Crafting homes with intention and character

Kurio is a Wellington-based interior design studio founded by Katie Peck and Nikki Burnet, whose shared vision brings together decades of international and local experience across New Zealand, Australia, the UK, and Europe.

With a reputation for delivering thoughtful, well-crafted interiors, Kurio’s work sits at the intersection of creativity and functionality. Their design philosophy is grounded in three key principles: well-executed, intentional, and unexpected. “We want our spaces to feel deliberate, not over-designed,” Nikki says. “Every decision should serve a purpose, whether that’s practical, emotional or aesthetic.”

Kurio’s residential work reflects a deep commitment to collaboration, offering a comprehensive, full service approach to clients nationwide. “We have projects from Auckland down to Wanaka and everywhere in between,” Nikki says.

This collaborative approach encompasses guiding a project from its early concept to final styling, encompassing everything from space planning and material specification to custom joinery, furnishings, and bespoke details. “It’s about taking the pressure off clients,” Nikki explains. “We handle the big picture, but also the tiniest details that make a space sing.”

Their strength lies in creating layered, cohesive interiors that feel both beautiful and liveable, whether for a new build or a large-scale renovation. Central to their process is a belief that good design begins with listening. “We always start by understanding how people live,” Nikki says. “It’s their story, not ours, that should come through in the design.”

Materials and textures are handled with a refined and intuitive touch. Natural timbers, stones, and metals are layered with precision, often accented by custom-made elements that bring warmth and character. While Kurio’s palettes often lean toward timeless neutrals, they aren’t afraid to take risks. “We love working with unexpected colour—rich teals, mustard tones, deep greens,” Nikki says. “Used thoughtfully, those moments can add a layer of surprise that still feels cohesive.”

Kurio also offers bespoke furniture design and custom joinery, frequently collaborating with local makers to realise site-specific solutions. “There’s something really special about working with craftspeople,” Nikki adds. “It means we can create pieces that fit perfectly, both in terms of scale and story.”

Final styling, including art, accessories, and soft furnishings, is never an afterthought. It’s treated as an essential final layer that brings the entire vision together. “Styling finishes the sentence,” Nikki says. “It’s where personality, memory, and emotion live.”

Kurio’s residential interiors stand out for their quiet confidence and clear sense of identity, homes that are not only refined and timeless, but also deeply connected to the people who inhabit them. “At the end of the day we want to design spaces that feel like home—not like a showroom, but a place that reflects who you are and how you live.”

Contact details

Kurio Design
022 083 4948
nikki@kurio.co.nz
www.kurio.co.nz