ABOUT DONNA WHITE
‘When you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always got.’ Donna White
A career in design was inevitable!
Born into a family with artistic and creative talents, I was no exception and from a very early age developed a passion for design.
Where it all started…
My career began with the establishment of a small company producing New Zealand manufactured high quality bed linen. This venture is what first sparked my interest in interior design and desire to learn more, and I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to attend part time courses here in New Zealand.
These courses gave me a broad overview of the discipline, but more importantly allowed me to immerse myself into the creative world of interior design, thus cementing my decision for a professional design career. It was at this point in time that I knew if I was ever going to achieve my full potential as a professional interior designer, then I needed a formal qualification.
London calling!
In 2000 I left New Zealand and began studying full time at the Inchbald School of Architectural Interior Design in London which is affiliated with the University of Wales.
I’m proud to say I loved every minute of it and graduated with a post graduate diploma in Architectural Interior Design. I am one of the few New Zealander’s to have received this qualification from this prestigious design school.
Working in Europe…
I chose to stay in the UK and take advantage of the many diverse project opportunities on offer. During this time I gained immense experience and undertook a number of incredibly exciting commissions including a 50-room Spanish Hunting Lodge (formerly owned by the King of Spain, now owned by a member of British Aristocracy). I also undertook a conversion of a redundant 18th century church into a contemporary home, and a child’s playroom for the children of a Saudi Prince. My final project was the complete interior refurbishment, to a high specification, of a £5m country home in Surrey, working with leading British Architect, Colin Smith.
Back in New Zealand
Following my arrival in 2005, I quickly established myself as a designer with a difference my philosophy being ‘Classic Design with a Twist’.
In 2008 I was accepted as a Professional Member of the Designers Institute of New Zealand (PDINZ).
I work with a deep knowledge of the principles and elements of design, and believe it’s my professional responsibility to keep abreast of new products and innovations. My skill in asking a client the right questions and turning their dreams into reality is only possible by my ability to listen. Strong follow through and documentation support my work practice. Please see what my clients say about me under ‘Projects’.
Acknowledgement for my work
For three consecutive years I have been a finalist in the Dulux colour awards in both commercial and residential categories in a competition open to both architects and designers throughout Australia and New Zealand.
I have also been a finalist in the New Zealand House and Garden Best Interior awards in the categories of Best Living Room and Best Bathroom.
Today, I am pleased to say that I continue to follow my passion and offer my clients a full service of interior design from my Auckland base. I am an active member of several design syndicates and a regular contributing columnist for the interior design magazine ‘Renovate’.
I hope you enjoy my website.
Kindest regards,
Donna