Interior Designer Matt Reid Discusses All-White Interiors and Home Renovation

Interior designer Matt Reid, currently the design lead at Warren and Mahoney in Wellington, has earned recognition as the “Emerging Design Professional” at the 2025 Interior Awards. In an interview, Reid shared insights into his passion for design, his personal experiences with home renovation, and advice for homeowners.

Passion for Design and Client Satisfaction

Reid, 35, has spent over a decade in the architecture field, contributing to projects throughout New Zealand. He emphasizes that every client and site presents unique challenges and opportunities, which is central to his design philosophy. “One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is experiencing our clients moving into their new space,” he said. “Seeing the sense of pride and inspiration in the way we envisioned, and sometimes in unexpected ways, is truly fulfilling.”

In his role, Reid acknowledges the multifaceted nature of design work, requiring a broad knowledge base across various topics and industries. His journey began in Taranaki, where early exposure to construction through his father, a plumber, ignited his interest in architecture. Reid went on to study at Victoria University of Wellington, earning a Master of Interior Architecture (MIA) in 2013.

Innovative Design Values

Reid’s award-winning presentation highlighted his design values focused on people, place, and possibilities. “People are the spark that ignites an environment,” he explained. By listening to clients and understanding their needs, Reid aims to create spaces that resonate with their lifestyles. He draws inspiration from the immediate context of each project, crafting a sense of place and belonging.

“I love a challenge,” he added, “the feeling of being comfortably uncomfortable with a problem, turning it into a success story.” This approach has shaped his work and how he views the role of design in enhancing everyday life.

Reid and his wife, Natasha Kowalak-Reid, reside in Pinehaven, Upper Hutt, where they purchased their first home in 2018. Initially described as “an easy embrace” by the real estate agent, the property—a 1946 weatherboard house—required significant renovations. “It felt colder on the inside than outside,” he recalled, noting their determination to transform the space.

Over the years, the couple undertook extensive renovations, including gutting the interior, improving insulation, and creating open social spaces to maximize natural light. Externally, they added a new roof and fresh paint, embedding the home into its natural surroundings.

Advice for Homeowners

Reid encourages homeowners to apply his design principles to their own spaces. He suggests examining the balance of social and private areas to better reflect family lifestyles. “Interrogate the planning of your house,” he advises. “This will help you define the right balance of open and concealed spaces.”

He also emphasizes the importance of drawing inspiration from the local environment, whether urban, coastal, or rural, to influence material choices and enhance the home’s connection to its surroundings.

“Embrace the building shell you have,” Reid added, acknowledging that every home presents its challenges. “Identifying these challenges and re-imagining them can unlock incredible outcomes.”

As a final piece of advice, Reid advises homeowners to think long-term. “The place we call home will last longer than we do. We are guardians of these spaces for a short period,” he explains. While it is essential to make homes reflect personal style, he suggests considering future resale value as well. “Injecting personality through easily changeable elements like furniture and artwork can cater to both current and future owners.”

Reid’s journey from a cold, uninviting house to a warm, light-filled family home reflects his design philosophy—one that values individual stories and the transformative power of thoughtful design.