Jean Foster heads the Queenstown branch of Foster and Burke, a
long-established successful interior design company with a 'sister'
office in Sydney.
A Queenstown resident since 1994, Jean says much of her
inspiration comes from a love of the world of nature along with a
personal passion for Europe, France in particular.
The business relationship with clients always starts with
written agreements that provide a clear understanding between both
parties, ensuring clients are familiar with all Foster and Burke's
policies, fees and business operations from the outset. This sets
the foundation for mutual respect, confidence and trust in a
professional business environment.
"I take time to build that trust in the early stages
of our business relationship because every client needs to feel
totally comfortable with me," says Jean.
"We would have no hesitation in using Jean for future work and
recommending her for projects that require flair, quality and that
'extra' eye for detail and finish. A project 'more' than well
done!" Trevor and Julie Thorpe, Hong Kong, on their Queenstown
penthouse.
Her work blends diverse elements from different periods and
styles to create inviting interiors with no obvious references to
'here-today-gone-tomorrow trends'. "I always aim to create a mood
of overall warmth and atmosphere using elements of the
classic and contemporary to impart a feeling of both nostalgia and
comfort," she says.
"I strive to use the best quality items available whilst
working within my clients' financial considerations and I'm
tenacious in seeking out exactly the right pieces for each project,
thereby infusing individuality and uniqueness to my interiors."
Jean maintains a database of international contacts through
which she is able to obtain almost any furniture item or accessory,
whether antique or contemporary. Bespoke and artisan manufacturers
throughout New Zealand provide an extremely valuable resource for
unique custom made items.
A close rapport with clients and a depth of understanding of
what they need and want is a cornerstone to her success as she
works intuitively to create interiors that match and exceed those
needs. "I also aim to make the process as stress-free and enjoyable
as possible," she says. "I bring total personal commitment and
integrity to every project, overseeing every detail with an
extremely 'hands on' approach. It's a seamless process for clients
who only have to worry about one point of contact."
"I commend Jean for her professionalism and
expertise. Jean has great flair with colour and her knowledge of
the finished effect has been invaluable." Ivan Clarke, Queenstown
artist, on the refurbishment of his home.
Jean's 20 years of design and project management experience
means she enjoys an enviable reputation for maintaining a
successful dialogue with architects, builders and other
professionals throughout a project to achieve optimum
results.
Along with Sydney-based business partner Stephen Burke, Jean has
a long history of working with absentee clients, providing clear,
honest, ongoing communication during the management of projects in
New Zealand or Australia. Client testimonials reflect Foster and
Burke's absolute dedication to delivering on time and within
budget and references are available.