philosophy

I believe that regardless of constraints any space can be made to sing. It’s a philosophy which adopts an attitude of ingenuity, imagination and inventiveness to cultivate tailored spaces which reflect their inhabitants and balance form and function beautifully.

Each project is approached with an understanding, warmth and enthusiasm which prioritises client satisfaction and allows for a professional yet relaxed collaborative experience. My down-to-earth nature, attention to detail and desire to excel combine to ensure a positive process and delightful result.

Whatever the project my aim is always to understand, then exceed, expectations.

service menu

All services are tailored to suit the specific project scope and individual client preferences. They may be fully-inclusive, or more targeted as applicable. Whether you’re interested in a comprehensive turn-key experience, or simply some guidance, I will customise a service just for you.

Interior Decoration

A complete in-home service to bring your dream space to life! Whether you’re starting from scratch, seeking a moderate update or looking at a full overhaul, this service can be tailored to suit your scope, needs and budget. Covering all facets of design and decoration as applicable, the aim is to create a freshly finished space which surpasses your aspirations.

SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING
  • Discovery consultation (over-the-phone, e-meeting or in-home) to determine project viability
  • Consolidating correspondence (via email), including a questionnaire, to fully understand the project scope and brief
  • Fee proposal presented for acceptance, along with preliminary concept board representing the design vision
  • Additional correspondence to finesse project details, as needed
  • Document delivery, including mood boards, virtual renderings, floor plans, elevations, product selections, etc. (as applicable), with revision options (view my Documentation & Concepts page for examples)
  • Arrangement and coordination of any improvement/renovation works, as needed
  • Product specification & procurement
  • Full install to completion with final reveal

Available for one or two rooms, multiple spaces or your entire house. For clients based in and around Melbourne.
$POA

Process, inclusions and pricing are subject to variation based on client tailoring.

Home Styling

Are you struggling to make the most of your home because you lack the confidence and clarity to finesse the important final layer. Styling can have an enormous impact on the way an interior feels and looks. If you’re happy with the bones of your space and already have most (or all) of your furniture, then take advantage of my styling expertise to elevate your home. Depending on your needs, this service can center around working with what you already have, or include the procurement or specification of new products, with a focus on elements such as rugs, wall art, general decor, lamps and soft furnishings, plus spatial planning.

SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING
  • Discovery consultation (over-the-phone, e-meeting or in-home) to determine project viability
  • Consolidating correspondence (via email), including a questionnaire, to fully understand the project scope
  • Fee proposal presented for acceptance
  • Additional correspondence to finesse project details, as needed
  • Document delivery (if required), which may include a style concept board, layout plan, shopping list, etc. (as applicable), with revision options
  • Product specification or procurement (as applicable)
  • Styling install to completion with final reveal

Available for one or two rooms, multiple spaces or your entire house. For clients based in and around Melbourne.
$POA

Process, inclusions and pricing are subject to variation based on client tailoring.

Virtual Concepts (E-Design)

Virtual concepts provide the opportunity for anyone (world wide!) to work with a professional interior designer in order to realise their home goals. At the core of my e-design service is a custom 3D digital model of your actual space, along with beautifully presented documentation. The 3D model offers the benefit of easily experimenting with and “seeing” the design, along with the flexibility of several different display formats. Whether you already have a good idea of what you want, or are in need of lots of design help, virtual concepts offer the perfect solution. View my Documentation & Concepts page for examples.

SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING

    There are two options:

    MINI PACKAGE
    Perfect for someone on a budget seeking some design guidance, accurate visuals and product specification to help bring their dream space to life!

    • Discovery consultation (over-the-phone, e-meeting/email or in-home – location dependent) to determine project viability
    • Consolidating correspondence (via email), including a questionnaire, to fully understand the project scope and brief
    • Fee proposal presented for acceptance
    • Additional correspondence to finesse project details, as needed
    • Document delivery; project overview, one 2D floorplan, one 3D floorplan, up to five virtual renderings, a 360° panorama and a shopping list (Australian residents only), with one round of revisions
    • Virtual walk-through meeting for an immersive tour of the concept and the opportunity to live edit the design (optional extra)

    Available for one or two rooms, multiple spaces or your entire house. Available to clients internationally.
    From $350 per room

    FULL PACKAGE
    Perfect for someone seeking a thorough and detailed concept plan which allows them to easily understand and implement the design!

    • Discovery consultation (over-the-phone, e-meeting/email or in-home – location dependent) to determine project viability
    • Consolidating correspondence (via email), including a questionnaire, to fully understand the project scope and brief
    • Fee proposal presented for acceptance
    • Additional correspondence to finesse project details, as needed
    • Document delivery; a thorough multi-page presentation comprising detailed notes, representational imagery, renderings, floor plans, elevations, product selections, colour schemes, shopping lists, etc. (as applicable), with revision options
    • Virtual walk-through meeting for an immersive tour of the concept and the opportunity to live edit the design (optional extra)

    Available for one or two rooms, multiple spaces or your entire house. Available to clients internationally.
    From $500 per room

    Process, inclusions and pricing are subject to variation based on client tailoring.

    BUILD/RENOVATION Selections

    Are you overwhelmed by all the available material, fitting and fixture options for your new build or renovation? Let me take the stress and uncertainty out of the process by working with you to make the perfect selections. Includes materials such as flooring, paint colours, hardware, lighting, tiles, cabinetry colours and profiles, benchtops, tapware, fabrics, and so on. 

    SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING
    • Discovery consultation (over-the-phone, e-meeting/email or in-home) to determine project viability
    • Consolidating correspondence (via email), including a questionnaire, to fully understand the project scope and brief
    • Fee proposal presented for acceptance
    • Additional correspondence to finesse project details, as needed
    • Document delivery, including a detailed selections list inclusive of all relevant products, with revision options
    • Mood boards and/or virtual renderings depicting the selections (optional extra)

    Available for one or two rooms, multiple spaces or your entire house. Available to clients nationally.
    From $150 per room

    Process, inclusions and pricing are subject to variation based on client tailoring.

    AirBNB/Holiday Rental Interiors

    With the growth in popularity of AirBNB accommodation, and other short-term holiday rentals, it’s more important than ever that your property stands out. A thoughtfully appointed and beautifully presented holiday rental is proven to yield higher returns and paramount occupancy. I’m dedicated to elevating your property above the competition by employing a tailored and thorough approach which sets it apart.

    SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING
    • Discovery consultation (over-the-phone, e-meeting or in-home) to determine project viability
    • Consolidating correspondence (via email), including a questionnaire, to fully understand the project scope and brief
    • Fee proposal presented for acceptance, along with preliminary concept board representing the design vision
    • Additional correspondence to finesse project details, as needed
    • Document delivery, including mood boards, virtual renderings, floor plans, elevations, product selections, etc. (as applicable), with revision options (view my Documentation & Concepts page for examples)
    • Arrangement and coordination of any improvement/renovation works, as needed
    • Product specification & procurement
    • Full install to completion with final reveal
    • Professional custom ‘Welcome’ book (optional extra)
    • Professional photography with commercial license to utilise images for promotional purposes (optional extra)

    Available for one or two rooms, multiple spaces or the entire AirBNB property. For clients based in and around Melbourne.
    $POA

    Process, inclusions and pricing are subject to variation based on client tailoring.

    Property STAGING/Flipping for Sale

    Differing from the mere ‘surface’ method of most house stagers, I employ a holistic approach which aims to maximise sale by improving the cosmetic appeal of a property overall. With a resourceful attitude, budget-friendly focus and keen eye on market value, the goal is to create a clean, fresh and updated ‘move-in-ready’ feel that sets your property apart and appeals to buyers – without over-capitalising. Depending on the individual property, this may mean considering adapting elements such as flooring, paint, lighting, fixtures and fittings, window dressings, cabinetry, and so on. I will also beautifully dress your property, usually using a mix of your existing pieces and new items, so it’s stylishly presented for the best chance of a quick and profitable sale. 

    SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING

    Subject to individual project scope. Please contact me to enquire.

    For clients based in and around Nillumbik (outer north-east Melbourne).
    $POA

    Kitchens & Bathrooms

    Among the most pivotal and costly of rooms, it’s important that you get your kitchen or bathroom right. Whether you’re building or renovating, take advantage of my planning experience and design tools to perfect your concept before committing. Ideal for feeling assured of your choices, or for experimenting with different options for configurations, styles and materials until you’re completely satisfied. This service extends to other spaces such as laundries, mudrooms and butler’s pantries along with built-in-cabinetry design. 

    SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING
    • Discovery consultation (over-the-phone, e-meeting/email or in-home – location dependent) to determine project viability
    • Consolidating correspondence (via email), including a questionnaire, to fully understand the project scope and brief
    • Fee proposal presented for acceptance
    • Additional correspondence to finesse project details, as needed
    • 3D model generation followed by virtual walk-through meeting for an immersive tour of the concept and the opportunity to live edit the design
    • Document delivery; a thorough multi-page presentation comprising detailed notes, representational imagery, renderings, floor plans, elevations, product selections, colour schemes, shopping lists, etc. (as applicable), with revision options (view my Documentation & Concepts page for examples)
    • Coordination of any improvement/renovation works as needed, product specification & procurement, full install to completion with final reveal (optional extras for local clients)

    Available to clients internationally.
    From $350 per room

    Process, inclusions and pricing are subject to variation based on client tailoring.

    Plan Reviews & Revisions

    Do you already have preliminary plans in place (produced by either yourself or a professional) though are unsure about certain aspects or if the design truly capitalises on your options? Whether you’re building new, extending or renovating, or doing a minor remodel, let me take a look and offer fresh insights and ideas, to make the most of your home.

    SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING
    • Correspondence via email to determine the project scope and obtain information as needed
    • Fee proposal presented for acceptance
    • A thorough plan review taking into account your personal preferences along with design optimisation potential
    • Document delivery, including floor plan variations and detailed design notes, with revision options
    • Further design development to explore additional concepts (optional extra)

    Available to clients internationally.
    From $120

    Process, inclusions and pricing are subject to variation based on client tailoring.

    Designer on Demand

    This is a punchy, effective and instantly impactful service aimed at tackling – and alleviating – your design dilemmas or uncertainties on the spot! Engage me via video call/standard call or email (national/international clients) or in person (Melbourne-based clients) for immediate assistance with any design and decoration help you’re after

    SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING

    There are two options:

    TIME-BLOCK PACKAGE
    A video call/standard call (national/international clients) or in-home consult (Melbourne based clients) to assist in real-time with any design and decoration help you’re after. From styling, spatial planning, colour and material selections, furniture and decor suggestions, design ideas, and so much more!

    • Correspondence via email to determine the project scope and assess viability
    • E-meeting or phone call (national/international clients) or an in-home visit (Melbourne based clients) to deliver real-time personalised advice and ‘hands-on’ assistance until you’re satisfied with the outcome
    • Option to receive a clear and beautifully presented Design Concept document detailing our discussions and decisions
    • Option to extend the scope if desired (i.e. product specification or procurement, build or renovation selections, virtual concepts, and so on)

    Available to clients internationally (video call) or those local to Melbourne and surrounds (in-home).
    $120 per hour

    ON-CALL PACKAGE
    One month of unlimited (within reason) direct access to me to assist with any design and decoration help you’re after. Perfect for those in the midst of building or renovating, or in a design or decoration phase, when decision-making can feel overwhelming. Let me be your professional guide and take the stress out of the process.

    • Correspondence via email to determine the project scope and assess viability
    • 30 days of open-line communication with me via email (I strive to address all emails promptly – generally within one hour – however there is a maximum 12 hour response time to account for business hour/time zone discrepancies)
    • Option to detail our discussions and decisions in a clear and beautifully presented Design Concept document
    • Option to extend the scope if desired (i.e. product specification or procurement, build or renovation selections, virtual concepts, and so on)

    Available to clients internationally.
    $550 for 30 days

    Process, inclusions and pricing are subject to variation based on client tailoring.

    Trust Fall Design

    If you’re after an amazing, comprehensive and seamless experience (complete with a significant discount) then this could be the perfect service for you! Let me take the work, time and indecision out of your interior ambitions by realising them on your behalf. Based on your communicated brief and an agreed-upon concept plan, you will grant me a level of creative freedom to implement the approved design. By placing your trust in me you’re rewarded with a completely stress-free transformation and fun “surprise reveal” which is sure to surpass your expectations, along with a heavily discounted service fee (this discount is made possible due to the reduction in documentation and correspondence hours).

    SEE PROCESS, INCLUSIONS & PRICING
    • Discovery consultation (over-the-phone, e-meeting or in-home) to determine project viability
    • Consolidating correspondence (via email), including a questionnaire, to fully understand the project scope and brief
    • Fee proposal presented for acceptance
    • Additional correspondence to finesse project details, as needed
    • Document delivery, including a concept board representing the design vision, presented for approval prior to the commencement of any works
    • Concept reviews (optional extra)
    • Arrangement and coordination of any improvement/renovation works, as needed
    • Product specification & procurement
    • Full install to completion with final reveal

    Available for one or two rooms, multiple spaces or your entire house. For clients based in and around Melbourne.
    $POA

    Process, inclusions and pricing are subject to variation based on client tailoring.

    SET-PRICE PACKAGES

    For clients based in and around Melbourne.

    Curated in-home makeovers where all design fees and item costs are clearly outlined in one neat up-front bundle.
    No surprise add-ons, hidden extras or second guessing, plus access to exclusive industry discounts.
    All you need to do is choose your package options then watch your dream space come to beautiful life!

    REFRESH

    $1,500 per room

    Click to learn more and book.

    REvive

     $2,500 per room

    Click to learn more and book.

    REnew

     $4,000 per room

    Click to learn more and book.

    portfolio

    The Canopy

    This ‘from scratch’ bathroom was part of an upper level extension. The brief was for something timeless with interest, using a considered high-low mix to keep costs reasonable.

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    MANNISH

    A complete remodel of this 50 year old bathroom retains the original footprint but delivers a much more spacious, functional, and ultimately beautiful, rendition.

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    Plover Way

    Neglected, dated and cluttered, this standard suburban property was in need of a complete cosmetic refresh to enhance its sale potential.

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    Boyish Charm

    This bachelor pad bedroom was crying out for help! Drab, dark and dated, it was stripped back to a blank canvas to freshly build upon with amazing results.

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    Happy Wanderer

    Previously brown-on-brown-on-brown, a fresh white and olive colour scheme, coupled with other inventive design improvements, has given this old pre-loved expanding caravan a charming new glow.

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    DIY Budget-Friendly Bathroom Makeover

    Blue Willow

    A clever cosmetic refresh took this outdated bathroom from sad to stylish.

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    DIY Budget-Friendly Bathroom Makeover

    FLOWERING FIG (E-DESIGN | FULL PACKAGE)

    Stylish yet fun, this master bedroom bridges traditional and contemporary for a fresh eclectic vibe. This portfolio item provides an insightful look into the breadth and depth of what is offered as part of my e-Design service.

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    Fairdell

    A budget focused house staging project intended to maximise presentation for sale.

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    Yarra House

    A cute mudbrick AirBNB bungalow was given a stylish and meaningful eclectic makeover.

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    DIY Budget-Friendly Bathroom Makeover

    Boho Dreaming

    A fresh and airy stylish new scheme ensured this makeover delivered the boho bedroom of this tween girl’s dreams!

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    Boy's Rustic Vintage Bedroom Makeover

    Tiny But Mighty

    These small kids bedrooms are packed with vintage charm. Thoughtfully configured to maximise space and storage they’re an ideal blend of pretty and practical, designed to grow with their little occupants throughout the years.

    SEE MORE

    Gallery

    A general collection featuring some of my projects spanning design, decoration, styling, visual merchandising and DIY.

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    Design Documentation & Virtual Concepts

    Examples of my design documentation, demonstrating the general characteristics and inclusions, along with showcasing my virtual concept and 3D modelling capabilities.

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    THE FARMHOUSE (E-DESIGN | MINI PACKAGE)

    This welcoming living room does double duty as a warm gathering space and interchangeable art gallery (the home owner is a photographer who likes to display her work). This portfolio item provides an insightful look into the breadth and depth of what is offered as part of my e-Design service.

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    MANNISH (DOCUMENTATION)

    Offering insight into the documentation component provided as part of a design service.

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    style

    “Crafting considered interiors with soul”

    With a focus on timeless appeal, my personal style melds new and old for a modern yet collected feel which embodies refined comfort. My spaces are curated, robust and expressive, displaying layered interest and organic warmth. Including unique elements and those with personal sentiment is an important aspect of my approach and works to imbue honesty, connection and individuality into my designs.

    STYLE LOOK BOOK

    For an idea of the aesthetic I adore, please feel free to view my inspiration Style Look Book.
    If you resonate with aspects of the content, then we’re a perfect fit!

    testimonials

    I’ve worked with a broad range of clients with varying briefs and budgets, both locally and internationally.

    My aim is always to understand, then exceed, expectations.

    “What an absolute joy it was to work with Kristine – her ideas for our house were amazing so we gave her free reign. The result was beyond perfect and the comments from the potential buyers and Real Estate personnel were all incredibly complimentary. The house sold quickly for a really great price. A huge “thank you” Kristine, you were “simply the best”.

    Raelene, WARRANDYTE

    "I have used Kristine's expertise a couple of times now. The first was for a bathroom design. I had a few ideas but I didn't know how they would work and I wanted to be confident. Kristine showed me several options and then tweaked the final design. I was able to give this to the builder who worked from the concept images. I am extremely happy with the outcome. The second was for living room styling. I feel so out of my depth with styling and she was super friendly and kind. I would definitely use Kristine's services in the future."

    Laura, CARLTON

    “I have always loved following Kristine and The Painted Hive. She helped me style our lounge and also drew up visual plans for our new kitchen, laundry and scullery. She was very easy to deal with, had brilliant practical ideas and was happy to work within our budget. I love her visual plans as I can picture exactly what her ideas looked like straight away. Nothing was a problem to change and I liked how she gave me ideas of what would work best. She was quick at responding to my emails and if she needed more details an e-meeting worked well too. Would highly recommend dealing with Kristine”.

    Anna, NEW ZEALAND

    “I can’t thank Kristine enough for helping with our home. I felt completely lost and overwhelmed and she came in and made it all happen beautifully. She truly listened and delivered on what we needed and wanted”.

    Ronnie, ELTHAM

    “Kristine was brilliant to work with. She really listened to my needs and wants and went above and beyond to make my room amazing. I will never forget the “reveal” day and all the happy tears I cried”.

    Melinda, DONCASTER

    “I've had the pleasure of working with Kristine on all our interior design projects. Kristine has the skill and understanding to capture all my ideas. Her 3D models and virtual renders allow us to visually see how the final project will look, giving us the opportunity to make changes before starting costly renovations. I highly recommend Kristine to anyone".

    Jennifer, BEACONSFIELD

    "Kristine delivered a beautiful e-design that really reflected my taste. I'm so excited to begin implementing it."

    Mary, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

    press

    My work has been featured in numerous local and international publications, both in print and digitally.

    I’ve also been recruited by many notable brands (including Dulux, Freedom, Bunnings, Early Settler, Feast Watson, Annie Sloan, United Interiors, and many more) to act as an ambassador, content creator and stylist.

    For a complete list of my media features, please visit my Buzz page.

    AS SEEN IN

    contact

    If you’re interested in working with me, please don’t hesitate to reach out for further information or to arrange a free discovery call.

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