Measuring one of my earliest residential projects in Sydney.

A different route into design

Architecture had always interested me, but my route into design began with a different career. After moving to Sydney to work in pharmacy, I found myself spending weekends exploring open homes—studying their layouts, details and the way each space worked.

While raising a young family, I retrained as a Building Designer and joined my first residential design practice in 2015. The practice was led by a designer with a structural engineering background, teaching me from the outset that good design must do more than look considered: it must be technically resolved and ready to build.

Sydney to Surrey

After twenty years in Australia, I returned to England and established Donna Barnes Designs in Surrey.

My work draws on both places: the character, proportion and craftsmanship of traditional English homes, together with the natural light, openness and everyday practicality of Australian living. I particularly enjoy working with established houses—understanding what is worth retaining, identifying where thoughtful change can make the greatest difference, and creating spaces that feel connected to the original home.

Every project still begins in the same way: by listening carefully and understanding how the people who live there want their home to work.

The Pyrford Project—my own Surrey home and an ongoing study in thoughtful renovation.