Projects

Working alongside architect Stephen Crooks, from Chaplin Crooks, the very best materials, such as swamp kauri, marble, and other fittings were used in this impressive home on a lakeside setting in Christchurch. Extensive use of marble makes the ensuite a stunner. A muted colour palette suits the use of natural materials. A graceful black crystal chandelier from Italy in the entrance hall makes a captivating focal point. The indoor swimming pool feels light and spacious with its cathedral ceiling.

The client purchased this architecturally designed home empty and asked Karen to design and supply all the furnishings, furniture and accessories. All are bespoke or sourced pieces chosen to work in the spaces. The home had existing schist feature walls, oak floors, charcoal grey and white surfaces, which are enhanced by a sumptuous wool rug, a crafted side board, dining and coffee table. The hanging lights in the entrance appear to swim in space. The home is enlivened by bright splashes of colour with various artworks, including some by acclaimed artist Cristina Popovici.

Karen designed the kitchen, which won first place in the Builders’ Home of the Year Awards. Located on the rural outskirts of Christchurch, the home features contemporary furniture and furnishings. Bright splashes of colour offset neutral walls and surfaces. Lighting has received special attention: LED lights add drama and colour to the wine cellar; while lighting to the kitchen and living spaces is unobtrusive. The mood is light, airy and sunny no matter what the weather is doing.

Robin White architectural designer from R.W.D designed this home.

The owners of this older established Christchurch home wanted to revitalize the interior during earthquake renovations while preserving its character. Karen helped project manage the repair and met tradespeople on site. Sumptuous fabrics and richly patterned wallpapers in deep red, dark gold with embossed motifs, complement the existing Axminster carpet. Chandeliers, mirrors, artwork, and mahogany furniture were also existing and were to be returned once the repair work was completed, while some new furniture with different textures of black velvet and a Sanderson Peacock velvet feature fabric were added.

A warm and welcoming ambience makes everyone feel comfortable in this new farmhouse in North Canterbury. Karen designed the interior to look good and remain timeless for years to come. The elegantly scrolled kitchen joinery designed by Karen has a classic look, combining with a handmade tiled wall and a smooth granite work surface. The large black range and butler’s sink are modern versions of beloved country favourites. The bathroom is similarly elegant, while the dining and living room are characterised by rich but subtle colours.

Robin White architectural designer from R.W.D designed this home.

Oakleys Bathroom Centre in Christchurch asked Karen to create some exciting new display areas. Karen’s love of drama and attention to detail are evident in the use of hanging lights, sculptural forms such as a crystal globe basin, gleaming colours of black and white and copper, and the clever juxtaposition of artworks and geometric-patterned wall coverings.

The owners of this Tekapo holiday home wanted their living environment to blend in sympathetically and seamlessly with the stunning surrounding landscape. A beautiful range of colours was used throughout the home. To bring out the ‘water element’ of the surrounding environment a mixture of aqua colours and glass were used, including a blue glass front door and a kitchen splash back in rippled turquoise glass. The textured carpet, timber floors and ply ceilings bring in natural products to create a feeling of relaxation. The kitchen’s centrepiece, the island, sports a polished granite worktop, which offers tantalising views of the lake beyond.

When rebuilding this coastal home, which used a similar existing footprint, the client wanted a hint of Japanese ambience. This was captured with the use of restful colours, and a design which draws the eye out to the views over the river. Christchurch architect Stephen Cooks created a strong presence with a selection of black brick, copper spoutings, cedar louvers and upright forms. Karen complemented this with the use of natural materials, including oak floors, plush wool carpet, oak feature cabinets, balanced with black, earth tones, and a bluestone feature wall. The kitchen was designed by Ingrid Geldoff.