The Expertise Behind Designs for Fires
Independent Fireplace Designer | Technical Specialist
Industry Highlights
20+ Years of Specialist Experience
Providing fireplace design, technical advice and compliance support throughout New Zealand and Australia.
Industry Product Development
Played a key role in testing and introducing internationally recognised fireplace products, including the Stovax Studio range and the Stûv 30 Compact One, to the Australasian market.
Clean Air Fireplace Innovation
Contributed to the testing and launch of New Zealand's first large landscape Clean Air fireplace, helping shape the next generation of high-performance wood fireplaces.
Architect & Builder Support
Worked alongside architects, builders and installers across New Zealand to solve complex fireplace design, installation and compliance challenges.
A passion for warmth, design, and connection
Angela believes a fireplace should do more than heat a room. It should become the heart of the home – bringing together architecture, interior design and the way people live.
For more than two decades, she has helped homeowners, architects and builders create fireplaces that are not only beautiful, but practical, safe and technically correct. By combining creative design with detailed technical knowledge, Angela helps clients make confident decisions from concept through to installation.
"Creating spaces where people relax, connect and enjoy the warmth of a fire is what inspires me. Every project is an opportunity to create something both functional and beautiful."
Whether you're building a new home, renovating or replacing an existing fireplace, Designs For Fires provides independent design advice backed by more than 20 years of specialist fireplace experience.
More than 20 years of specialist fireplace experience
Angela has built a career specialising in fireplace design, product development, compliance and technical advisory services throughout New Zealand, Australia and international markets.
With qualifications in both Architecture and Interior Design, combined with extensive industry experience, she offers a unique perspective that bridges design creativity with technical expertise.
Throughout her career Angela has worked closely with architects, interior designers, builders, installers, manufacturers and testing laboratories to deliver fireplace solutions that integrate seamlessly into the home while meeting New Zealand building and compliance requirements.
Today, Designs For Fires provides completely independent fireplace design advice, ensuring every recommendation is based solely on what is right for the client and their project.
Technical fireplace expertise
Behind every beautiful fireplace is careful planning, technical knowledge and attention to detail.
Angela specialises in helping clients navigate the technical aspects of fireplace design, ensuring each project performs as well as it looks.
Areas of expertise include:
Fireplace design & specification
Building Code & clearance advice
Council documentation
Technical drawings
Compliance & emissions testing
Product development
Manufacturer liaison
Residential & architectural solutions
Whether working with a new build, renovation or existing fireplace, Angela helps ensure every design is practical, compliant and ready for construction.
Why clients choose Designs For Fires
Unlike a fireplace retailer, Designs For Fires provides completely independent advice.
Every recommendation is based on your home, your lifestyle and your design goals—not on selling a particular brand.
Clients choose Designs For Fires because they value:
Independent Advice
Recommendations based on what is best for your project, not sales targets.
Design Expertise
Architectural and interior design knowledge that ensures your fireplace enhances the overall space.
Technical Confidence
Detailed understanding of New Zealand Building Code requirements, installation standards and product compliance.
Industry Experience
Over two decades working alongside architects, builders, manufacturers and installers across New Zealand and Australia.
Whether you're building a new home, renovating or replacing an existing fireplace, Angela provides trusted guidance from concept through to completion.
Qualifications & Recognition
Angela's qualifications combine architecture, interior design and specialist fireplace expertise.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Building Science (Architecture) – Victoria University of Wellington
Graduate Diploma in Interior Design (Distinction) – Queensland University of Technology
Professional Member – Designers Institute of New Zealand
Industry Recognition
Gold Award (Retail) – Ellerslie Flower Show
Emerging Designer Award – Design Institute of Australia (Queensland)
These qualifications, combined with extensive hands-on industry experience, provide clients with confidence that every project is both creatively considered and technically sound.
Let’s create the right fireplace for your home
Whether you're planning a new build, renovating or replacing an existing fireplace, Designs For Fires can help you make informed decisions with confidence.