mansvelt’s ideas echo lessons from his own childhood. He recalls Leonie and Eric Warren, who created a sense of richness in their modest 1890s cottage through attention to detail, thoughtful gardening, and the simple act of setting aside special moments. Their home demonstrated that luxury is not about money but about cherishing what you have and making it beautiful. Their garden thrived through repurposing, composting, and careful cultivation, proving that creativity and care can transform humble spaces into something timeless and opulent.

Opulence, according to Mansvelt, is found in intention, attention, and love. By focusing on what brings joy, celebrating craftsmanship, connecting with nature, and making the most of what is already at hand, anyone can cultivate spaces that feel rich and meaningful. Everyday luxury is accessible, sustainable, and deeply satisfying when it reflects personal values, memories, and creativity.