DESIGN QUEENS
Susie and Teassa Paynter of The Duchamp Collective take inspiration from nature when combining beauty and functionality to create remarkable interior spaces.
We talk to Susie and Teassa Paynter from The Duchamp Collective.
SUSIE & TEASSA PAYNTER THE DUCHAMP COLLECTIVE Susie, tell us about your pathway into design and how you and Teassa eventually came to open a practice together.
My background into design started with a graphic design degree many years ago.
I then worked in an engineer’s office, and then had the opportunity of having interior design input into some commercial projects which were being developed by my husband’s development and construction company. That gave me many opportunities for future projects including office buildings, retirement villages, resorts and residential developments.
Teassa also achieved a graphic design degree, and her love for interiors was a natural fit. She has the ability to push my thought process, and often after discussion we achieve a great result. Teassa also brings the current technologies to our practice.
What are the defining values of your practice?
A calm, considered love of creating something we are proud of, by involving all aspects of the design process. We relish using the collective process, which includes managing the many aspects of creating a balanced living environment, including architecture, interior and landscape design.
How do you combine beauty and function?
The functionality of a successful project is paramount. The beauty of the project evolves from the brief and the personality of the client, and the selection of materials, furniture and accessories to create balance within the spaces.
What is the most significant project you’ve designed to date and why?
We have designed many significant projects throughout New Zealand for more than 30 years, and it is difficult to highlight a single project; however, high-quality residential projects give us great satisfaction because they are individual living spaces for family and friends to enjoy. Significant projects range from a luxury apartment building in Christchurch containing seven high-quality apartments, to the conversion of a 120-year-old woolshed, which is now a wine tasting and cellar door, in Queenstown, Central Otago.
Where do you look for inspiration?
Nature is our inspiration. It is in complete balance ... it can be both bold and subtle ... but it all works together. Nature does not fail!
What is the most meaningful piece of advice you’ve been given in your career?
Be sensitive and considered. Respect all your sub-trade contractors and tradesmen, who will then achieve a quality, excellent result.
What are some of your favourite design stores?
We love Ralph Lauren for its intensity and impact, and Restoration Hardware for its bold profiling of its designs and branding.
What elements are most important for you when designing a space? Do you have a signature feature for each project?
Designing a space has to relate to the whole. We believe very strongly in weight and balance in a space. We do not believe in features or trends. Our goal is to create something that has not yet been achieved.
What materials and colour palettes do you most like working with at the moment and why?
Material palettes relate to each project. We love working with textures and clear colours. Getting the colour palette right is essential, and warm whites and ivories are very relaxing. We love stone and natural timbers that complement each other.
What are you working on at the moment?
We have several new projects we are working on, including high-end homes and visitor accommodation for the ever-growing tourist market in New Zealand.
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“WE BELIEVE IN WEIGHT AND BALANCE IN A SPACE.” THE DUCHAMP COLLECTIVE