Interiors built on good decisions

I design layered, character rich spaces that aren’t driven by trends- & don’t date.

Considered. Built to get better with age.

Interiors with depth, confidence & a clear point of view.

How I work

My work spans residential and commercial interiors - design direction, spatial resolution & procurement.

I ask direct questions & listen carefully.

Budget is addressed early. It sets the direction & defines the outcome.

Materials , layouts & joinery are resolved with long term use in mind, always.

The relationship is collaborative, but I lead the process to ensure clarity & a resolved outcome.

I work through a single, considered design engagement rather than tiered packages.

My work is hands on, site responsive & grounded in real world delivery.

Projects are taken on selectively to ensure continuity & spaces that get better with age.

1. Project Consultation

Where things stand, where they need to go.

We talk through how the space is used, what’s not working, and what matters.
Plans and early ideas get a proper look.

You leave with a clear direction. Or we both agree it’s not the right fit.

2. Concept Design


This is where it starts to come together.

Layout, materials and overall feel are resolved early, so the direction is clear.
Key decisions are made up front, not deferred.

It’s about getting it right at the start, rather than adjusting it as you go.

3. Detailed Design


This is where the work is properly defined.

Joinery, materials and key decisions are developed with the right people involved.
Everything is thought through before it hits site.

No guesswork. No last-minute fixes.

4. Project Delivery


Seeing it through, properly.

I stay involved with builders and trades to make sure things are carried out as intended.
Questions get answered, decisions keep moving, and details are followed through.

The end result is a space that feels settled and makes sense.

Good interiors take time.
They’re worked through properly, then built that way.






Process

Interior of a room with wood-paneled ceiling, a gray wall with colorful deer head sculptures, and dark wood tables with chairs.
A framed black and white photograph of a pig standing on a surface, with a large orange vase with a white flower and green leaves, and a decorative round box with a textured surface in front of the photograph.

unexpected details matter.

Wooden cylindrical pendant lamp hanging from ceiling, with warm interior lighting, in a modern interior space.

Initial design consultation

This is where everything begins.


A focused 1.5 hour session to understand your space, your priorities, and what’s worth pursuing.

We review how the space works, what’s not working & where it needs to go.
Plans and early ideas are assessed properly.

You leave with a clear direction — or we both agree it’s not the right fit.

Fees, duration & process

Fees are based on full-scope projects and vary depending on scale, complexity and time.

A clear fee proposal follows the initial consultation.
Ongoing work proceeds by mutual agreement.

Consultation

1.5 hour consultation
$490 incl. GST

Architects, developers & builders

If you’re looking to collaborate, contact me directly to discuss scope and alignment.

Note

This service is an initial consultation only — providing advice, direction and assessment.


Riah McLean Design - Ōtepoti

Photography - Isabella Harrex