About Us

New Zealand’s Business Interior Specialists

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We’ve successfully created inspiring, functional workplaces for a wide range of New Zealand and international companies.

For more than 20 years we’ve specialised in commercial interior design. We understand the intricacies of workplace design, and its unique opportunities (and challenges). In fact, that’s what we love about it.

From firms of four people to large organisations of hundreds. Every brief is different, and every design outcome uniquely tailored to different needs. Each workplace we design is beautifully and uniquely crafted, using the creative smarts of our talented team – yet each one is delivered on time and budget. Every time.

Meet Our Directors

David Gunn

David Gunn

Managing Director

I have been part of the STACK journey for the last 25 years and still get excited about creating new workspaces for people. My mantra to our team (or one of my mantras) is it is about people, people, people. We take them on a journey, and I love being part of that journey. It is also about our own people, and I love working with the team and watching them grow. Outside of work you will find me in the water, on the water or in my garden. Life is good.

Phone: 021723247
Email:  david@stack.co.nz

David Plaistowe

David Plaistowe

Design Director

A designer, architect, and creator. My passion for design and architecture came from my early years growing up building and putting things together. After studying architecture in NZ, I was fortunate to work on the first trail blazing workplace for ASB at C:Drive. Heading overseas, I worked in London for leading commercial designer Perkins Wills (pringle Brandon) at the cutting edge of workplace design. Returning to NZ, I found my new home at STACK where the fresh perspective and creative design responses resonated. I now lead the design team as Design Director – driven to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. When I’m not working or on the sporting side-lines watching my kids or ferrying them around, the great outdoors including running and hiking is a passion and I still find time to run around the sports field myself.

Phone: 021820223
Email:  davidp@stack.co.nz

Daryl Howarth

Daryl Howarth

Director Project Delivery

What gets me out of bed in the morning? My passion for what I do here at STACK, working with an awesome and talented team of professionals delivering successful outcomes for our clients. When I’m not in the office I love to spend time out on the water and hang out with the family and dog.

Phone: 021313406
Email:  daryl@stack.co.nz

Meet Our Team

Abigal Simango

Abigal Simango

Designer

Yearning for a change in geographic location, adventure, culture, and people; New Zealand has since been a base for me to explore all of the above and more, since the year of the big C! From South Africa, hungry for growth and development there was no better place than STACK to harness all that. My downtime can be anything from hiking trails of the beautiful Aotearoa, to searching for the most beautiful landscapes around and creating beautiful memories every step of the way.

Email:  abigal@stack.co.nz

Anna Travis

Anna Travis

Senior Designer

With many years of experience in the construction industry, I have explored various facets of design, from architecture and urban design to my current focus on commercial interior. Design truly lights me up, particularly how the textures and colours of interior finishes can be used to transform spaces and generate an emotional response. When I'm not immersed in my work or juggling the joys of parenting, you can find me enjoying the outdoors or music gigs - especially gigs in the outdoors!

Phone: 021748564
Email:  anna@stack.co.nz

Arno van der Westhuizen

Arno van der Westhuizen

Senior Project Manager

After graduating from the University of Iowa (USA), I moved to the UK where I started out as a kitchen fitter. I then moved back to South Africa in 2005 where I started my own Kitchen and Shopfitting company. I was awarded the opportunity to move to New Zealand in 2017 where I have been running retail and commercial fit out projects of various sizes. I was very fortunate to join STACK as a Senior Project Manager in January 2022. When I am away from work, I am a husband to my beautiful wife Candice and father to two very busy boys, Eben and Liam.

Phone: 0224877588
Email:  arno@stack.co.nz

Brian Gomes

Brian Gomes

Senior Project Manager

I have been in the construction and large scale joinery manufacturing Industry for more than 26 years. A large part of that was running my own successful business that specialised in commercial interior fit-outs. I feel extremely honoured, proud and excited to be working with the STACK Team, who are the best in the business in my opinion. When i am not at work grinding and hustling, you will find me spending time with my beautiful wife, my three superstar sons and my beautiful princess daughter. Life is GREAT!!!!

Phone: 0223889923
Email:  brian@stack.co.nz

Dave Evitt

Dave Evitt

Business Development Manager

I'm fortunate to have been working with and supporting designers for over 13 years. I started out in the industry in Melbourne in 2009 and have worked across the Marketing/Comms/BD functions of design firms since then. Working with the talented and passionate team at STACK is a highlight. I grew up in Nelson, studied in Wellington, and lived in Melbourne for over 10 years before returning to Auckland at the end of 2019. I'm the proud uncle to three nephews!

Phone: 0273752229
Email:  dave@stack.co.nz

Emmett Boyle

Emmett Boyle

Quantity Surveyor

Originally from Gore…

Email:  emmett@stack.co.nz

Howie Johns

Howie Johns

Site Manager

I am a fourth Generation New Zealander and have lived in Auckland all my life. After leaving Auckland Grammar I embarked on a boatbuilding apprenticeship and for over 10 years I worked on a variety of projects from Cook Strait ferries to America’s Cup boats. I then spent several years in residential carpentry before becoming a construction supervisor in 1998 delivering projects of all sizes. I’m fortunate to be changing direction slightly in joining STACK producing high quality interiors. I am married and have two great young adults 16 and 19. Jet ski fishing and darts are my passions when time allows.

Phone: 0272872345
Email:  howie@stack.co.nz

Iva Parapunova

Iva Parapunova

Designer

My family immigrated to NZ when I was 8 years old. It’s at that time that I found and fell in love with the game of tennis. A scholarship to the US led to 6 years of studying and competing in two polar opposite US states, Montana and Alabama. Post-graduation, I began my design career with Friedmutter Group in Las Vegas where I was lucky enough to work on hospitality projects, most notably the Palms Casino Renovation. I returned to Auckland in 2018 and have since been a proud member of the hardworking and passionate team at STACK.

Email:  iva@stack.co.nz

Jacquette Barrington

Jacquette Barrington

Senior Designer

I have been a designer in the commercial interiors industry for longer than I’m willing to admit, with extensive experience in all aspect of the design process. You could say it’s in my blood. And the same could be said of my time at STACK. I worked on contract for the founding directors from STACK’s inception (whenever I wasn’t busy on mum duties) until 2008 when I made the big leap of coming back into the office….and I haven’t looked back. I work with a dynamic, motivated, fun-loving team, that are passionate about good design, and delivering clients an interior they can be proud of.

Email:  jacquette@stack.co.nz

Jesse James Smith

Jesse James Smith

Senior Designer

As the son of a builder and architect I’ve always had a love for designing and building things. Seven years working in architecture in London exposed me to some pretty large building projects but the last 10+ years working with commercial interiors has given me a greater opportunity to push design boundaries and keep things fresh. I love to see how good design can alter human behaviours and culture for the better. With three budding young designers living at home (my kids) having fun designing really never stops for me.

Phone: +61 451655911
Email:  jesse@stack.co.nz

Joyce Yang

Joyce Yang

Designer

With a passion for all things creativity and design, I have been in the commercial interior industry for a few years and counting. Out of the office you will find me out in nature, eating lots of sushi, or juggling one too many unfinished craft projects.

Phone: 0226587787
Email:  joyce@stack.co.nz

Lauren Ross

Lauren Ross

Senior Designer

Born in South Africa, with a love/hate relationship with coffee and the gym. Always keen for a dinner party and will never say no to a Sunday afternoon nap. Lover of all things design and have an ever increasing collection of plants.

Phone: 021662166
Email:  lauren@stack.co.nz

Lauren Schott

Lauren Schott

Senior Designer

My New Zealand experience began as a three-month campervan road trip. Six years later, I have a house, a cat, a dog and a career in commercial interiors that has connected me with amazing people and spaces all over Auckland. My journey began in South Africa, with a few years in South Korea and Vietnam along the way, and I'm proud to bring my passion for forward-thinking design and human connection to the STACK team. Outside work, you'll likely find me with tea in my hand or, weather permitting, sand between my toes.

Phone: 0212433143
Email:  laurens@stack.co.nz

Pranil Mistry

Pranil Mistry

Designer

“For someone who wears a lot of black he sure does have a colourful personality”. From a young age, I had a passion for building things, so much so that my backpack from kindergarten would be filled with blocks. So here we are, from blocks to design. Beyond design my other interests include cooking and hosting dinner parties for family and friends. With a side of hockey in the weekends. In my spare time I work on my side projects including photography, graphic and visual design.

Phone: 0212529440
Email:  pranil@stack.co.nz

Sally Vandal

Sally Vandal

Technical Team Leader

Details, details, details. Having worked for STACK on and off since 1999 as a technician, my passion is solving problems and helping to make the designer’s vision a reality.  I lived and worked in Montréal, Québec, for 10 years, where I practised my French, learned imperial measurements and how to cope with seven months of winter. I love gardening and using power tools! I have a city garden as well as a rural piece of land, so these hobbies get plenty of attention. My latest toy is a ride-on mower. 

Phone: 0226709505
Email:  sally@stack.co.nz

Sarah Hansford

Sarah Hansford

Designer

I’m an Interior Designer, originally from South Africa, and have considered New Zealand home for the past five years. With a passion for creating inspiring and functional spaces, I’ve had the opportunity to work on some notable projects across the country, blending creativity with a  fresh, thoughtful design perspective. In a past life, I was a competitive swimmer, and while those days are behind me, I still enjoy getting back into the pool, or the ocean, now and then. When I’m not designing or swimming, you’ll find me trying to stay active whether it's hiking, biking, or squeezing in a gym session. And when the weekend rolls around, I’m always ready for a cheeky getaway because who says great design can’t come with a side of adventure?

Phone: 0275644511
Email:  sarah@stack.co.nz

Sophie Powrie

Sophie Powrie

Junior Quantity Surveyor

I grew up in a little beach town, South of Auckland. From a young age I was always in or around the water no matter the weather. If you couldn't find me there you could, and still can find me, helping my Dad build decks, drive the digger, and other things around the house. I believe this has drawn me to the construction industry, and heavily impacted my path in life to complete my Bachelors of Construction degree. If I am not at work, I will be chasing sunsets and waves, as the ocean and beach truly are home for me.

Phone: 0274909332
Email:  sophie@stack.co.nz

Thomas Carlos

Thomas Carlos

Designer

A few years ago, I embarked on a journey that would shape my creative identity. I set out to explore the vibrant tapestry of Japan, immersing myself in the rich cultural heritage and innovation of the land. The cross-cultural experience became a pivotal chapter, infusing my designs with harmonious fusion of Kiwi authenticity and Japanese precision. I came back to New Zealand with a unique perspective that resonates globally, proving that the intersection of diverse influences can yield unparalleled creativity in the world of design. Outside of work, I juggle between hobbies - cars, eating, hiking, playing music, photography, building guitars, amps and furniture.

Phone: 02109096713
Email:  thomas@stack.co.nz

Willem Du Toit

Willem Du Toit

Senior Site Manager

I have worked in the construction industry for more than 15 years and I particularly love fitout projects. I am very ambitious, striving to do more and grow each day. Outside the workplace I like camping, fishing, and spending time with my wife Candice and children Janke and Juwan.

Phone: 021762465
Email:  willem@stack.co.nz

Zlatko Vuletic

Zlatko Vuletic

Technician

Having transitioned to STACK with a background in architecture, merging my understanding of building envelopes with interior design has proven to be an absorbing journey. It's been a process of fusing disciplines, blending structural considerations with aesthetic preferences, and uncovering the intricate relationship between form and function. Outside of STACK, you can find me tinkering under the hood of a car, catching up with friends at a pub or trying not to get knocked out in the boxing ring. 

Phone: 0211617401
Email:  zlatko@stack.co.nz

What sets us apart

Proudly NZ-owned and operated, our team brings both local and international experience with many years’ combined experience. We’re a multi-talented team of around 20 staff, including Design and Construction professionals, Designers, Space Planners, Workplace Strategists, Technicians, and Quantity Surveyors.

We’re passionate about creating innovative design-focused workplaces that celebrate the uniqueness of each client’s business. Workplaces that our clients love working in, that inspire their staff and wow their clients.

The advantages of working with STACK

For more than 20 years we’ve been designing workplaces that effortlessly blend creativity with functionality. We have a focus on great design through practicality, innovation and collaboration. Our promise is to always deliver our work on time and on budget and we work hard as a team internally and with other consultants to achieve this.

01

Experience

Proudly NZ-owned and operated, STACK’s multi-talented team brings together many years of local and international experience. We know what suits New Zealand workplaces and what makes them different – from our climate, to our people, to our plate tectonics.

02

Track record

We’ve been specialists in business interior design since we started in 1998. This means we have completed many projects with the same challenges you face. We’ll be putting our learning to work on your project, not learning on your job.

03

Local service

As New Zealand’s leading local specialists, our whole structure is designed to deliver interior design brilliance effectively. Clients come back to us time and time again because our innovation is underpinned by local knowledge and local client service, at every stage of the project. 

SERVICES

Collaborate, create and enjoy your workplace with our tailored design approaches

To truly succeed, your workplace needs to be somewhere people enjoy as they work together, collaborate and create. Our design-driven approach results in creative, unique business and office interiors that delight and inspire – and never compromise on functionality.

Strategy
Strategy
Design
Design
Delivery
Delivery
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“STACK has provided us with an amazing refurbishment which strongly represents the innovation of the Mercedes-Benz brand.”

Debbie Russ
Mercedes Benz, Manager of Business Services
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“We said essentially to STACK - we told you who we are, now create the look, the feel, the brand. We were happy with what was created from day one. It was easy!”

Mark Gavin
Hudson Gavin Martin, Partner
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“STACK did a phenomenal job of translating a difficult brief – they took the time to really understand the substance of what our desired outcomes was, and delivered a design that truly exceeded our expectations.”

Greg Lynas
Z Energy, People and Culture Special Projects Manager
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“When you have responses within a staff survey which say “I can’t believe that I am lucky enough to get to work here”, then you know you’ve done something right with your relocation. We are thrilled with our new home in Madden Street.”

Rob Cooke
Online Republic, CMO