Behind the styling,
TDC x Baya
Exploring the creative process.
What was your initial vision for styling this season’s collection?
I wanted to create spaces that felt calm and refined - pared back, yet still warm and layered.
The outdoor shoot at Haumoana in Hawke’s Bay offered incredible scope. The house opens on all sides to embrace the surrounding landscape, with each area framed by stunning views and richly textured gardens.
With such a natural dialogue between indoors and out, it was about making the outdoor settings feel connected to the interior scheme, while also creating distinct moments - morning coffee in one corner, a long lunch with friends in another.
Layering in rugs, throws, and cushions from the collection brought warmth, tactility, and depth, making each space feel comfortable and inviting.
The textures and patterns from the new collection were the focus, supported by complementary materials and tones. It’s always about finding that balance - creating harmony but also visual interest.
Sometimes it’s a statement piece of furniture or artwork; other times it’s an unexpected pairing that gives people new ideas for how the pieces could come together in their own space.
How did colour play a role in your styling decisions?
Colour is always a key starting point - it sets the mood and helps shape the direction of a space. I love seeing the new samples as they arrive; handling the materials gives me a real sense of them before I visit showrooms to explore how they interact with the furniture and other elements I’m sourcing for the shoot.
The deep green Fat Tulip sofa by Adam Goodrum for Nau comes to mind here - it worked beautifully with so many of the new collection colours, from complimentary shades of green to earthy clay and dark brown, as well as the warm mahogany and rosewood tones.
I also leaned into metal finishes, bringing in aluminium and polished steel pieces across furniture, lighting and smaller décor elements. These cooler silver accents contrasted beautifully with Baya’s warm, nature-inspired palette of ecru, chestnut, slate, and sage, adding a subtle, refined edge.
What are some of your go-to styling details that bring a space to life?
Books are always a go-to for me - they instantly add a personal layer, bringing warmth and character to a space. I love experimenting with how they’re arranged on a coffee table, stacking some to build height or pairing them with sculptural ceramics, candles, or small vases for a relaxed, layered look.
Seasonal flowers are another staple. I like choosing a mix of soft, neutral tones alongside a few bolder varieties - leaning into effortless arrangements with a few wayward, sculptural stems that subtly lift a space without overwhelming it.
How did the rugs inform the way you styled the rest of the setting?
Rugs are always a foundational element they anchor the space and provide a framework, guiding the colour palette, mood, and overall feel.
I pay close attention to details like colour, texture, size, shape, and any distinctive design features. Does the rug have tassels? A unique weave? Both the Clifton and Tanami rugs offer incredible texture, which naturally influenced my choices. Do I go tonal with the sofa, or introduce contrast? From there, I can build the story - layering in furniture, lighting, and finishing touches that work together to bring the space to life.
The Marlow rug in wine immediately comes to mind - a deep burgundy with a soft pink stripe. I wanted to echo those soft pink tones, so I chose the Gubi Wonder sofa by Space Copenhagen in a pale velvet neutral. The pink of the Hay Bowler table by Shane Schneck added a playful note, while Michelle Wilkin’s Tickled Pink painting was the perfect finishing touch. The Flos Taccia Lamp - an iconic design piece - brought a sculptural, statement element to this more conceptual setting.
How does Baya’s design language align with your own?
We’re aligned in our appreciation for nature, craftsmanship, and texture. Baya’s palette leans into timeless neutrals, which is something I always gravitate towards. Their approach isn’t about chasing trends but creating pieces with longevity -something I really value.
Each collection builds thoughtfully on the last, whether it’s through a new colourway, a subtle pattern, or fresh design details like the square Edward cushions or the Elliot lumbar with its striped border - both favourites of mine from this collection. There’s a quiet confidence in the way they evolve, always with a focus on enduring design.
TDC - Look 1
“Refined yet layered, this serene space is anchored by the Clifton rug in Ivory. Clean lines are offset by gentle curves, while cool metal accents play against warm Baya tones of pecan and cinnamon, mirrored in the sofa’s timber trim. Cause and Effect by Cindy Leong adds a striking focal point with its repetition and texture.”
Tubo Chair - By Ellison Studios. Available at Slow Store.
TS Coffee Table - By Gubi. Available at Cult Design.
Cause And Effect - By Cindy Leong.
Studio Adjustable Floor Lamp - By Visual Comfort. Available at ECC.
TDC - Look 2
"The Tanami floor rug in Donkey provides a rich foundation, anchoring the space with depth and texture. Complemented by the warmth of timber furniture, the handcrafted ceramic tableware and still life artwork echo the rug's lighter weave and tassel detail - a quiet connection that ties the setting together."
Chronicle Dining Table - By Tim Webber.
Torii Chair - By Benson. Available at Tim Webber.
Hydrangea - By Neil Driver. Available at Parnell Gallery.
Pisu Tableware Collection – By Louise Roe. Available at Slow Store.
TDC - Look 3
"In harmony with the home's architecture and natural surrounds, this outdoor setting is grounded by dark, earthy tones - the Lonsdale rug in olive, and ebony upholstered furniture. Cushions in tobacco and almond echo the timber detailing, while the striped handwoven cushions add a subtle graphic edge."
Heaphy Outdoor Sofa & Chair in Ebony - Available at Grace + Wild.