Verve pulls up a pew with Design Warehouse managing director Nigel Richardson.
Can you share the design philosophy behind Design Warehouse?
Our philosophy over the past 35 years has been about displaying and stocking designs across the full design spectrum, from the latest trends of the day through to the traditional timeless models. Our current Parnell showroom has the country’s biggest range and selection of quality outdoor furniture. We also carry all models in stock in substantial quantities in our distribution warehouse meaning we can supply and deliver immediately – whether for a home or commercial project. Our size also enables us to offer far lower prices. This is what sets us apart!
How do you approach balancing form and function?
Form versus function has changed significantly over the last 30-plus years, with function taking on just as much importance. This is largely due to outdoor spaces now being viewed as extra living areas. People still want good design, but comfort is very much a pre-requisite now and ultimately now you can have both at the same time. Our range of models reflect both.
Could you explain the process behind selecting and sourcing materials?
We only use the highest quality materials, and we have had longstanding relationships of over 20 years with most of our suppliers and factories. Whether it be teak, concrete, aluminium, stainless steel, wicker, rope and outdoor fabrics, if it isn’t the best material available, we simply don’t manufacture and sell it. All our products will stand up to the NZ outdoor elements year in, year out.
How does Design Warehouse ensure products are environmentally friendly as can be?
We’ve always ensured that our factories are sourcing and using sustainable and renewable raw materials and processes and are able to provide us the required certifications to prove they are doing so.
What are the biggest trends in outdoor living spaces and what do you think will be the most exciting upcoming trends and innovations?
Predicting this is difficult. Trends tend to be led by Europe, and it can take 2-3 years before they catch on in other markets. Often, we’ve been early to the market, and it has taken a couple of seasons before gaining good traction, but that can happen when trying to be at the forefront of where the market is heading.
You must be excited about your upcoming move, what can customers expect from the new showroom?
Yes, we are very excited! We’ve created another massive showroom in a great furniture area at 25 Nugent Street, just off Khyber Pass. Some of our neighbours include Studio Italia, ECC, Simon James Design, and more, so we’re excited to
be joining the go-to area for high-end furniture.
Any other upcoming projects, news or collections that you’d like to share?
We’ve just launched our new website for our Italian indoor furniture collections (designitalia.co.nz). All of our Design Italia indoor upholstery collections are designed and made in Italy using Italian- made fabrics. Like our outdoor furniture ranges, we carry all models in stock with immediate availability, so no lead times, and again, at lower prices.
We’re incorporating a purpose-built mezzanine into our new Nugent Street showroom specifically to display all of our Design Italia indoor furniture ranges.
