ABOUT US
BALCONIQUE, born from a serendipitous encounter between a simple idea and a passionate expert.
The Idea Behind Balconique:
How and Why It Started
BALCONIQUE, born from a serendipitous encounter between a simple idea and a passionate expert.
Badr Shah, one of our founders, had long dreamed of creatively transforming his balcony into a vibrant space but felt uncertain about where to begin. He struggled with questions about design, materials, and execution, often sidelining his vision.
Everything changed when Badr met Monika Olson at a networking event. Intrigued by her passion for design and her extensive experience in spatial design, landscape design and horticulture—where she can name around 1,500 plants by heart—Badr was inspired. Monika’s commitment to supporting local vendors and using sustainable, hand-crafted materials resonated deeply with him.
The next day, unable to contain his excitement, Badr shared his idea with Monika. She recognized its uniqueness and potential, especially considering the countless townhouses, apartment buildings, corporate spaces, and retirement villages in New Zealand with underutilized balconies. After a few discussions, Badr and Monika decided to join forces, giving birth to BALCONIQUE—the first company in New Zealand dedicated to pioneering balcony and rooftop garden design and installations.
Together, they share a vision of transforming empty balconies and rooftop gardens into elegant, joyful spaces within homes and offices. Their goal is to lead this innovative idea into a successful business.
Our Process
Discovery > Proposal > Implement
Step 1: Consultation
We begin with a discovery meeting to understand your requirements, size and timeline for your project and give you a cost involved.
Step 2: The Design Process
Monika will work with you to produce a 2D design and use AI-enhanced 3D visualizations, allow you to see your design, look and feel. This proposal will include timelines and set expectations as well as cost for supply and installation. Ensuring all your boxes are ticked and dreams are met.
Step 3: Supply & Installation
We source, supply and install all your new balcony or rooftop garden elements according to the design and budget involved.
Monika Olson
Co-Founder / Chief Designer
If you were to envision a face representing a wealth of experience in outdoor design, spatial design, landscape design and horticulture, it would undoubtedly be Monika, affectionately known as Mons. With over 20 years of experience, she is the founder of Monika Olson Design and brings extensive expertise in landscape design and plant selection, spatial design, and outdoor styling, for both residential and commercial spaces. She also has professional credentials in interior design, studying this in South Africa in 2006.
Mons is passionate about transforming ordinary balconies and rooftop gardens into extraordinary living environments—spaces that extend your home, reflect your personality, and offer moments of peace, wellness, and joy. She has a special affinity for supporting local artists, crafters, vendors, especially using sustainable materials. And with cultural themes.
Coming from a family of architects, graphic designers, engineers, and artists, Mons possesses a natural flair for design.
Her motto is to live consciously, aligning her thoughts and actions with a commitment to improvement and growth. She strives to create a harmonious work-life balance that allows her to live beautifully and gracefully, drawing inspiration from her surroundings to foster a peaceful environment.
Mons finds excitement in collaboration, appreciating the diverse personalities and cultural perspectives that each individual brings to the table. She believes that together, we can create something truly unique and impactful.
On a personal front, Mons balances a full-time role as a dedicated mother to her two lovely children, Taj, who is 16, and Blake, who is 12. Known for her warm and inviting personality, she exudes positive energy that uplifts those around her.
Badr Shah
Co-Founder / Marketing & Sales
Badr Shah is a dreamer, often playfully called out by his teachers to stop dreaming and focus on his studies. With a wealth of experience in tech and IT sales, he is passionate about all aspects of marketing and sales. Badr is dedicated to creating win-win solutions, ensuring that everyone benefits and no one is left behind. Above all, he thrives on solving business challenges with innovative technology.
An avid football fan, Badr played the sport during his school and university days and has a love for sports in general. He also enjoyed a stint as a stage actor, performing in both English and Hindi plays in Bangalore.
Badr is happily married to his beautiful wife, Sidra, and they have two children: Azaan, who is 15, and Erum, who is 6. He cherishes spending quality time with his family while also valuing his moments of personal time.
