Interior architects Toni Brandso and Liv Patience from award-winning studio Material Creative are just back from a trip to Europe and share the latest international trends with Uptown magazine.

Toni and Liv co-founded Material Creative in 2009 and offer full interior architecture and design services for commercial and residential projects both in Aotearoa and overseas.

Earlier this year, they dusted off their suit- cases and headed to Europe, spending 10 days immersed in what they describe as “the most wonderful design inspiration alongside an amazing bunch of designers”.

They say Europe is always at least a couple of years ahead of the southern hemisphere and this was clearly evident at the Euro- Shop trade fair and in the stores and restaurants. They found it “a breath of fresh creative air” and an invaluable source of inspiration.

“As designers, our focus is not just on aesthetics, but on the emotions and experiences a space evokes,” says Liv.

“We particularly loved the Zimmermann store in Barcelona, where an eclectic mix of beautiful vintage pieces, ranging from light fittings to seating and rugs, were curated in a residential way, adding interest and texture.”

The highlight of their trip was a two-day immersion in the work of architect and designer Antoni Gaudí. The homage to the natural world is evident, and it was hard to not feel overwhelmed by the beauty. The way Gaudí merged the past, present and future in his work by looking to science and forms found in nature means his designs are still as relevant today as the day they were created.

Throughout their trip, Toni and Liv discovered five key design aesthetics that left a lasting impression (see below).

Material Creative moved to their Uptown studio from K Rd just over a year and a half ago and the team are enjoying the precinct’s city vibe with a neighbourhood feel.

“It's got a really nice feeling. I like the great cafés and that the café owners tend to know your name,” says Toni.

“It’s also so convenient for us and our staff, coming from all parts of the city, being just off the motorway, and there is more parking around than K Rd.”

Toni and Liv describe themselves as interior designers on steroids. Their point of difference is, as interior architects, they can facilitate consents for commercial projects. They also do bespoke product design.

Their first project was the iconic Piha Café and they have since gone on to wow clients and win awards. Accolades have rolled in for projects with the international Naumi Hotel chain; Tax Traders; Morningside Tavern; and a residential home in Pt Chevalier. Their work is courageous, often featuring intense vibrant colour, and they love to encourage their clients to be adventurous and authentic. 

Since Covid, their business has expanded from mainly commercial jobs into a growing number of residential projects, with the business now being 50/50 commercial and residential. They’re also taking on international clients for projects in Aotearoa and overseas.

Current projects include a refresh of the restaurant Mexico in Britomart, with one of the co-owners of the Piha Café on the consultation team, as well as a residential project in Portland, Oregon, for a well- known food blogger.

Material Creative’s studio has long-standing, strong relationships and proudly collaborates with leading architects, landscapers, builders, developers, consultants, hoteliers, restaurateurs, graphic designers and brand strategists to achieve world class and award- winning results.

“Our aspiration is to create spaces that resonate with people and to tell a unique story for each client,” says Patience.

“If you’re embarking on a new residential or commercial project, we would love to collaborate with you,” she says. 

5 Key Trends from Europe Interiors

1. Furniture as Art

Art and objects are transforming interiors into curated galleries and creating holistic interiors with soul and personality.

2. Natural Connection: Timber

The art of mixing different tones and species of timber, in various forms from furniture to flooring, to infuse warmth, texture and organic beauty into living spaces.

3. Union of Old and New

The art of seamlessly blending vintage and modern aesthetics. The deliberate juxtaposition of the character of vintage pieces and the sleekness and innovation of contemporary design.

4. Colour Confidence

A fearless approach to colour in vibrant and visually striking spaces. Warm natural shades mixed with bright tones create an eclectic and lively ambience. Lighting, as always, plays a crucial role. Particular colours of note: lilac; vintage pink paired with chartreuse for contrast; and lemon and yellow. White takes a backseat, making way for the incoming creams, warm neutrals and beige shades that provide a softer and warmer palette.

5. Craftsmanship

In a world dominated by mass production, this trend pushes back against the tide and emphasises the importance of quality. When it comes to furniture and decor, the focus is on bringing in key antique pieces or crafting beautiful details into new furniture and cabinetry, rather than opting for replicas or cheap imitations. There are so many talented makers in New Zealand crafting beautiful furniture and fittings. Get in touch if you want a list of our favourites! 



Material Creative

4/62 Randolph Street

Ph: 0212 539 695
Web: materialcreative.co.nz
Email: hello@materialcreative.co.nz