Hi, I'm Bryn – a designer, developer and digital all-rounder based in Nelson, New Zealand. I'm a trained designer with over 25 years of experience, combining creative thinking with extensive technical skills to take ideas from initial concept through to finished product.
I work directly with businesses, agencies and organisations throughout New Zealand and overseas. No middlemen, no unnecessary complexity – just experienced, hands-on design and development.
Web Design & Development
Most of my client work involves designing, building, improving and maintaining websites and digital tools. I specialise in Shopify and SilverStripe, working across everything from complete website builds and eCommerce stores to custom functionality, integrations, performance improvements and ongoing technical maintenance.
I work with a range of businesses and agencies, including UpShift in Nelson and Utility in Wellington, where I hold the role of Development & Design Lead. My work with UpShift predominantly involves developing and maintaining Shopify stores for their clients. I also work directly with my own clients, helping with new websites, ongoing development, hosting, technical issues and the occasional tricky problem that needs solving.
My background covers both design and development, which means I'm equally comfortable thinking about how something looks, how people use it and how it works behind the scenes. I enjoy being involved in the entire process rather than focusing on just one part of a project.
Accessibility & Inclusive Design
I'm also a co-founder of Tactile, a business focused on making digital and physical environments more accessible.
Our work has two main areas: website accessibility reviews and 3D printed tactile maps. We help businesses identify and resolve accessibility barriers on their websites, combining technical testing with lived experience from blind and visually impaired users.
We also design and produce tactile maps that help people understand and navigate physical spaces through touch. This brings together my interests in design, 3D modelling and printing with the challenge of making environments more inclusive.
It's a rewarding collaboration that combines practical problem-solving, technology and thoughtful design to make things more accessible for everyone.
Racing Sparrow & 3D Design
Alongside my client work, I run Racing Sparrow, a business designing and selling digital plans and 3D printable radio-controlled sailboats to customers around the world.
Racing Sparrow brings together many of my interests – design, engineering, 3D modelling, product development, eCommerce and building things. I design, develop and test the boats myself, while also managing the websites, online store, customer support and digital sales.
I've also worked on smaller 3D design and printing projects for local architects and businesses.
Running my own eCommerce business gives me a useful perspective on the challenges my clients face, from website usability and customer experience to marketing, automation and online sales. It's also a great opportunity to experiment with ideas and technologies in a real business environment.
AI & Modern Development
AI has become an integral part of how I work. I use it extensively for development, problem-solving, research and exploring new ideas.
Combined with decades of practical experience, it's allowing me to take on a broader range of projects, work more efficiently and solve problems that would previously have taken considerably more time.
I find this an exciting time to be working in design and technology. The possibilities are expanding rapidly, and I'm enjoying finding new ways to combine creativity, experience and emerging technologies.
A Little More About Me
I was a founding member of the New Zealand band Eb & Sparrow. We recorded four studio albums and toured the country throughout the 2010s. Our music still gets the occasional play on Radio New Zealand. Good times!
Music, design, sailing and making things have always been a big part of my life, and fortunately my work often brings a few of those interests together.
Let's Work Together
If you're looking for an experienced Shopify or SilverStripe developer, need help with a custom web project, or want practical advice on improving an existing website, I'd be happy to have a conversation.
I enjoy solving problems, building useful things and working directly with people to get projects across the line.
Experience - Timeline
Freelance/Contract Web Design & Development
SilverStripe, Shopify, Design, Development, User Experience, Javascript, Accessibility
Owner - RacingSparrow Radio Control Yachts. Building guide book, 3D printed model yachts.
CAD, 3D Printing, Yacht Design, Branding, Global eCommerce, Web Design, Customer Engagement.
