Central Otago is defined by its unique alpine environment, stretching valleys, and a deep appreciation for quality craftsmanship. The homes built here, from schist-clad new builds to historic stone cottages, require interior design that not only look beautiful but also connect authentically with the landscape.
What are the top ten interior design styles shaping Central Otago living?
1. Scandinavian
Light, bright, and beautifully functional, Scandinavian design feels perfectly at home in Central Otago’s alpine environment. Its core elements of soft neutrals, natural timber, and clean lines create calm, welcoming spaces that reflect the region’s beauty. The focus is on natural light, making it ideal for the often-sunny climate.
Embrace this aesthetic with natural wood pieces from our Furniture collection. Compliment the light palette with simple, high-quality linen bedding in muted tones from our selection of colour-ways.
2. Modern Farmhouse
A favourite across Central Otago’s lifestyle properties, the modern farmhouse style blends rustic warmth with a modern edge. Think exposed beams, linen textures, and handcrafted details paired with sleek, contemporary fixtures. It achieves a look that is relaxed yet refined, a perfect fit for a home that works hard and plays hard.
Achieve the textured, layered look with throws and cushions in natural fibres. Our Kitchen & Glassware collection offers handcrafted ceramics that add the essential, cosy charm of the farmhouse style.
3. Rustic
Raw materials, natural textures, and a sense of connection to the landscape define this look. Stone, reclaimed wood, and earthy tones bring the outdoors in, creating interiors that feel grounded, timeless, and local. This style particularly suits the region's historic stone and schist structures.
Source durable, character-filled accent pieces at The Workroom, such as antique wooden stools or unique clay pots, which deliver the raw texture and history of the rustic style.
4. Contemporary
Contemporary interiors in Central Otago often focus on open spaces, natural light, and sculptural simplicity. It is a style that celebrates both the architecture and the views - the interiors are uncluttered, thoughtful, and always evolving to reflect current design styles.
The Workroom offers refined, clean-lined décor and sculptural lighting that acts as art without clutter. This approach ensures the focus remains on the home’s architecture and the surrounding landscape.
5. Coastal
Though Central Otago is landlocked, it has its own take on coastal living - light, effortless, and fresh. This style is popular in lakeside or modern holiday homes, using soft whites, sandy neutrals, and organic materials to bring a relaxed feel reminiscent of a clean, alpine beach.
Opt for light-weight cotton and linen textures in pale, natural colours. The Workroom’s linen range features soft whites and natural tones, creating the light and airy foundation of this style.
6. Bohemian
Diverse, layered, and full of personality, Boho interiors reflect the creative and free-spirited community found in towns like Wānaka. A mix of vintage finds, rich textures, and global influences come together to create spaces that feel soulful and one-of-a-kind.
Introduce rich textures and global prints through cushions, rugs, and unique homewares. Our curated collections often feature handcrafted textiles and accessories from around the globe, perfect for layering.
7. Minimalism
‘Less is more’ is the guiding principle of the Minimalism style. Minimalist design suits many of the modern builds appearing around the region, where architecture and the dramatic landscape take centre stage. The palette stays simple, materials are honest, and the effect is effortlessly calm.
Our offering supports the principle of quality over quantity. Choose a single, beautifully made piece of furniture or a statement vase over multiple small items.
8. Mid-Century Modern
Timeless furniture, sculptural lighting, and a focus on craftsmanship - mid-century design fits beautifully with Central Otago’s appreciation for quality and simplicity. It is a style that feels both nostalgic and fresh, offering clean lines and functional beauty.
The Workroom stocks investment-worthy, well-crafted pieces, often featuring rich timbers and defined shapes, that align with the era’s focus on enduring design.
9. Japandi
A thoughtful fusion of Japanese serenity and Scandinavian warmth, Japandi has become increasingly popular in the region. Muted tones, handcrafted ceramics, and clean, simple forms create tranquil spaces that reflect Central Otago’s slow and intentional way of living. This blend focuses on natural materials and a serene, organised environment.
This style is exemplified by our selection of handcrafted ceramics, which combine functional artistry with quiet, natural beauty. Look for products that feature both a refined and organic feel.
10. Transitional
Blending traditional details with modern simplicity, transitional interiors work beautifully in heritage homes and new builds alike. It is a style all about balance - soft lines, neutral tones, and a layered, timeless look that avoids being overly formal or too starkly modern.
Our design services can help you strike this balance, selecting materials like luxurious fabrics and custom upholstery that bridges the gap between classic comfort and contemporary elegance, ensuring a timeless-styled home.
Whether your home looks out onto the Wānaka lakefront, The Remarkables mountain range in Queenstown, or a Cromwell vineyard, the key to a successful interior in Central Otago lies in authenticity. By understanding the local environment and choosing quality, well-designed pieces, you can create a home that is both a sanctuary and an honest reflection of its surroundings.
The Workroom offers a curated selection of furniture, homewares, and textiles, alongside expert design consultancy, to help you bring the perfect Central Otago interior style to life.
Book an interior design consultation to discuss which style is right for your Central Otago home today, we would love to hear from you.
