Serious illness changed plans for Höglund glassblowing artists’ ‘forever home’

It was decades before Marie Simberg-Höglund and her late husband Ola Höglund were able to buy the beautiful Nelson villa they had often walked past. But when it came up for sale in 2021 they were living out of town and bought it “sight unseen”. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

The house has expansive views of Tasman Bay and Haulashore Island. It is also best positioned to capture magnificent sunsets. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

Flashback to 2005: Marie Simberg-Höglund and Ola Höglund of the Höglund Art Studio were photographed for The Dominion Post with one of their glass works. The couple were appointed the official glassblowing artists for the Sydney Olympics in 2000. Photo: Andrew Gorrie

A new kitchen was part of the extensive villa renovation undertaken by the couple. Specially designed shelving displays some of their favourite glass pieces. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

Nothing beats a quiet moment on the veranda on a sunny day. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

The couple restored the original ceiling height of all the rooms. The house has also been double-glazed and new insulation installed. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

A bay window in the living room makes a perfect sunny reading nook. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

The interior showcases a beautifully curated collection of art and furniture. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

The spacious main bedroom also has a stunning bay window - there is also an ensuite bathroom. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

French doors open up the second bedroom to the veranda and the view. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

The house nestles into its site on a 911m² section. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

Marie-Simberg-Höglund says she already misses being able to watch dolphins, seals and ships coming and going. Photo: NZ Sotheby's