Design on James

25/02/2026

25/02/2026

There’s something quietly transformative about art - it doesn’t just fill a wall, it anchors a room, giving it depth, story, and soul. Over the years we’ve had the joy of supporting some incredible New Zealand artists, introducing their work into our clients’ homes. Often, it’s the final touch that makes everything feel truly alive.

“When you buy something from an Artist, you’re buying more than an object. You are buying hundreds of hours of mistakes and experimentation. You’re buying years of frustration and moments of pure joy. You’re not buying just one thing, you are buying a piece of a heart, a piece of a soul. A small piece of someone else’s life.” ♥️

🖼️ Take a journey with us through the archives and see the amazing artists we’ve supported along the way - their work, their stories, their magic.

14/11/2024

It seems strange at this time of the year not to be a part of the Garden and Art Festival here in Tauranga, but we are so looking forward to spending the next few days wandering around the other gardens involved and being inspired.

Any favourites that you have been to already??? 🌺🌳

14/11/2024

Country Home Makeover

“l don't know how l could describe the joy l have received from working with you Lynette.

The way you guided me through my mad ideas of having everything with bling and keeping my essence and being brave enough to spend money on quality pieces that l love , considering my husbands comfort and still managing to uplift a beautiful home that had been a bit battered by a busy family and some naughty pets”

14/11/2024

If you are building or renovating and need some help with curtains we have an extensive range of fabric samples that you can come in and have a look at or I can bring to you to make the selection process run smoothly.

We have a team of local curtain makers and installers to help make the process seamless.

14/11/2024

Character Home - Major Renovation

An existing character home, which was initially moved to site has had a major renovation with the input of many skilled tradespeople.

This home shows the beauty of patina and age, with the timber on the floors and some walls retained, contrasting beautifully with wide architraves and shutters.

A character kitchen and scullery complete with butlers sink, Smeg black oven, shaker style cabinetry and charcoal and white character tiles on the floor, is the central hub of the home.

More photos of this project over on our website.

www.designonjames.co.nz

14/11/2024

Beachfront Retreat 🏝💙🌊

“We had the pleasure of working with Lynette and Kane Lochhead on the design of our beach house in Bowentown, Waihi.

Kane, Lynette’s son, designed the house and his creativity and attention to detail made him a true asset to the whole project, start to finish. He achieved a wonderful balance of style and comfort to the house. From the outset Kane understood our unique vision to create a cozy, intimate setting nestled amongst the sand dunes and native foliage, with the flexibility to open up when extended family and friends came to stay.

Lynette embraced the whole beach house concept, designing an interior that feels earthy, organic, welcoming and warm. Lynette’s keen eye for colour and texture makes it feel like a true sanctuary.

Both Kane and Lynette have achieved the perfect synergy between the design and the interior.
Rob and I love what they have achieved.
Thank you to you both”.

Lisa and Rob Roos

14/11/2024

Last weekend I enjoyed a girls weekend away with my two beautiful daughters up in Auckland. 🏙 ❤️
Julia had this beautiful single capture photograph called ‘Let the Light in’ in the group exhibition at Art by the Sea in Takapuna. 🌊 🌊 🌊
We went along to the opening night, sipped on champagne, had a lot of laughs and had the most delicious meal at First Mate, Last Laugh down in the Westhaven marina. 🥂✨
It is amazing how much you can be inspired by a little break away. ✨❤️

05/06/2024

Winter is a great time to purchase art as we recluse inside more and more with the shorter days. It is always nice to have your walls full of art that speaks to you and touches your soul in some way.

We absolutely love this incredible piece by 💜
We have a few beautiful pieces of hers currently in the showroom. Please get in touch if you would like to come have a look.

05/06/2024

Showroom details 🖤

05/06/2024

We love the Autumn tones at the moment and can’t get enough of this gorgeous toffee golden chair 🍂