interior design services
Interior design guided by story, built to last.
We do not create fast-fashion interiors. We work around the world to shape interiors with feeling—homes that hold lifelong memories. Shops that invite curiosity. Restaurants for slow meals with friends. Bars for dancing all night. From heritage buildings to giving soul to new builds, we collaborate with clients, craftspeople, and consultants to carry each bespoke project from early ideas through to the final install.
Here’s how we typically work, and what you can expect from us along the way.
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We have an in depth (and fun!) workshop and conversation about what you are looking to achieve and what you can expect from your budget. We take photos and dimensions of the spaces and property. Local council or city reports are ordered as needed, and we ask for any drawings you may have copies of.
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We share a presentation with comparative examples and some initial sketches (this is a Schematic Document phase, in design-speak). This presentation is a collaborative document that we ask you write notes in and even add in your own inspiration images. This phase makes sure we are all on the same page. We will offer some initial space planning studies (e.g. how you might arrange rooms so people move through the space effectively).
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We produce a set of drawings and 3D renderings, and send out a package of material samples for review. This is also a collaborative phase that we ask for open and honest feedback on. We will also get some initial pricing from trades to review against the budget.
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We flesh out these design drawings to create construction documents, and obtain mechanical or structural engineering drawings as required. We have partners who will send these out for council permitting if necessary. This can happen concurrently with the bidding phase below.
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We send out drawings to contractors to receive final pricing, and make sure we are meeting budget and schedule. Shop drawings from cabinet or furniture makers are also reviewed.
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The trades get to work! We attend site meetings and walk through regularly to deal with any hiccups. We keep you updated on progress and manage everyone’s expectations.
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If the project includes extensive movable furnishings, fixtures, or rugs, these are all held at a warehouse as they arrive. They are then moved in at one time, after construction is finished.
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We walk the job to make sure it is finished to a high standard, and outstanding items are noted and fixed. Council or city sign offs are organized. Depending on the project, we ask if we can have professional photographs taken.
We then all have a drink to celebrate a finished job!
frequently asked questions
What cities do you work in?
We’re mainly based in Auckland, New Zealand — but we work across Aotearoa and often take on international projects too. Our second home is New York. We have trusted team members in Auckland, London, and NYC.
Do you work on homes or commercial projects?
Both — if the brief feels aligned with our vibe, we’re in. We take on residential and commercial work at all scales, from small homes to larger spaces, as long as we think we would be a good fit.
Do you work with other trade professionals?
Yes — and we believe the best projects are deeply collaborative. While we don’t hire trades on your behalf (you’ll contract them directly), we’ll work closely with everyone involved to make sure the vision stays cohesive and beautifully executed.
Is there a contract?
Yes — we use a clear and friendly design agreement. It outlines the scope, fees, and expectations so we’re both on the same page from day one. No surprises, just transparency.
I don’t know what style I want – can you still help?
Of course. That’s the magic of working with us. We’ll take all those swirling ideas in your head and help shape them into a clear direction that feels like home — and feels like you.
How do you charge?
Most of our work is billed hourly, invoiced biweekly. For larger and commercial scopes, we offer a flat design fee once we have a good idea of the brief.
Are you interior designers or architects?
Whilst we mostly focus on interior design and interior architecture, we offer overall architectural services when required. If you would like to use your own architect on your project and have us jump in to just manage the interiors, we are happy to do so too.
What does an interior designer do?
Every designer has a slightly different process, but ours usually looks like the list above—we are flexible in which stages you might want us to jump into however.
What’s the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator?
Designers handle structural layouts, joinery, lighting, materials and finishes, plumbing layouts, furniture, and art — everything but the outside cladding (although we often consult on that too!). We can also be called Interior Architects. Decorators focus more on the finishing layers: colours, fabrics, styling. At Studio Sio, we do all of these.
When should I hire you guys?
Ideally, early — before the project starts so we can make sure everything will work. But we can step in at any point, whether you’re building, renovating, or just want a fresh take. We’re especially useful when time, energy, or vision are in short supply.
Do you have access to more products than I do?
We do. We work with trade-only suppliers and have access to custom pieces that aren’t available off the shelf or are fully customizable. That means more options, more finishes, and more ways to tailor a space just for you.
What will our project cost?
That depends on the size and complexity of your project. If you have a rough budget, we can guide you on where and how to allocate it. We always provide clear estimates for every element of the design and implementation—and you approve everything before we order anything.
Do we need to use your contractors?
Nope - you’re totally free to contract your own builder or trades. We’re happy to collaborate with whoever you choose — and if you need recommendations, we have a ever-growing list of great people!