Herald Island Staircase

This was my very first project upon returning to NZ in 2005. My clients had purchased a waterfront piece of land on Herald Island, and the architectural plans were the mirror image of the property next door. They asked me to introduce a point of difference, and a wow factor. I had complete freedom to use my imagination in developing the design concept. Besides specifying exterior and interior colour and finishes, I designed a full Exterior & Interior lighting plan , the kitchen,  a bespoke staircase, and custom-made vanities and mirrors for the three bathrooms.  Most of the Ground Floor is laid in Merbau timber, an orange-coloured timber chosen by the client.  To create a continuity of colour and style, I designed the staircase to have Merbau stringers and handrail .  To give the staircase an unexpected element, I designed and coordinated the manufacture of the industrial-style balustrades.  To continue the impact of the Merbau, I also specified the vanities in the downstairs and upstairs Guest Bathrooms be made of Merbau (See Herald Island Ensuite.) ‘I rate Donna very highly. She is great on ideas and pushing out boundaries. Donna introduced creative elements to the house, especially in our bathrooms and kitchen, which have set the house apart from others.’  Homeowner