Michaela Ortauf

Your Account Manager, Michaela Ortauf, loves nothing better than bringing together her horticultural and design expertise to create inspiring spaces. Michaela is one of the most organised people that we know, so you don’t want to miss discovering her favourite productivity tech tool. Read on for that, and a few other fascinating facts. 

What’s your design background? I’ve always been creative and had a passion for design. My career started in South Africa with a Bachelor of Interior Design from the University of Johannesburg. Since then, I’ve worked in many areas of design.
My experience includes high-end residential interiors and commercial design, as well as joinery design. I also spent time gaining in-depth interior horticultural knowledge – which has obviously proved an asset!

What is one of the things you find most satisfying about your job? I love how people love plants in their workplaces. It’s so rewarding knowing the difference that my designs can make to how people work, use, and enjoy a space.

What is one of your favourite plants to use in your designs – and why? Syngoniums are top of my list. There are so many varieties to choose from and each brings a beautiful depth of colour.

What’s the one tech tool or life hack that you couldn’t live without? Microsoft OneNote is my must-have. It's a single platform that allows me to have all the information I need at my fingertips – from job notes to my ‘to do’ list. 

What has been a highlight over the past 12 months? It would be becoming a Wellingtonian. I’ve lived in Nelson and Auckland since moving to New Zealand in 2019, but Wellington very quickly won my heart. I’m really enjoying exploring the area.

Michaela truly is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to bringing spaces to life through plant design. Like to get in touch? Email her or call 027 410 3244.