When it comes to creating spaces that feel like home, few understand the power of colour and texture better than Carina Ferguson.
The founder of No Buttercups, an interior design studio based in Pukekohe, brings over a decade of textile and design experience to her work.
We sat down with her to discuss everything from 90s bedroom makeovers to embracing dark colours in small spaces.
A JOURNEY IN COLOUR
Carina's love affair with interior design began in the most relatable way - sponge-dabbing her bedroom walls in the mid-90s during her family's villa renovation.
While her path initially led her to graphic design, twelve years at Citta working with textiles and seasonal homeware collections deepened her understanding of how colours and textures can transform a space.
BREAKING THE RULES
One of our favourite insights from Carina challenges common design misconceptions.
"A common misconception is that challenging rooms – whether small or dark – need to be painted white," Carina explains.
Instead of automatically reaching for white paint, she suggests embracing darker colours which can actually create depth and interest, making rooms feel larger by blurring wall boundaries.
AFFORDABLE TRANSFORMATIONS
For those looking to refresh their space without a major investment, Carina offers two fool-proof strategies:
Update textiles: New cushions and fresh bedding can instantly transform a room
Embrace paint: "I've seen countless 'Why didn't I do this sooner?' moments after taking the plunge with a new wall colour."
BRINGING NATURE INDOORS
We particularly loved Carina's budget-friendly tip for adding life to your space: "Take cuttings from a blossoming tree just before the buds open. Place them in a vase and watch as the blossoms gradually reveal themselves." It's these thoughtful touches that make a house feel like home.
WHAT'S NEXT
Currently, Carina is embarking on her most personal project yet - transforming her 1980s A-frame cottage from what she playfully describes as "an explosion of beige" into a space filled with personality and character.
Read on for our full interview with Carina, where she shares more insights about her journey, practical design tips, and how to find inspiration for your own space.
How did your journey in interior design begin?
My obsession with interior design began while sponge-dabbing my bedroom in the mid 90s – my parents were renovating our family villa and it was my first taste of transforming a space exactly how I wanted. While I initially dreamed of pursuing interior design in high school, I went down a different path and completed a degree in Graphic Design instead.
After graduating and travelling overseas, I landed a position at Citta through a friend. I spent over 12 years there as part of their textile team, designing seasonal homeware collections. While it wasn't traditional interior design, it gave me invaluable insight into the industry and deepened my understanding of how textiles and soft furnishings can transform a space.
What inspired you to start No Buttercups?
The birth of my second child marked a turning point for me. I left Citta which gave me time to reflect on what I really wanted to do. This led me to complete a Diploma in Interior Design. I began helping friends with their projects, gaining hands-on experience and building confidence. My years working with colour, pattern and textiles all came together. Eventually, I took the leap and launched No Buttercups – I figured it was now or never, and I haven't looked back.
What are your top tips for refreshing a space on a budget?
I have two go-to strategies that never fail. First, the quickest and easiest way to transform a space is through simple textile updates – new cushions and fresh bedding. A piece of artwork will also breathe new life into a room.
If you're ready for a slightly bigger project with maximum impact, paint is a game changer. I've seen countless "Why didn't I do this sooner?" moments after taking the plunge with a new wall colour. My advice? Don't be afraid to put your favourite colour on the walls – paint is relatively inexpensive, completely changeable, and I promise you won't regret it!
How can we bring spring indoors without breaking the bank?
My favourite budget-friendly way to bring spring indoors is simple yet magical: take cuttings from a blossoming tree just before the buds open. Place them in a vase and watch as the blossoms gradually reveal themselves. Not only is this completely free, but it also creates a beautiful focal point that brings the beauty of spring into your space. There's something really special about witnessing these delicate blooms open day by day in your home.
What's one common misconception about interior design?
A common misconception is that challenging rooms – whether small or dark – need to be painted white. While the impulse to "brighten up" these spaces is understandable, it's not always the best approach.
In small spaces, dark colours can actually create depth and interest, making the room feel larger by blurring the boundaries of walls. Similarly, in dark rooms, embracing the lack of natural light can transform what might be seen as a problem into a feature. Deep, rich colours can create a wonderful cosy atmosphere – think of elegant wine bars or boutique hotels that purposefully use darker palettes to create ambiance.
The key is working with the space rather than against it.
How do you approach styling different spaces in the home?
It’s important to consider the daily routines of a space – it is your morning coffee spot or where you wind down from the day – and style accordingly. The most successful rooms are those where beautiful design and styling enhances, rather than hinders, how you actually live in the space.
Where can people find inspiration for their own spaces?
Pinterest! It’s an incredible, easy to access source of inspiration. It’s a great place to discover design perspectives that differ from New Zealand's more conservative aesthetic. Seeing how others tackle similar spaces or challenges can spark creative solutions you might never have considered otherwise.
Can you share your favourite budget-friendly styling tricks?
Some of my favourite tricks include sourcing downloadable prints from Etsy, foraging seasonal wildflowers (daisies are a personal fav), and incorporating plants throughout the space. Building your plant collection doesn't have to be expensive – start by asking friends and family for cuttings! When it comes to planters, don't overlook places like Kmart and The Warehouse. While their selection can be hit or miss, you can often find little gems at budget-friendly prices.
What upcoming projects or workshops do you have planned?
Among client work, my biggest project is actually my own home – a 1980s A-frame cottage we recently bought. It's currently what I'd kindly describe as an explosion of beige, so I'm in the process of injecting some personality and character into the space. It may forever be a work in progress but I’m having fun coming up with a design plan!
A heartfelt thank you to Carina for sharing her time and expertise with us. Her approach to interior design - making it both accessible and exciting - perfectly aligns with our belief that everyone deserves a space that feels like home.
Follow Carina's work and get more inspiration:
Website: www.nobuttercups.com
Instagram: @nobuttercups_
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