About Us
Timeless Design, Tailored to You
At Nicola Manning Design we believe your home should be as individual as you are – a place of beauty, comfort and connection. With over 23 years of experience and international recognition, we specialise in full-service luxury residential interiors.
From new builds and large-scale renovations to city apartments and coastal retreats, every project is approached with creativity, precision and care. Our mission is simple: to make the design journey enjoyable, seamless and stress-free, while delivering results that exceed expectations.
What Sets Us Apart
Choosing the right designer is about more than taste – it’s about trust, clarity and the confidence that your project is in expert hands. At NM Design our clients come to us not just for beautiful interiors, but for the way we make the entire design journey seamless and enjoyable.
With over 23 years of award-winning experience, Nicola brings both authority and perspective to every project. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all “signature look.” Instead, we take the time to understand how you live, what inspires you and what you need from your home – creating spaces that are uniquely yours.
Our role doesn’t end with drawings. We provide a complete, turnkey service, managing every detail from initial concepts through to final styling. By working with New Zealand’s most skilled builders, craftsmen and suppliers, we ensure that every element of your home reflects uncompromising quality.
We also understand that a renovation or new build can feel overwhelming, which is why we created our “No Surprises” Promise – a structured design programme, transparent budgeting, and clear timelines. Clients consistently tell us this is one of the most valuable aspects of our service, giving them peace of mind as their project unfolds.
Finally, our leadership within the design industry – from Nicola’s role as an NKBA Board member to her judging of national and international awards -means our clients benefit from a practice that is connected, forward-thinking and committed to raising the standard of design in New Zealand.
Explore Our Work
Every home we design is as individual as the people who live in it. Our portfolio showcases a curated selection of projects – from contemporary new builds to heritage renovations and coastal retreats – each tailored with care, creativity and timeless detail. Discover how we’ve transformed homes across Auckland and beyond.
FAQ’s
Meet the Team
At NM Design every project is a true collaboration. Nicola leads with creative vision and over two decades of award-winning experience, while Amy contributes 20 years of design expertise and meticulous attention to detail. Together they ensure clients receive not only timeless, bespoke interiors but also a smooth and stress-free design journey.
Nicola Manning
Principal Designer and Director
With more than 23 years in the industry, Nicola is the founder and driving force behind NM Design. She is known for creating timeless, bespoke homes that are as functional as they are beautiful. Nicola’s work has been recognised with multiple national and international awards and her leadership in the industry includes serving on the Executive Board of the NKBA (New Zealand’s National Kitchen and Bathroom Association) and judging prestigious design programmes.
Her design philosophy is centred on truly understanding her clients – their lifestyle, aspirations and individuality, translating these into interiors that reflect who they are. Clients value her ability to balance creativity with structure, ensuring their project is not only inspiring but also well-managed, transparent and enjoyable from start to finish.
Amy Pearson
Senior Designer
Amy is an accomplished interior designer with 20 years of experience in residential projects. As Senior Designer at NM Design she plays a key role in supporting Nicola across all stages of the design process, adding depth, detail and technical expertise. Her strengths in design development, documentation and project coordination ensure every project is delivered with precision and care.
Clients value Amy’s approachable style, calm presence and meticulous eye for detail. Working closely with Nicola she helps create a cohesive, supportive experience that makes the design journey seamless, enjoyable and rewarding.
Recognised for Excellence
Design Awards & Recognition
Our work has been recognised with awards that celebrate design excellence and attention to detail. From winning NZ House & Garden’s Interior of the Year to receiving NKBA Excellence in Design Awards and being named a finalist in the prestigious SBID Awards in London, these honours reflect the same commitment to quality and creativity that we bring to every client project.
It has also been a privilege to serve as a judge for leading design award programmes – an acknowledgement of the expertise and discernment we apply not only to recognising excellence in the industry, but also to crafting homes of the highest standard for our clients.
Judging & Industry Leadership
It is an honour to have been invited to judge leading design awards – a recognition of the expertise and discernment we bring to every client project.
Nicola is honoured to serve on the Executive Board of the National Kitchen & Bathroom Association (NKBA), the national association representing New Zealand’s kitchen and bathroom industry. This role reflects not only her expertise and standing within the profession, but also her commitment to advancing design standards. For our clients it’s reassurance that every project is guided by leadership, insight and best practice at the highest level of the industry.
Nicola is a Professional Member of the Designers Institute of New Zealand (DINZ), the national organisation that represents and supports excellence across all design disciplines. Membership is awarded to designers who demonstrate proven expertise, professionalism and a commitment to advancing the industry.
MEMBERSHIPS:
- Member of the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bathroom Association of New Zealand)
- Member of the NKBA Executive Board, Vice President
- Elite Designer – Designers of NKBA
- Professional Member of the Designers Institute of New Zealand (PDINZ)
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Associate Diploma of Interior Design and Decoration – Rhodec International
- NKBA Kitchen Specialist Course
- Bachelor of Commerce and Administration (Victoria University)
Our Process
At NM Design, we believe great design should feel inspiring, enjoyable and stress-free. As an award-winning interior design studio in Auckland, we specialise in luxury residential interiors – guiding clients through a proven process that ensures clarity and confidence at every stage. From concept to completion, our full-service approach means you can enjoy the journey as much as the finished home.
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