A Tauranga interior designer is calling for women to wrap support around other women by creating safe and comfortable space for in times of need.

Janah Kingi is embarking on a project with an all-female crew to make over the bedrooms in Tauranga Women's Refuge.

Using her interior design business – Studio Janah, Janah's goal is to create nurturing and empowering spaces for women seeking shelter.

'I was a child of a pretty unhealthy environment so I guess I know first-hand how important it is to have a nice comforting space and then to recognise organisations that are so giving to support women in those circumstances,” says Janah.

A firm believer of women supporting women, Janah is seeking an all-female taskforce to donate their time and skills to this project. 'We can achieve incredible results together and particularly for these women who are taking such an involved brave step to start a better life for themselves and their children.”

Janah has her own background in the construction industry as a project manager and is after female tradies in building and electrical. 'When I started in that industry it was extremely challenging. It was very male-dominated and we had to really pave our own way to be seen and heard. I think women bring an exceptional eye to detail, and they just bring a different perspective that is vital to the industry.”

Janah says women sheltering at Women's Refuge are taking their first steps from leaving an unhealthy environment. 'To leave that and then go to a space where women know they're supported and it's nurturing – that's such an incredible gift that I can give with my skillset.”

The makeover at Tauranga Women's Refuge is still in the design and fundraising phase, says Janah. 'The support has been incredible and sometimes there's no words for such kindness from people – so this is something I know myself and the Women's Refuge will be forever grateful for.”

If you or a woman you know has building, electrical or renovation skills and is keen to help out with this project, email: hello@studiojanah.co.nz To help fund this project, visit: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/tauranga-womens-refuge