I'm Gwyn Guanzon, a multidisciplinary designer with over 20 years of experience spanning architecture, interiors, furniture, production design, and creative direction. My practice is shaped by cultural sensitivity, technical rigour, and design integrity, with projects ranging from residential and retail to editorial and theatrical environments—each grounded in site, history, and community. A background in theatre informs a collaborative, adaptive approach to problem-solving, while a focus on inclusive, future-oriented design supports meaningful contributions to Aotearoa’s evolving built environment.

Gwyn Guanzon

I'm Gwyn Guanzon, a multidisciplinary designer with over 20 years of experience spanning architecture, interiors, furniture, production design, and creative direction. My practice is shaped by cultural sensitivity, technical rigour, and design integrity, with projects ranging from residential and retail to editorial and theatrical environments—each grounded in site, history, and community. A background in theatre informs a collaborative, adaptive approach to problem-solving, while a focus on inclusive, future-oriented design supports meaningful contributions to Aotearoa’s evolving built environment.

Available to hire

I’m Gwyn Guanzon, a multidisciplinary designer with over 20 years of experience spanning architecture, interiors, furniture, production design, and creative direction. My practice is shaped by cultural sensitivity, technical rigour, and design integrity, with projects ranging from residential and retail to editorial and theatrical environments—each grounded in site, history, and community.

A background in theatre informs a collaborative, adaptive approach to problem-solving, while a focus on inclusive, future-oriented design supports meaningful contributions to Aotearoa’s evolving built environment.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Architectural Technician at Gravity Architecture
September 1, 2022 - September 1, 2022
Prepared comprehensive drawing packages for resource and building consent applications, ensuring full compliance with the New Zealand Building Code and relevant standards. Developed detailed construction documentation for Kāinga Ora single-detached and multi-unit housing projects, supporting planning, coordination, and regulatory approval across all stages of the consent process.
Interior and Production Designer at Freelance
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2017
Developed interior design concepts for residential and commercial spaces, tailoring spatial solutions to client needs from initial concept through construction and final handover. Led multiple design projects across film, television, and theatre, overseeing creative direction and managing teams of art directors, props specialists, costume designers, and makeup artists to deliver cohesive visual narratives aligned with each production’s vision.
Lecturer, Interior Decoration and Styling at School of Fashion and the Arts (SOFA)
December 31, 2013 - December 31, 2013
Designed and delivered a two-semester syllabus on historical period styles and contemporary design trends for a class of twenty students, integrating theoretical frameworks with practical applications. Lectured on interior styling techniques for both photographic staging and live set environments, emphasizing composition, lighting, and spatial storytelling.
Creative Consultant at Good Housekeeping Magazine, Summit Media
August 31, 2008 - August 31, 2008
Partnered with the Art Director of the Philippine franchise to rebrand the magazine in alignment with the Good Housekeeping US style guide from Hearst Communications, ensuring visual consistency and editorial integrity. Led the creative direction, production, and execution of multiple photo shoots to establish and reinforce the refreshed brand identity across print and promotional materials.
Art Director at Real Living Magazine, Summit Media
June 1, 2009 - June 1, 2009
Established and evolved the visual identity of a leading glossy décor magazine, ensuring visual consistency and editorial quality across all stages—from concept development to final print—while mentoring junior styling staff.
Creative Director at Real Living Magazine, Summit Media
October 1, 2012 - October 1, 2012
As Creative Director from 2009, oversaw the magazine’s visual identity and editorial quality across all stages—from concept development and research to production and print—while mentoring junior staff.
Colour Consultant at Wattyl - Hempel Paints
November 1, 2024 - November 6, 2025
Provided tailored painting colour guidance to Mitre 10 stores, aligning palettes with lighting conditions, surface types, and design preferences for residential and commercial projects.

Education

Bachelor of Architectural Studies at Ara Institute of Canterbury - Te Pukenga
January 11, 2030 - November 6, 2025
Certificate in Interior Design at Philippine School of Interior Design
January 11, 2030 - November 6, 2025
Bachelor of Science in Education Major in Art and Theatre (undergrad) at University of the Philippines - Diliman
January 11, 2030 - November 6, 2025
Masters in Architecture (Prof) at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington
January 1, 2024 - November 6, 2025

Qualifications

Masters in Architecture (Prof)
January 1, 2024 - November 6, 2025

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Real Estate & Construction, Retail