MEET THE TEAM

Linda Christensen – CKD/CBDNZ - Designer/Director        

Linda formed the company, Kitchens by Design, in 1989 amid an uncertain economic environment, and has become an industry success story. ‘I had a passion for designing unique lifestyle places, individually tailored kitchens and bathrooms’, Linda recalls, ‘and I still do.’

Linda is a long time member of the National Kitchen & Bathroom Association, is a Certified Kitchen & Bathroom Designer as well as being a member of the Certified Designers Association.

 A multi award winning designer, Linda’s client list is extensive both nationally and internationally and is often invited to sit on the judging panel for NZ’s premier kitchen & bathroom awards.

Her talents don’t stop there. Linda is one of NZ’s most versatile designers. A background in Interior Design and the building industry gives her a unique ability to bring together all the creative and functional elements required to deliver a truly inspirational outcome.

Sue Gillbanks – CKDNZ- Designer/Director

Sue began in the ‘kitchen’ business in 1981 working for several large kitchen manufacturers  and spent 5 years designing kitchens for Alno & Poggenpohl.

After becoming a Certified Kitchen Designer in 1990 Sue set up her own independent Kitchen Design Co, specialising in middle to high end custom made kitchens.

In 2001 Sue became a Director in Kitchens by Design and has continued to expand her client base both in New Zealand and overseas. She has won the ‘Kitchen Designer of the Year’ title 3 times in NZ competitions as well as numerous other awards and has subsequently gone on to be a judge at these awards.

“I believe that successful design comes down to using the latest technology, the best products and incorporating design flair and passion, working with clients to create spaces that are functional, innovative, unique and timeless”.

Maggie Gardner - Bachelor of Design, Unitec – Designer

Maggie has a passion for architecture, art, light and colour and enjoys working with her clients to co-ordinate all elements in the living space.

She has a strong background in residential design and construction, forming a design and build partnership with her husband in 1989, which flourished successfully in the top end of the market. 
In 2002 Maggie enrolled in a 4-year full time design degree at Unitec, majoring in interior design.  After working in residential and commercial interior design for 2 years, she chose to specialise in kitchen design, working in both customised design and imported European kitchens.

Maggie joined Kitchens by Design in July 2010.

“I have a passion for transforming spaces and relish the project management aspect of my work.  I enjoy the complexity of kitchen design - the pulling together of beautiful materials, design elements and the latest technology to create an efficient, happy space where my clients just love to be.”

Pip Fleming – Administrator Extraordinaire

Pip joined the company in 2007 coming from a background in events, marketing and advertising.

Her role at KBD involves project costing, production co-ordination, marketing, administration, office management and ensuring that all facets of the business are running smoothly.

“If our business is running efficiently and smoothly it means our clients reap the rewards from a seamless and pleasurable experience from the start to completion of their project”

Sandrina Huish – CAD Technician

Sandrina has been with KBD since 2002 and is now responsible for all KBD’s CAD work. Her skill at interpreting the designer’s drawings and making sure that everything works on a technical basis is invaluable.

Sandrina’s love of photography allows her creative talents to shine and can be seen in many of the KBD kitchen photographs online.

Chris Walker – Accountant

Chris has a wealth of experience working with small and medium sized businesses in the accounting field. Chris is responsible for all KBD’s daily accounting work and is a valuable contributor when it comes to providing business solutions.

When not balancing the ledgers she is a fantastic backup in the admin area and will lend her hand to anything – accept designing the kitchens!

Brandy – Shih Tzu Maltese Terrier

She manages to get into all the photos so we thought we had better put a few words in for her.

She is another valuable member of the team particularly in the ‘meet-and-greet’ department! Very social and outgoing, we encourage her talents to make our ‘dog friendly’ clients feel right at home.

Even the ‘not-so-dog-friendly’ clients warm to her very quickly, or that could just be her dogged persistence!