KERRY

Kerry was an interior designer for 30 years. A career with plenty of creative challenges and success. But her most recent project – downsizing from a ten-room villa filled with sentimental décor – proved to be one for the record books. “I was a designer, a lecturer, and a collector – and that led me to be a hoarder,” she laughs. 

Being in control of her shift to Ryman’s Bert Sutcliffe Village was important for Kerry. “I did my own designing of the interior space. I knew exactly what I would take and what I wouldn't, and the rest I gave away. My apartment is full of treasures. It’s living on the edge of chaos – but it’s organised chaos!” 

A Birkenhead local, Kerry has lived in the area for 50 years. When it came time for the next step in her retirement plan, she knew Bert Sutcliffe was the right fit for her. “My mother lived here too. I used to visit her regularly as I only lived one street away.” 

When she isn’t updating her apartment’s stunning interior, Kerry enjoys a lively social life. “It never stops,” she laughs. Between lifelong friends, the village community, and her five grandchildren, Kerry’s busy. The kids in particular love their trips to the swimming pool and cafe with Nanny Kerry. “It keeps me very energised. They give you so much.” 

Kerry says she lives her life like something amazing is about to happen. And that philosophy has never led her astray. “I’ve got this sign that says, ‘I'm walking on sunshine’ and I haven't got enough wall space left to put it up! But I live inside my head and it’s always sunny there.” 

Kerry is a curator of beautiful spaces. And between socialising with friends and playing with her grandchildren, she has also curated a beautiful life. Filled with treasured décor and sunshine. That is Kerry’s measure of a full life.