Interior Designer Matt Reid Shares Insights on All-White Interiors

Interior designer Matt Reid, the design lead for Warren and Mahoney in Wellington, has been making waves in the industry. Recently honored as the “Emerging Design Professional” at the 2025 Interior Awards, Reid reflects on his journey and expertise within the property market. He lives in Pinehaven, Upper Hutt, with his wife Natasha Kowalak-Reid and their two children, Briarly and Ollie.

Passion for Design and Unique Approaches

Reid has spent over 12 years in the architecture industry, contributing to numerous projects across New Zealand. He emphasizes that design is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each client and site presents unique challenges and opportunities. One of the most satisfying elements of his work is witnessing clients move into their new spaces, filled with pride and inspiration.

“Seeing the way we envisioned the space come to life, often in unexpected ways, is incredibly rewarding,” Reid says. He notes that as designers, they must be knowledgeable across various topics and industries throughout a project.

Path to Interior Design

Originally from Taranaki, Reid was encouraged by his father, a plumber, to pursue a different path. His early experiences on construction sites sparked a passion for architecture. He graduated with a Master of Interior Architecture from Victoria University of Wellington in 2013, armed with a deep curiosity and a set of drawing tools.

Reid’s design philosophy revolves around three core values: people, place, and possibilities. He believes that understanding the needs of his clients is essential for creating environments that resonate. Drawing inspiration from the immediate context of a project allows for a sense of place, while embracing challenges leads to innovative solutions.

Transforming His Own Home

Reid and his wife purchased their home in Pinehaven in 2018, a 96 square meter weatherboard house that required significant renovation. Initially described by their real estate agent as “an easy embrace,” the home was anything but. It was a cold, dated structure that they transformed into a light-filled oasis.

At the time of purchase, the house cost $435,000, which they felt was steep given its condition. However, they were determined to enter the property market. With no prior renovation experience, they gutted the interior, upgraded insulation, and completely redesigned the layout to better connect the living spaces with the outdoors.

This ambitious project continued at a slower pace after the arrival of their children, as family commitments took precedence. Reid expresses pride in their achievements, noting how their efforts have created a home filled with warmth and character.

Design Advice for Homeowners

Reid’s design approach to commercial projects can also apply to residential spaces. He advises homeowners to consider the balance between social and private areas in their homes, reflecting their unique lifestyles. Integrating qualities from the local environment into material choices enhances the sense of belonging.

“Identify the best views and frame them with furniture and design elements that celebrate those perspectives,” he suggests. Reid encourages homeowners to embrace the quirks of their buildings, finding beauty in imperfections, as he has done with the native timber flooring in his own home.

Living in a space for a while is crucial to understanding its dynamics. Observing how natural light interacts with the home throughout the year can help homeowners make informed decisions about design enhancements that improve their living experience.

Long-Term Considerations for Property Owners

Reid emphasizes the importance of viewing homes as long-term investments. “As homeowners, we are guardians of these spaces for only a short time,” he states. While personalizing a home is important, it should be balanced with the potential for future resale value.

Injecting personality through easily changeable elements like furniture and artwork allows for adaptability. Reid’s own journey in home renovation highlights the significance of embracing imperfections and creating spaces that reflect both history and contemporary living.

As Reid continues to influence the design landscape, his insights serve as a valuable resource for homeowners looking to enhance their living environments while considering practical and aesthetic aspects.