SUZY MARTIN | Owner | Creative Director

The name ‘maho’ stems from my surname, Martin and the word ‘home’: a place very close to me that is a continual source of comfort, energy and inspiration.

As a designer, my aspiration has always been to design cohesive interiors using sustainable materials that reflect refined simplicity, a sense of calm and wellbeing.

I have a strong architectural approach to my designs and an eye for detail, with over 20 years of interior design knowledge and experience. I’m a graduate from Victoria University’s School of Architecture and Design with a Bachelor of Design (majoring in Interiors).

I have spent much of my career working for noted New Zealand architectural firms Athfield Architects and Jasmax. In 2021 my family returned to New Zealand after seven years of living in Asia and the Middle East.

During my time in Dubai I established my own interior consultancy and textile brand, Fringe Society Design. My bespoke pieces are now enjoyed in many homes throughout the United Arab Emirates and New Zealand.

Having settled in Hawke’s Bay and rebranding as maho, it was time to get back to my real passion - space planning and designing beautiful environments that not only function seamlessly but are uplifting to be in. 

With three school age children, I understand busy family life, and this practical experience only enhances my design solutions.