In the light-filled, brick-walled space above floral studio Isadia (see our story p24, 25), with mighty Maungawhau filling the frame of one window, 32-year-old Izzy found the perfect space to display her wares and opened On Hand shortly before the end of 2024. 

She does it artfully. A couple of racks of clean, crease-free second-hand clothing are hung in a way that tells you the designer has an eye for colour, shape and fabric. Two large tables are thoughtfully strewn with vintage tableware and a selection of new, handmade items, including jewellery made by the mother who instilled the love of op-shopping in Izzy. Mum is Lucinda Barnett, now a celebrated jewellery designer with a background as a painter. The creative streak runs in the family. Izzy studied communications and worked for Splore Festival for a decade, a highly creative work setting that surely rubbed off some its of magic. While there’s no festivalesque bio-glitter or face paint to be seen at On Hand, Izzy’s space does share the thrilling quality of a box of dress-ups and the promise of a wee browse uncovering wonderful treasures. 

It’s the type of experience you just can’t get virtually. Although Izzy began her business selling online and at markets, she always knew she wanted a permanent bricks and mortar space. “Vintage items are particularly tactile and vintage clothing sizing is tricky,” says Izzy. “An online experience doesn’t afford the chance to see things up close, to touch and try.”

She says what she chooses to stock here “is a response to the space, which has a loft vibe, and you almost don’t feel like you’re in Auckland”. She wants On Hand to feel like a welcoming and comfortable space “for people who might not normally shop second- hand, because the jumble of goods can be overwhelming. This space is designed to be calm and chill”.

Izzy says she is “obsessed with Pinterest” and uses the visual planner to work out how she will arrange displays in store. The space lends itself to workshops and other events; Izzy recently welcomed woodworker and designer Courtney Petley to craft wooden spheres with a class and she has a ceramicist booked in for the next gig.