WHY CHOOSE
DESIGN EYEWEAR

Design Eyewear is an independently owned boutique optometry practice in the Adelaide CBD specialising in distinctive frame lines. We don’t just want to sell people glasses, we want to find the frame that expresses their unique style and personality.

We bring an unparalleled eyewear experience to our patients through distinctive frame lines, the highest innovation of lenses and superb personal service that exceeds expectations.

We connect with our patients. We know them by name (Clare), we know where they took their last holiday (Paris), and we know their perfect frame before they do (Kirk & Kirk Model Bridget in Garnet).

Book Appointment

YOUR PATH TO THE PERFECT SPECTACLES

1. YOUR COMPREHENSIVE
EYE EXAMINATION

Design Eyewear schedules longer than average consultation times so we are able to spend time getting to know our patients, address their needs and have ample time to conduct a thorough eye examination using the latest technology.

2. CHOOSE YOUR FRAME

Discover the perfect frame that reflects your unique style. You can even design a custom frame with our Adelaide-based eyewear designer. Want a green frame to compliment your favourite green jacket? Consider it done. True story—it'll look fabulous.

3. CUSTOMISE YOUR LENSES

We use the Rodenstock ImpressionIST®, which is a state-of-the-art device revolutionising how eyeglass lenses are prescribed and fitted. This technology offers unparalleled precision in measuring your eyes and crafting lenses tailored to your vision needs.

MEET YOUR OPTOMETRISTS

Husband and wife team, Stuart and Rachel, purchased Design Eyewear from Ken Chenery in 2017. Ken consulted up until his retirement in 2024 after 50 years of practicing optometry. Stuart and Rachel are proud to continue the vision that Ken had started with Design Eyewear.

Owner & Optometrist
Originally from the Adelaide Hills, Stuart has been a practising optometrist for 23 years. His interest in science compelled him to begin his studies in botany and zoology at the University of Adelaide, where he completed a Bachelor of Science degree. Finding himself drawn to the field of optometry, he went to Brisbane to study at Queensland University of Technology, graduating in 2001. He has practised in both Australia and Canada. Outside of work, you can find Stuart spending time with his wife Rachel and their children, enjoying a run, playing tennis and honing his photography skills.

Optometrist
A Canadian by origin, Rachel began her optometry education at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, where she completed an Honours Science degree. She moved to Australia to continue her studies, attending the Victorian College of Optometry at the University of Melbourne. She graduated the optometry program in 2002, and has practised in Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Rachel Holden met her husband Stuart when they worked together at the same optometry practice in Adelaide. She moonlights as a stand-up comedian and comedy writer and has appeared in televised comedy events in both Australia and Canada, and has won numerous awards for her comedic talents.

YOUR EYE EXAMINATION

Optometry is our main focus, and the health of your eyes is our priority. We book 40-minute appointment times to ensure you don’t feel rushed, and so we can get to know you and discuss any concerns or questions you have.

A full health check of the eyes, including screening for cataract, glaucoma, macular disease and diabetic eye disease
Where indicated digital retinal photography, optical coherence tomography and field screening for peripheral vision assessment, creating permanent baseline records
Three way determination of the prescription for glasses if needed
Comprehensive advice on management of any disorders found, including the best lens choice for your prescription
Contact lens checks, prescribing, teaching and counselling, and supply by trial and sale
Referral to ophthalmology services where indicated, and co-management of some diseases when appropriate