Queenstown Interiors and Wanaka Interiors are recognised nationally for their award-winning and dynamic interior design. Created by Julia Foley and Janine Fitchew the business is a reflection of their combined designer styles, talents and expertise.

QT Magazine spoke to Janine about their design services and philosophies.

• What types of interior design services do you offer?

We offer a wide range of design services from full interior packages on new builds to working on renovation projects to clients that want to freshen up their homes or individual rooms with fresh paint, carpet, and curtains. We also provide full furnishing packages that include sourcing furniture, bedding, art and linen – everything required to complete the house.

• How does the interior design process work and when is the best time to get it underway to achieve the best results?

Generally, projects are broken up into three stages. Ideally, we are engaged early on to assist with layout design, indoor/outdoor flow and window treatments including motorisation. Understanding how clients want to live in their home or holiday house is very important. During the preliminary stages we discuss lighting, electrical plans, internal wall treatments, finishes and flooring options –all the nuts and bolts of the house.

From there, we move into soft furnishings and furniture options including decorative lighting, wallpaper, drapes, blinds and shutters. We communicate with all the trades during the build process to ensure time management of products and services through to completion. The final stage is the installation of all the furniture and fittings, so the house looks stunning for the clients – that’s the exciting part when you get to see it come together.

• Why do you think engaging a qualified interior design team can add more value to a home?

When a client engages with us they get the support of an entire team of specialists who will streamline and manage the process. We can make sure they end up with a cohesive design, effectively becoming the glue between the client, the builder and all the services. We pride ourselves on listening and working alongside clients, so they receive professional advice which achieves the desired results. As a small percentage of the total build price, it is well worth having our interior service to bring your vision to life.

• Why has the business been so successful?

Apart from our love of all things design – our success is based on listening to clients and guiding them towards a positive result. It’s a personal relationship that is developed over a period of time and hugely rewarding. We work with many overseas clients who we often only meet once or twice but the results speak for themselves.