Our Story
Olive Pink was a famous Australian botanical illustrator and anthropologist. She taught us that plants matter to people. Like us, she was also passionate about the Northern Territory.
The same belief — that place & plants matter deeply to people — sits at the heart of Olive & Pink. Founder and Director Josh Barnes chose the name to reflect a blend of thoughtful design and Northern Territory practicality. Olive symbolises landscape work; Pink for the intimacy of interior design.
With over three decades of experience as an environmental scientist and educator, Josh brings a grounded understanding of plants, people, and place — shaped through work in remote communities and major environmental impact assessments.
Olive & Pink is also an umbrella connecting the skills of other designers and craftspersons who offer a range of practical and united services. We are fortunate to co-create with other NT professional like Charlotte Byrnes (Arnhem Nursery), The Exhibitionist (graphic design & making), Diana Laing (Interior Design), Glenn Witherdin (GW Build), Aaron Kildia (NT Concrete) and others.
space & place consultancy
Our People
Joshua Barnes
Founder and Director
Diana Laing
Interior Design
Charlotte Byrnes
Arnhem Nursery
We are experienced at working with clients who want great spaces – homeowners, designers, architects, event organisers, business owners, and even bad plant parents. Whether your style is bold, subtle, or somewhere in between, we’ll craft a space that feels like the perfect reflection of your vision. Just ask our clients!
Olive & Pink brings together multiple design professionals, over 30 projects in three years in the NT, and over 20 years of professional practice in environmental design.
Our Values
planning for purpose
Olive & Pink projects are grounded in smart planning, balancing creativity with practicality to deliver results on time and on budget.
individualised design
Every space is created with purpose, ensuring it’s not just beautiful but also functional and meaningful to the people who use it.
sustainability & efficiency
We are committed to using resources responsibly and to designing for environmental preservation, resilience, and efficiency.
beauty & well-being
At Olive & Pink we value beauty for it’s own sake - an approach that enhances well-being, fosters conversation and inspires joy.
connection & community
Olive & Pink has planted it’s roots in the Northern Territory. We are proud to reflect local values, cultures, and environs while growing client relationships with the people and businesses who call it home.
Our Clients
Whether you're a local business owner, a community leader, or a homeowner, we bring the same level of care and creativity to every project. At Olive & Pink, we pride ourselves on working with a wide variety of clients, each with unique needs and visions. Here’s a glimpse of who we collaborate with:
Commercial Clients
From office spaces to retail outlets and beyond, we design environments that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal. We know how to create spaces that reflect your brand and meet the needs of your customers and team.
Homeowners and Apartment Dwellers
Whether you're planning a lush backyard retreat or transforming a small balcony into a green oasis, we’ll help you create a space that feels like home.
Community Groups
We’re passionate about projects that bring people together. From public gardens to cultural hubs, we design inclusive spaces that foster connection and celebrate local values. Josh has always volunteered for community groups and understands the needs of community endeavours.
Event Organisers
Need a space that sets the stage for something unforgettable? We specialise in creating dynamic and visually stunning backdrops for events of all kinds, from intimate gatherings to large-scale productions.
Design and Architecture Firms
We collaborate with industry professionals to enhance their projects, bringing our expertise in plant design, placemaking, and interiors to the table. We are a member of committee for the NT branch of Australian Institute of Landscape Architects.
Bad Plant Parents
If you’ve struggled to keep plants alive, we’re here to help! We’ll design low-maintenance greenery solutions that thrive in your space and suit your lifestyle.