Hub Design Interiors - generational designs
Interiors are in the blood for Hub Design Interiors’ Carmen Hubber, her Queenstown interior design company now boasting multiple New Zealand and Australasian awards, some of the region’s most luxurious, high-end homes among them.
Founded in 2003, the company has become a leading name in Queenstown’s interior design scene, earning several notable accolades during the past 10 years. These include the Southern Region Best Kitchen Award and the coveted People’s Choice Award at the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA) Awards in 2024.
As founder and director Carmen, the company’s visionary leader, brings more than 30 years’ experience to every room. Her expertise was first recognised with the Emerging Designer Award in 2014, an honour later awarded to her daughter, Ruby, at the 2023 APT Design Awards, marking yet another significant generational milestone for the Hubber family.
Hub Design’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and passion for design is deeply rooted in Carmen’s family’s legacy. Sixty-five years ago, her father David Hubber and uncle Lloyd Hubber started their flooring business in Gore, laying carpet and vinyl. “That led to Lloyd opening Hubber’s Furnishings in Christchurch, where I began my own journey in interior design, aged 22,” Carmen says. She started out consulting on carpet and curtains in Christchurch working her way ‘from the ground up’.
Carmen still takes pride in the family business, valuing the personal connection it fosters with clients. “I prefer being a face and name behind the business rather than hiding behind a faceless corporation,” she says. Personal touch defines her business.
With decades of experience locally Carmen now has her own trusted team of skilled sub-contractors and years of working with wholesalers and importers means she can secure competitive prices. “I’ve developed a deep understanding of trades and construction through the years which ensures high standards of craftsmanship and a strong focus on natural materials,” she says. “I’m passionate about creating spaces that are beautiful and functional.” Each project is crafted to support daily life while reflecting the client’s style.
Carmen loves strong colours drawn from nature. Her company designs its own unique, custom-made furniture using a variety of natural products. “We create artistry through design using beautiful fabrics and textures,” she says. “We’re seeing influences from the 1950s to 1970s in colours, textures and patterns at present. Golds are becoming softer, more champagne than brassy, and we’re seeing a lot of chocolate coming through with the bronze and copper.”
She also works with clients wanting to furnish standout Airbnbs and spec houses, offering specialty cost effective interior and furniture packages.
“Together, we bring each client’s vision to life and prove that exceptional design is possible at any scale.”
