Tim Neve's approach to interior design is anything but ordinary. With over two decades of experience and an international reputation for his ahead-of-the-trend aesthetics, Tim has carved out a unique space in the Australian design landscape - one where intuition meets expertise, and where every choice tells a story.
Tim is known for his dynamic textile, furniture and spatial designs many of which have caught the attention of publications such as Architectural Digest, Living etc and Elle Décor. Tim's work is instantly recognisable yet constantly evolving. But what drives this creative vision? The answer lies in his deeply personal approach to design and an endless fascination with the world around him.
Always on the Hunt for the Unique
"I'm always on the hunt for the most unique pieces for my interiors. So much so, I've leant into really customising, which has resulted in my own 'Tim Neve' designs: homewares and textile range to land on really distinctive solutions," Tim explains.
This pursuit of originality stems from his background in editorial styling, where attention to detail isn't just significant, it's everything.
"As I come from a background in styling – first for interior magazines and shoots – I'm always considering the smallest of details in a space, as well as the big picture. In my head, I'll be pulling together all those layers of a room up until the final install, so I know it's really going to work."
A Signature Style Grounded in Nature and Nostalgia
While Tim's work spans various aesthetics to suit his clients' needs, there are unmistakable threads that run throughout his portfolio.
"I'm known for my warm, earthy colour palettes – and for mixing and layering patterns and textures to create tonal but vibrant spaces. I opt for organic edges and artisan forms throughout my styling," he says.
But perhaps most fascinating is where Tim draws his inspiration.
"It's an interesting combination of nature and history, I'd have to say. I'm endlessly fascinated by the natural textures and pattern repeats found in the natural environment. Mimicking those in an interior adds such an authentic, comforting layer, I find. And then, rather than seeking out the most trendy solution, I love to look back at architecture and elements from the past and pull out motifs and visual stamps that can be applied for a sense of belonging and timelessness."
This philosophy creates spaces that feel fresh yet familiar. Contemporary, but grounded in something deeper than passing trends.
How Tim's Creative Process Unfolds
Tim's design process is as visual as you'd expect from someone with his editorial background. "I'm pretty decisive when it comes to the crunch. But throughout the design process I'm really visual of course - using mood boards to pull together colour palettes and ideas onto a page, and then if it's something really spatial or structural I'll create a 3D model to really get a sense of things."
This methodical yet intuitive approach allows him to test concepts before committing, ensuring that every element works harmoniously within the larger vision of his projects.
The Art of Product Selection
In an era where consumers are increasingly conscious about the origins of their purchases, Tim's approach to product selection resonates deeply.
"As a buyer, I find both myself and clients want to know the full backstory and lifecycle of a product these days. So, transparency from a supplier in terms of production methods and materials is so important. That's why specifying from Nood Co is so simple, as a great example - their Aussie production process is proudly part of their brand story!"
Tim's commitment to transparency extends beyond ethics to aesthetics.
"The shapes, the colours, the quality! I adore that a Nood Co basin adds a pop of designer colour and form into any bathroom space. In all honesty, I've found myself designing entire bathrooms based around the Nood Co basin as the starting point. Their little concrete colour chips are always in my samples stash!"
Mastering the Language of Colour and Texture
One of Tim's most valuable insights comes from his deep understanding of colour theory.
"My key tip for colour is undertones. Even if you're choosing just whites and neutrals for a space, stop and analyse if they are in the warm or cool spectrum of the colour wheel. Once you've done that, you can mix and match a cohesive palette - everything should speak the same visual language then.”
Tim saw one of his most recent projects, Hipwell Haus, as an opportunity to push boundaries with bolder palettes and design choices. He also explored the important role texture plays in design.
"When you're putting it against the texture of the brick, you need that visual contrast to strike a balance with the choice of materials."
This philosophy extended to every detail, including the selection of basins throughout the home.
A once forgotten warehouse, Hipwell Haus, has been masterfully transformed into a vibrant home bursting with colour, texture, warmth and pattern. Steeped in history, the building has found new life under the expert guidance of Tim.
Tim chose several Nood Co pieces that would add personality while complementing the building's unique character: a Betty basin in Clay for the main bathroom, along with Mill basins in Clay and Nood and our Cast Basin in Pastel Peach for other bathing spaces throughout the home.
Tim’s technical understanding of colour and texture, paired with an intuitive eye, brings a sense of effortless cohesion to the warehouse’s transformation - balancing raw character with refined, visually engaging design.
Designing Beyond the Studio
Beyond his design practice, Tim is passionate about sharing his knowledge. "Social media is such a great platform for sharing, and as an educator of interior design as well, I can't help but document all of my experimentations online for others to experience - I love that it provides so much inspiration!"
With a dual Diploma in Vocational Training and experience managing renowned design schools across Australia, Tim has recently launched his own online platform, The Styling Department, making his expertise accessible to design enthusiasts worldwide. His debut course, Curate + Display: Homewares, features five comprehensive modules that explore the foundations of styling, from vignettes to table scapes, and even how to capture your content for social media. The course includes nearly 200 minutes of live video footage, where Tim demonstrates key techniques for you to master. Each lesson comes with a downloadable e-book packed with visual inspiration drawn from Tim’s own recognisable body of work.
Continuing the Story
Even with major projects like Hipwell Haus behind him - a two-year transformation from dirt floors and crumbling brick to a vibrant, design-led family home - Tim’s creative energy is far from spent.
"I'm already dreaming up my next 'Haus!' As a creative person, you can't help but look forward to the next opportunity. In the same way, I really pushed myself at Hipwell to try bolder palettes and design choices throughout, I'm really excited to maybe go off on a completely different tangent with the next project." He says.
A Practice Grounded in Philosophy and Defined by Intention.
What sets Tim’s design philosophy apart isn’t just his strong technical skills or his eye for detail, it’s his understanding that great design goes far beyond aesthetics. He draws inspiration from the natural world and wisdom of those who came before him, he makes conscious, transparent choices in the materials he uses and continually pushes himself to explore new and exciting creative directions.
The result? Spaces that feel beautiful not just in form, but in story, layered with meaning and shaped by intention.
In a world of fast trends and disposable design, Tim Neve offers something different: designs that honour the past, celebrate the present and stand the test of time. It’s an approach rooted in something deeper than style - a response to the human need for considered spaces that feel like home.
Tim will be launching his newest range 'Artefact' at Decor & Design and Life Instyle in Melbourne this year. To explore more of Tim’s work, shop his latest collections or learn through his online styling school, visit timneve.com.
July 12, 2025
Nood Co
