Estate Design

grande provence heritage wine estate

Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand, the exceptionally talented interior designer, Virginia Fisher, burst onto the design scene with her inaugural project, Huka Lodge in Taupo, New Zealand. It was here that she first captivated the public's imagination with her exquisite craftsmanship and keen eye for detail.

In 2004, when Alex van Heeren took ownership of a remarkable property, he recognised the need for an interior that would not just complement but elevate the natural splendour of this extraordinary location.

Interior Design Excellence

In 1984, when Alex van Heeren acquired the iconic Huka Lodge, he recognised the need for an interior that would not only harmonise with the natural beauty of the surroundings but also elevate it to new heights. With a visionary outlook, he turned to Virginia Fisher, entrusting her with the pivotal task of fashioning an interior that would not just complement but enhance the innate splendour of this extraordinary location.

Virginia Fisher rose to the occasion with unparalleled creativity and dedication. Drawing inspiration from the property's rich heritage, she embarked on a transformative journey to craft an interior and ambience that, to this day, remains unparalleled in its beauty and allure. Her design philosophy breathed new life into Huka Lodge, infusing it with a sense of timelessness and elegance.

A Legacy of Extraordinary Projects

In the remarkable collaboration between Virginia Fisher and Alex van Heeren, a series of exceptional projects has come to life, each bearing the hallmark of their shared vision for creating truly remarkable guest experiences.

One of their notable endeavours was the historic Grande Provence estate, nestled in the captivating Franschhoek Valley of South Africa. Founded by French Huguenots in 1694, this estate carried a rich and colourful history. Virginia Fisher's remarkable ability to perceive precisely what a property should offer its guests was brought to the forefront once again. Her innate understanding and visionary design sense, weaving texture and ambience seamlessly into the estate's visual identity, resulted in a truly magnificent transformation.

Landscape Design Excellence

Suzanne Turley, renowned for her career in the world of fashion, embarked on a new chapter as a landscape designer. Her transition into this field was marked by an exceptional eye for colour and a deep understanding of the significance of texture. These refined skills are evident in every facet of Suzanne's garden design work.

Through her consultancy work, Suzanne Turley eventually forged a partnership with architect Pascal Tibbets and landscape architect Aaron Bell Booth. Together, this trio of creative minds now collaborates as a cohesive team, infusing their distinct talents into the realm of landscape design. With a shared appreciation for colour, texture, and aesthetics, they bring forth outdoor spaces that captivate the senses and redefine the art of landscaping.

A Harmonious Partnership

Suzanne Turley's remarkable work in the realm of landscape design caught the discerning eye of esteemed interior designer Virginia Fisher, leading to a series of significant collaborations that have left an indelible mark on prestigious projects.

Their partnership began with the ongoing development of the gardens at Huka Lodge, a venture that would prove immensely successful. This initial triumph set the stage for further collaborative endeavours, including their combined efforts at Grande Provence Estate, where they continued to weave their magic in the realm of landscape aesthetics.