Louise Raine

Louise Raine started at Coombes & Gabbie Lighting Design shortly after graduating with Wintec’s Diploma in Interior Design, and has advanced quickly into a lighting design role where she has the opportunity to work closely with clients on their building projects. 

“We work with clients who are renovating, building a new home or commercial project to provide lighting designs that complement the way each space is used,” says Louise. “My days are spent studying architectural drawings to create lighting designs, client consults, site visits, liaising with contractors involved in the build and dealing with showroom queries. There is a lot of project management required through every project to ensure a successful outcome.” 

Louise uses the skills learnt during the Diploma in Interior Design every day, she says. “Meeting challenging deadlines, managing projects, effective client communication, preparing and reading drawings - the list goes on. Having a background in interior design assists me in visualizing the overall design and look of a space and how the lighting design can be used to complement this.” She’s also found it valuable having a strong understanding of the design process from concept through to construction.

Every completed project is exciting, says Louise. “I find making an impact on the way people live in their homes hugely satisfying. I was also fortunate enough to work with Jon & Gemma Bridges on their new home in Mt Roskill, Auckland, resulting in my design being published on Jon’s ‘We’re Building a House’ blog on Stuff.co.nz.” 

Future aims for Louise are to continue to grow within Coombes & Gabbie Lighting Design and to build a client base. “Eventually I’d like to have my work be nationally recognized - or maybe even internationally.” 

She advises any aspiring interior designer to enjoy their time in the Diploma, and make the most of any work experience thrown their way.