Danielle Keane has spent years immersed in tiles, bathroomware and colour, and she’s fast becoming one of the go-to names for bathroom design in the Waikato. We sat down with her to talk about her path into design, where New Zealand bathrooms are heading, and the advice she gives every client before they start.
How did you get into bathroom design?
“My dad’s a tiler, so I grew up around it. Working in a tile retailer, I noticed a gap, homeowners wanted proper design guidance, not just a product to buy. So I built a business around guiding people from concept through to tile selection and procurement.” Danielle is also currently studying to become an Architectural Technician, with plans to offer full drawing services down the track.
What trends are you seeing in Waikato bathrooms right now?
“Terracotta is having a real moment, alongside softer natural tones, forest green, olive, linen, sand. Limewash and micro-cement finishes are gaining popularity too. I’m also seeing people bring in vintage, upcycled furniture pieces for character. Kiwis are moving away from playing it safe with resale-driven choices, and embracing more personal, expressive design.”
What’s the one piece of advice you give every client?
“Trust your instincts. Most people end up back at their first choice after second-guessing themselves for weeks. And always take samples home, see them in your own light, at different times of day, before you commit.”
What’s the most unusual thing you’ve come across?
“Carpeted bathrooms. I will never understand that one.”
Working with Bathroom Transformations
Danielle works closely alongside Justin Carter on selected projects, bringing specialist design and tile expertise to bathrooms across the Waikato. If colour, tile selection or overall design feel like the hardest part of your renovation, her eye for detail takes that pressure off entirely.