Verve finds inspiration with Natalie Du Bois, owner and director of Du Bois Design.
What sparked your interest in design… and what about it continues to inspire you?
My first real memory of falling in love with design goes back to my childhood when my parents gave me the freedom to redecorate my bedroom. It was such an empowering moment! However, my path into interior design wasn’t direct. After high school, I began training as a chef, but the desire to design never left me. I qualified as an interior designer in Cape Town. My journey then took me to London, where I specialised in kitchen and interior furniture design before finally making my way to New Zealand. Each step along the way has given me a unique perspective, blending creativity with functionality, especially when it comes to designing highly technical spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.
How important is collaboration with clients during the process?
Collaboration with my clients is key. I firmly believe that the best designs come from a strong partnership, where the designer listens to the client’s needs while bringing their professional experience to the table. It’s equally important for the client to trust the designer’s expertise, which creates mutual respect.
Design is not just about the visual, it’s also about understanding how spaces function and ensuring everything works seamlessly. This is especially true for kitchens and bathrooms, which are highly technical spaces. Mistakes in these areas can be expensive to fix, which is why hiring a designer with expertise is essential.
Additionally, the design industry is constantly evolving, and I believe it’s crucial to stay informed about new products, materials, and trends. I spend a lot of time attending design conferences, educational presentations, and international shows to keep up with what’s current and to ensure I’m offering my clients the most up-to-date solutions.
Do you have favourite themes, styles or materials to work with?
One of the things I love most is the opportunity to work with a variety of interior styles. I enjoy creating everything from sleek, modern spaces to more classic, traditional environments. My goal is always to craft interiors that are unique to my clients while still being pleasing to others.
I’m particularly drawn to natural elements. I’m a huge fan of natural stone for surfaces – it’s like functional art in the home. I also love working with natural timber. These materials ground us in the environment and add authenticity. You’ll often see a mix of stone, timber, and metals in my projects, as I find they add a sense of timelessness.
Where would we most likely find you when not designing?!
Usually immersed in the world of food! Whether it’s exploring the amazing cafes and restaurants we have here or cooking and entertaining at home, food is a big passion of mine. I also have a special interest in healthy, natural, and gluten-free options, as I have an autoimmune condition that prevents me from eating gluten. This personal connection to food has deepened my appreciation for how important the spaces where we cook, eat, and gather really are.
