What sparked your passion for design?
"I remember coming to Europe from New Zealand as a child and being in awe of the historical architecture. It was through visiting stately homes, castles and chateaux that I fell in love with interiors; how the decor, finely crafted furniture and sumptuous fabrics combined with the architecture to create a story, about the people who lived there and how they experienced the world. It really inspired me."

How would you describe your personal style?
"I love all design styles but I definitely gravitate towards colonial interiors; there is an easy charm and comfort that I adore when you fuse European design with native materials and craftsmanship. Handicraft is a passion of mine, inspired by my Maori heritage. Artisans spend their lives honing their craft, thus their pieces are imbued with something special."

If you had to pick one design element to invest in, what would it be?
"Layered lighting – table lamps, floor lamps, wall lights, spots and pendants – is really important, and brings so much versatility to a space. If you’re going to invest your money somewhere, make it lighting. Upholstery, curtains, cushions… they’re easy to change. Your lighting scheme will stick with you."

What would your dream home look like?
"I couldn’t possibly squeeze all my dreams into one home! My next project is to build a multilevel, cantilevered, panoramic house set into a steep hill overlooking the seafront in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. The challenge will be to design the house around the protected native trees on the hillside. I have a vision of bold, brutalist architecture laced around and between the undergrowth. Oh and I’ve always wanted a Bilbo Baggins-style Hobbit hole!"

In another world, you might have been…
"Curator of the British Museum! I'm a huge fan of history, in particular the rise and fall of civilisations that came before us. I’ve spent many hours exploring the cultures, values and beliefs of our forebears through the artifacts they left behind."