Rockbourn House is one of Dunedin's grand old dames.
The historic York Pl house was home to playwright Roger Hall for nearly 20 years, the childhood home of musician Calder Prescott and it has also provided student accommodation.
Now a new chapter in its history has begun with the opening of Gallery on York, stocking jewellery, art and mirrors.
The house was bought by Brigetta Anselmi-Hewett earlier this year, when the Australian-based former owner decided to refocus his business.
Sandy Keen, who had previously spent six years working in the business, is now managing the new venture, a role she described as ‘‘the best job in the world''.
With a love of fashion and jewellery, combined with a love of people, it was a perfect fit, Ms Keen said.
She stressed it was a gallery, not a shop; a place where people could wander, try on jewellery, have a laugh and feel at home, and leave happy, without feeling obligated to buy something.
It was a destination in Dunedin, a place where people would bring visiting family and friends from out-of-town, and where women could catch up with each other.
Brides-to-be and ball-goers were welcome to bring their gowns to fit their jewellery for special occasions.
The artwork was being sourced from Auckland, from artist Roy Lissiman, whose career revolved around textile design. He was now focused on painting.
For Ms Keen, getting Gallery on York operating has been a welcome focus following a difficult start to the year. Following a horse accident in October last year, she contracted septicaemia between Christmas and New Year.
That entailed two weeks in hospital, three operations and being ‘‘very, very unwell''.
She loved working in the house, saying it had an ‘‘energy'' to it. The garden was also open to the public.
