Camilla & Abd El Kader
Journal
To close the series, we turn to Camilla Temple—founder of her own Auckland-based studio and one of those rare designers who makes sophistication feel entirely effortless.
Born in New Zealand and shaped by years spent between Hong Kong and the UK, Camilla brings a worldly lens to her work—one that absorbs international influences without losing a distinctly Kiwi sensibility. Her interiors are quietly luxurious, layered with personality, and designed above all to be lived in. Beauty and functionality, held in easy balance.
A mother of two and the driving force behind her own studio, Camilla approaches every project with the same conviction: that a well-designed space should feel personal before it feels impressive. Her rooms reflect the people who inhabit them—their rhythms, their warmth, their particular way of being at home. That's the craft.
It's no surprise then, that she's drawn to Abd el Kader—fresh, green, and quietly complex. A scent that feels lived-in from the first moment.
Below is a Q&A we did with Camilla to further understand her relationship with scent, in particular Abd el Kader by Trudon.
Is there a scent that reminds you of home?
Jasmine. It's a scent I've always associated with New Zealand, and particularly with my own homes. We always plant it near the entrance, and I love walking through the gate and instantly being greeted by its fragrance. It's such a beautiful welcome home and a scent that feels deeply familiar and comforting to me.
Is there a particular moment or ritual in your day when scent plays a role?
Definitely. I usually light a candle in the evening when the day starts to slow down. It's a simple ritual, but it creates a sense of calm and signals the transition from work to home life. My children love it too, and I think it helps everyone unwind at the end of the day.
What is it about Abd el Kader that you are drawn to?
What I love most about Abd El Kader is its ability to transport you somewhere else. There's something about it that feels connected to travel and discovery. The fragrance evokes memories of wandering through unfamiliar places and experiencing different cultures, which is something I'm drawn to. I've always loved surrounding myself with pieces that tell a story, whether it's a ceramic from Italy or a textile from India. Abd El Kader feels much the same. It has a richness and depth that sparks the imagination. Scent is such a powerful storyteller, and for me, this fragrance brings a sense of escapism into the home. It feels as though the everyday fades away for a moment and you're transported somewhere rich with culture and history. At the same time, it feels fresh and welcoming which is exactly how I want my home to feel.
