I’ve always been interested in art and design, in all forms – fine arts, product design, spatial and interior design. I think I ended up pursuing architecture because of its broad requirements, from being playful, creative and visionary to the very structural, tangible elements required for a building to function and perform at the highest level. I like the idea that a well designed building is like a large scale sculpture one can inhabit. Where the interior feels like home to its occupants, and the exterior sits as part of its unique landscape. Each element pushing the other to create aesthetic balance.
Inspired internationally by the likes of Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames and Phillipe Starck, whose works all span and cross over a diverse range of applied arts. All innovative in their approach to design and unafraid to push boundaries and expectations of what it is to be an architect, artist or designer. On a local level, there are many clever people who inspire me, but to sum up; the sculptural form of the Len Lye centre by Patterson Associates, the use of raw materials and classic kiwi bach forms by Herbst Architects, the timeless interior products by Tim Webber and the application and dedication of David Trubridge to lighting and design.
I'm one of five siblings born in the Bay of Plenty to creative hardworking parents. Schooled locally in Te Puke, followed by a stint in Torino, Italy, then Wellington and now here in Tauranga. I studied Interior Design which was put on hold to have a family. Once my three sons were old enough, I returned to study Architecture. Home is at Pukehina Beach in a quintessential kiwi bach, where a simple life can still be found - swimming, walking, fishing and bonfires on the beach are all things that make me happy.
Over the next 5-10 years I want to continue to develop my design skills while working collaboratively with others to create playful, attentive, memorable bespoke design solutions for a diverse range of clients / situations.
Me in a nutshell - humour is key. A childlike curiosity also helps. Good people in your life are like diamonds – treasure them.
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