Deborah Still Interior Design

06/07/2026

The Empire Hotel is so much more than a beautiful boutique retreat. The thoughtfully restored space is because of the hundreds of hours of craftsmanship, care, and dedication from an extraordinary team of local tradespeople. To every tradie, supplier and supporter who has played a part, thank you 🙏 Your craftsmanship has created more than a destination, you’ve helped create an experience that every guest will enjoy for years to come. Because the most memorable spaces aren’t just designed, they are crafted with heart, by a community that cares. Designing spaces for artful living

03/07/2026

A couple of weeks ago, I had an exciting evening modelling for Riki Fellow & Fox Timaru
To promote his hair salon.
Riki, has a tricky customer on his hands when he works on me, super sensitive scalp and a cow lick that won’t be tamed 😹
But Riki always leaves me feeling more prepared to face the world and having Winnie the greyhound pats is a bonus too. If you want to be listened to and treated with kindness, look no further than Fellow & Fox.

12/04/2026

11/04/2026

Happy national pets day 🐾🐾😻🐝🦔 The creatures who’ve touched my heart have made life so much richer. To my animal friends, past and present, who have shared my life, thank you ♥️ (some are friends fur babies, but I’m so lucky to be allowed to share, some are memories, but their impact remains) Who are you lucky enough to share your fur baby love with?

31/03/2026

After 16 months of design, detail and dedication The Empire Hotel is open for bookings. this project has been a labour of love and every layer tells a story. To the Timaru community, thank you for your support, encouragement and genuine excitement along the way. To the incredible tradespeople, your skill, patience and pride in your work has made this vision possible. The countless hours of problem solving and craftsmanship have gone into every corner. I so happy to see the doors open and the spaces come alive.

31/03/2026

I’m so thrilled to announce that Empire Hotel is now ready for delighting and welcoming guests. Follow us for more updates in the coming days.

Experience Timaru’s most character-rich stay at The Empire Hotel, a landmark Edwardian building reimagined as six bespoke serviced apartments in Timaru Central.

From its 1906 origins to its meticulous restoration, the architectural character remains intact, now paired with expansive suites, considered interiors, and an apartment-style experience designed for modern travel.

Each self-contained apartment offers a wonderful experience for families, corporate stays, and weekend escapes, with every suite named in honour of Timaru’s early pioneers.

Step outside and explore Stafford Street, indulge in a morning coffee, or wander the shoreline of Caroline Bay, all moments from your door.

A boutique accommodation experience. 8 Church Street, Timaru.

Book Now
www.empirehotel.nz

29/03/2026

We’re just about finished the last apartment at The Empire Hotel. What a fun way to spend a dreary afternoon 👏🏻

22/03/2026

Designing an exterior colour schemes always begins long before the paint is applied. For me it starts with understanding the bones of a building, its era, proportions and the way it “talks” to its surroundings. Every colour scheme I create is tailored, thoughtful and designed to last the test of time.

10/03/2026

My very talented friend Vivienne Laursen Photography & Design has made just a great job of photographing The Empire Hotel. She has captured the colours and all the small details I’ve spent so much time thinking about.

10/03/2026

Thank you to everyone who came out and supported our fundraiser on Sunday.
Well over 400 people attended the viewing of The Empire Hotel, it was so special to see you all and well done to all the volunteers who made this event happen 🙏♥️

A huge thank you to Deborah Still Interior Design for opening the doors to the Empire Hotel and to everyone who popped in for a peek of the apartments this past Sunday. It was a fantastic event supporting Hospice South Canterbury. We’re so grateful for the amazing community spirit and look forward to the hotel's opening! 💛
deborah