1. As an interior designer, what keeps you inspired to create fresh concepts on a regular basis?
Design is never about me, it’s about the people I am creating a space for so I would say my main source of inspiration is definitely my clients and/or their customers. I love learning about who they are, how they live, what interests them, what excites them and what motivates them. Once I know who they are a little better, the direction becomes much clearer to build a design concept around. Aesthetically, I find inspiration all over, from music to soap bubbles when I am washing the dishes – it is hard to pin down anything specific, really, as there’s so much I like about the world around me.
2. Describe your work in three words.
Versatile – Each project somehow seems to be drastically different from the next and I love it that way! I have worked on everything from a doggy day care to an LQBTQ+ bar to a chic minimalistic farm house from the ground up.
Playful – Whether through colour, texture, lighting or small detailing, I love seeing how we can bring in one or two elements into the design that are a little more whimsical, yet specifically tailored for my clients’ personality.
Empathic – As mentioned prior, design to me is all about the people using the space, so its super important for me to be able to shift my perspective to create a successful end result for my clients.
3. Which interior design trends are you most looking forward to this year and which ones are you not?
I have never been great at keeping up with trends as each of my projects are so specific, but I have been seeing more bold colour being used recently, as well as bold pattern specifically in stonework – both of which for me are always a yes because I am naturally drawn to “more is more”. Furniture design seems to be migrating to more organic shapes as well. Loving all of what I am seeing, as long as it’s executed in a unique way – I have a problem with trends in general when they are not properly considered or utilised with purpose as everything quickly starts looking the same and gets boring quite quickly.
4. If you were not in interior design, what do you think you would be doing?
I have always wanted to open a florist/ botanical studio actually – I LOVE flowers and plants and playing with how they look together. My home is always filled with greenery and either fresh or dry flowers, they just bring me SO much joy.
5. Any motivational words for those that want to make a career from interior design but don't know where to start?
Do your research! People often mistake interior design for interior decorating. Design is full-blown interior architecture and required a 3-4 year degree/ diploma. It’s technical and you’ll need to be able to read and create drawings, understand how lighting, plumbing, load bearing and electrical services work, alongside a wide knowledge of building and finishing materials and techniques. Styling, decorating and furnishing forms only part of the design process so it’s important to understand the difference before you decide which one to study. If you have a natural creative flare and are good with budgets and project coordination you may need to focus on interior design or architecture, but you will need academic training to form your career baseline. Knowledge is power!
