The Designers Corner

With over 60 years of combined design experience, The Custom Space Design team is a powerhouse of creativity and knowledge. 

Together, we'll create designs that exceed your expectations, delivering beautifully crafted, functional spaces tailored just for you.

Arnie Raddock

A highly skilled joinery designer with a Diploma in Interior Design and over five years of specialised experience in kitchen design. In addition to her practical expertise, Arnie has also served as a Lecturer and Tutor, teaching kitchen and bathroom design.

“As a designer, I’m passionate about how our spaces shape the way we live and feel. I have a deep appreciation for mid-century design and love working with earthy, natural aesthetics that create a sense of warmth and timelessness. I believe in simplicity with purpose—where every element has a function and a place”.

 

Courtney Bailey

The Custom Space’s Head of Design. Advanced Diploma in Fashion Design, studying Architectural Technology and over fifteen years’ Design experience across Australia & New Zealand. Courtney approaches each design with a deep understanding of space, structure and client needs.

“I love uncovering the beauty in design with a heavy emphasis on functionality, transforming spaces into inviting places to be lived in. By getting to know my clients, I create environments that reflect their unique personalities and resonate with their lifestyles”.

Gunnar Friese

With a Bachelors Degree and over twenty years of Design experience across Europe and NZ, Gunnar has a wealth of knowledge. His design experience spans cruise ships, luxury yachts and residential house fit-outs to suit every budget. A multi-award winning Designer with a passion for quality.

“My design process always begins with crafting a functional layout. I prioritize simplicity and clean lines, seamlessly integrating architectural details into the cabinetry. Each design element is carefully balanced and proportioned, ensuring a cohesive flow throughout the space, often achieving perfect symmetry”.

Fiona Vidar

Fiona is an award-winning designer with a Degree in Art and a NKBA diploma, she combines her love of colour, texture and details within her carefully crafted spaces. Fulfilling her clients brief is at the heart of Fiona's designs. While popping playful elements within any space she gets her hands on.

 “I am passionate about infusing colour and energy into kitchen designs. I specialise in creating bespoke spaces that reflect individual style and meet each family's unique needs. Focusing on innovative storage, curated layouts, and thoughtful details, I balance practicality with distinctive character, crafting kitchens that foster connection over food, drinks, and lasting memories”.

Iona Priest

Iona is several years into her Design journey, nearing completion of her formal studies (NKBA) and having studied Interior Design in London, she is rapidly establishing herself as a Designer of choice in Nelson with an impressive portfolio to boot.

 

“There are so many elements to designing that I love, so to pick a few…Bouncing ideas back and forth with a client, to create innovative details within their space, that then impacts their everyday life in a more functional and ergonomic way. The best part is when install is complete, and you have a happy client who is really fizzed about their new space! “