How do you combine design and function?
A lot of it is common sense, especially with selecting materials that are going to suit the client. I mean, a white linen sofa looks great when it’s new, but it’s not going to look like that for long, especially if it’s in a family’s home with young children. So it would obviously be better to select a fabric that will be serviceable and easy to clean.
It’s important for rooms to have a flow which comes back to furniture proportion and layout, and generally people love the idea of extra storage so I often have that in my mind when I’m selecting furniture or designing a space. Most people want to live in a home that is easily lived in and offers a level of comfort. I like my interiors to feel inviting, like you wouldn’t feel scared to sit down and have a drink in there. I like the balance of practical and pretty.
What is your favourite book/magazine on design? How about your favourite Instagram accounts?
I love Veranda and Elle Decor magazines. I have quite a collection of beautiful interior books that I love and draw inspiration from. My two newest books are ”Australian Designers at Home“ by Jenny Rose-Innes and ”Inspired Design“ by Jennifer Boles. I love reading about other interior designers that have gone before me and what their stories are. There is something comforting to be able to read their thoughts and understand where they are coming from on a professional level, sharing the same career.
As for Instagram – there are so many and I’m going to miss so many important ones, but some of the accounts I love following are: Mallory Mathison Inc, Meredith Ellis, Brunchwig & Fils, Schmacher, Veranda Mag, Atlanta Homes Mag, Elizabeth M Lawrence, Nick Olsen, Charish Co, Mark D Sikes, John Rosselli, Steve Cordony, Scout and Nimble, Phoebe Howard, Gracie Studio, Colefax and Fowler & Tamsin Johnson.