Episodes
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What actually keeps an architecture business alive past the first project?
Most people judge an architecture firm by the finished home. The clean lines, the light-filled kitchen, the project that lands on Instagram. Behind that image sits a business built on budget conversations, team trust, and a reputation that took years to earn.
In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Chris Trotta, founder of Trotter Architecture, to talk about the parts of running a design business that rarely make it into a portfolio. We cover his path from working inside large firms to launching his own practice during Covid, why he built a board of advisors with zero designers on it, and why he walked away from wanting to be seen as difficult in the industry.
We also get into his 85% rule for avoiding perfectionism, why he still sketches every project by hand before touching a computer, and what success looks like for him now that the business runs itself day to day.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
➡️ Why relationships, service, and trust matter more than design skill long term
➡️ How he handles honest budget conversations with clients
➡️ Why he built a personal board of advisors with no designers or architects on it
➡️ How giving up creative control helped him build a stronger team
➡️ Why protecting his reputation matters more than winning every argument on site
➡️ How his confidence in front of the camera grew over the past year
➡️ Why every project at Trotter Architecture starts with a hand sketch, not a screen
➡️ His 85% rule for finishing work without over-laboring the last details
➡️ What success looks like for him personally and professionally right now
One takeaway from this conversation is Chris's view that architects are hired for temperament and patience, not just a beautiful portfolio. Clients spend years working alongside their architect. That relationship carries more weight than any single render.
If you run a creative business or work with clients on long-term projects, this episode gives you a direct look at what holds a design practice together once the pretty pictures are done.
Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend, colleague, or fellow design enthusiast, and follow the podcast for more conversations on the people, processes, and passion behind great design.
Follow Chris Trotta:
https://www.trottaarchitecture.com/studio
https://www.instagram.com/trotta_architecture/
https://www.instagram.com/christrotta/
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
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Chapters
00:00 - Why Relationships Matter More Than Design
01:25 - Meet Architect Chris Trotter
02:34 - From Big Firms to Starting His Own Practice
05:24 - Why Launching an Architecture Business During COVID Worked
08:06 - Designing Homes as Investments, Not Just Beautiful Spaces
11:23 - Budget Conversations Every Architect Should Have
14:26 - The Truth About Running a Design Business
16:35 - Building a Team Without Micromanaging
22:17 - Why Client Experience Is More Important Than Great Design26:15 - The Business Advice Every Creative Needs
28:02 - The Power of Reputation, Trust & Collaboration
39:17 - Why Architects Need to Show Up on Social Media
48:04 - The 85% Rule That Makes Better Business Decisions
Keywords
Trotter Architecture
Chris Trotta
architecture business podcast
running a design firm
architecture leadership
client budget conversation
architecture team management
design industry reputation
Behind the Design podcast
Camilla Ingall
starting an architecture practice
architect branding
hand sketching in architecture
design intent
sustainable creative business
architecture and personal branding
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What does an interior stylist actually do?
It's a role that most people only notice in the final image. The beautifully photographed home, the perfectly layered living room, or the project that lands in a magazine. But behind those images is a creative process that most people never see.
In this episode of “Behind The Design”, I sit down with interior stylist Bea Lambos to talk about the world of styling, photography, and visual storytelling. We discuss what happens before a project is photographed, how stylists work alongside photographers and designers, and why styling is about much more than placing beautiful objects in a room.
We also explore the challenge many homeowners face when trying to define their style, and Bea shares a simple piece of advice that can make the process feel far less overwhelming.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
➡️ Why Bea transitioned from interior design into styling
➡️ What really happens on a photoshoot day
➡️ The relationship between stylists, photographers, and designers
➡️ How styling helps tell the story of a project
➡️ The difference between styling for everyday living and styling for photography
➡️ Why some of the best creative outcomes come from flexible briefs
➡️ The role emotion plays in creating memorable spaces
➡️ How to discover your personal style by identifying what you don't like
➡️ Common misconceptions about interior photography and publication shoots
➡️ Why great styling often goes unnoticed when it's done well
One of my favourite insights from this conversation is Bea's belief that finding your style doesn't always start with what you love. Sometimes it starts with understanding what you don't.
If you've ever looked at a finished project and wondered how it all comes together, this episode offers a great behind-the-scenes look at one of the most important and least understood parts of the design process.
Enjoyed this episode? Feel free to share it with a friend, colleague, or fellow design enthusiast, and don't forget to follow the podcast for more conversations exploring the people, processes, and passion behind great design.
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Follow Bea Lambos:IG - https://www.instagram.com/beaandcostyle/Website - https://beaandcostyle.comPinterest - https://au.pinterest.com/Beaandcostyle/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bea-lambos-622aa7143/Substack - https://substack.com/@bealambos1
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
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Chapters
00:00 - Why Finding Your Style Starts With What You Don't Like
03:09 - Why Bea Chose Interior Styling Over Interior Design
05:20 - The Reality of Styling for Professional Photoshoots
08:49 - What Happens Before an Interior Photography Shoot?
09:35 - How Long Does It Take to Style a Home for Photography?
10:32 - The Hidden Tricks Behind Magazine-Worthy Interiors
14:51 - What Most People Get Wrong About Interior Styling
15:17 - Styling to the Frame: How Great Interior Photos Are Created
17:28 - Professional Styling vs Everyday Living
18:38 - How Styling Shapes the Story of a Space
19:44 - Inside the Stylist and Photographer Partnership
28:35 - Building Confidence in Your Personal Design Style
51:35 - Will AI Change the Future of Interior Styling?
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Keywords
interior styling
interior stylist
home styling tips
interior photography
design photography
magazine worthy homes
interior design process
styling for photoshoots
architectural photography
how to find your design style
interior design inspiration
home decorating tips
design storytelling
interior design podcast
Bea Lambos
Camilla Ingall
Behind the Design podcast
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Missing episodes?
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A beautiful home rarely tells the full story.
Behind every completed project is a team navigating site constraints, heritage restrictions, unforeseen challenges, client expectations, and hundreds of decisions that never make it into the final photographs.
In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Jack Williams, founder of JW Projects, to unpack the realities of residential construction in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
From heritage terraces in Paddington and Surry Hills to architecturally designed homes overlooking Sydney Harbour, Jack shares what it takes to bring ambitious design visions to life while managing the practical challenges that come with construction.
Together, we explore the relationship between builders and designers, the importance of communication throughout a project, and why some of the biggest decisions happen long before the finishes are installed.
In this episode:
• The unique challenges of building in Sydney's eastern suburbs
• Why heritage renovations require a different approach to new builds
• What builders uncover once demolition begins
• Managing expectations when site conditions change
• The role communication plays in successful projects
• Building strong relationships between designers, architects and builders
• Growing a construction business while maintaining quality
• Lessons learned from challenging projects and unexpected setbacks
• The realities of leading a team across multiple active sites
• What clients rarely see behind a finished home
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the podcast and share it with a fellow designer, builder, architect or industry professional.
Follow Jack Williams and JW Projects
https://www.instagram.com/jackwill/
https://www.instagram.com/jackwill/
https://www.jwprojects.com.au/
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
CHAPTERS
02:21 - How Jack Williams Became a High-End Residential Builder
05:03 - Building in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs: Challenges & Opportunities
05:53 - Heritage Home Renovations: What Homeowners Need to Know
06:52 - Hidden Problems Found During Home Renovations
08:08 - Managing Renovation Budgets, Variations & Client Expectations
09:02 - Builder vs Interior Designer: Creating Successful Projects Together
11:33 - What Instagram Doesn’t Show About Luxury Home Construction
13:01 - Growing a Construction Business and Building the Right Team
15:23 - A Day in the Life of a Luxury Home Builder
17:03 - Costly Construction Mistakes and Lessons From the Job Site
20:51 - Dealing With Neighbours, Council Approvals & Tight Building Sites
27:06 - Future Trends in Luxury Home Building, Design & Development
Keywords
luxury home builder
luxury home construction
Sydney luxury homes
Sydney eastern suburbs builde
rhigh end home builder
residential builder Sydney
heritage home renovation
home renovation Sydney
luxury home renovation
custom home builder
architectural homes Sydney
residential construction
construction project management
building a luxury home
renovation builder Sydney
heritage house renovation
home building challenges
high end residential construction
builder and interior designer collaboration
luxury property development
custom home construction
Sydney renovation specialist
renovation budget planning
construction industry insights
building heritage homes
luxury home design and build
eastern suburbs construction
residential renovation expert
construction business owner
behind the scenes construction
property renovation tips
luxury home building process
architectural renovation
Sydney builders
construction podcast
home renovation podcast
interior design and construction
building in Sydney
luxury renovation projects
property development Sydney
high end renovation builder
custom luxury homes
construction leadership
home building expert
renovation project management
Sydney architecture and design
residential building contractor
luxury property renovation
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Finished homes, polished brands, and resolved details are what we usually see. What’s less visible is the pressure underneath: the hard decisions, constant judgment calls, and the reality of sustaining growth.
James McCarthy knows that reality well.
In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with James McCarthy, co-founder of GatherCo, a trade-only supplier in the architecture and interiors industry known for its relationship-led approach, adaptability, and willingness to do things differently.
What began as a small business trying to stay afloat has grown into a trusted supplier working with architects, designers, and builders across Australia. But this conversation is less about polished success and more about what sits behind long-term growth.
We talk about the early pressure to say yes to everything, why boundaries become essential as a business matures, and the mindset shift that comes with realising not all growth is good growth.
We also explore sustainable scaling, how partnerships evolve, and why understanding your lane is one of the most important lessons for founders.
In this episode, we also covered this:
— Why saying yes to every opportunity early in business eventually becomes unsustainable
— The lesson that completely changed James’ perspective on business challenges and competition
— How Gather Co built trust with architects and designers through honesty and long-term thinking
— Why the business chose not to follow the traditional showroom model and what happened instead
— The importance of boundaries, systems, and internal accountability as a team grows
— What founders often misunderstand about scaling a product-based business
— How small businesses can use adaptability and speed as competitive advantages
— The reality of managing client expectations, timelines, and decision fatigue within the design industry
— Why relationships remain at the centre of everything Gather Co does
— The emotional side of entrepreneurship and the importance of remembering why you started
If you enjoyed this episode, follow Behind the Design for more conversations unpacking the people, processes, and realities behind the design industry.
Follow James McCarthy and GatherCo
https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-mccarthy-90a215140/
https://www.gatherco.com.au/
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
Chapters
03:02 — Why Gather Co Built a Trade-Only Supply Business
06:00 — The Importance of Honesty & Long-Term Relationships
07:12 — Fighting to Survive: The Early “Say Yes to Everything” Mentality
10:30 — Why Strong Teams Matter More Than Founders Doing Everything
12:27 — Learning to Love the Journey of Building a Business
15:50 — The Story That Changed How Gather Co Worked With Clients
20:12 — Why Boundaries & Policies Are Essential for Growth
23:47 — Balancing Creativity, Timelines & Commercial Reality
25:07 — Why Gather Co Chose Digital Over a Physical Showroom
29:48 — Creating a Better Sample Process for Designers & Architects
34:18 — The Mindset Shift That Turned Problems Into Competitive Advantages
45:45 — Competition, Ego & the Fear That Still Drives Business Growth
Keywords
Gather Co
James McCarthy Gather Co
trade supply business
scaling a supply business
business growth mindset
entrepreneurship podcast
design industry podcast
interior design business
architecture and design industry
supplier relationships in business
business lessons for entrepreneurs
creative business growth
building a trade-only business
online showroom strategy
digital-first business model
natural stone supplier
trade-only supplier Australia
business operations and systems
founder mindset
scaling a creative business
business leadership lessons
long-term client relationships
architecture supplier insights
design and construction podcast
entrepreneurship in construction
growing a product-based business
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Colour gets the attention, but it is rarely where the real work happens.
Mariah Burton built Folk Studio on something quieter than a signature aesthetic, a belief that the person living in the space is always the starting point and that the brief is never really the Pinterest board, the budget, or the timeline. It is the human being sitting across from you at that first meeting, and everything that flows from understanding them well enough to design something that genuinely feels like theirs.
In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Mariah Burton, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Folk Studio, a Sydney-based interior design practice recognised for its layered, expressive interiors and a client experience that feels as considered as the design itself.
Eight years in, Folk is turning away more work than it takes on, the projects are more varied, the team is bigger, and yet the studio still feels unmistakably like Mariah. This conversation is about how that happens, how you build something that continues to grow without losing the thing that made it worth building in the first place.
In this episode, we also covered this:
• What it looks like to back yourself when nothing is guaranteed and you are building something from scratch with no real roadmap
• How a casual conversation with a stranger became the project that changed everything for Folk Studio
• Why the best design decisions are not always the most obvious ones, and how knowing when to stop is its own kind of skill
• What staying true to yourself looks like when clients, budgets and timelines are all pulling in different directions
• How to protect the thing that makes your work yours, even as your team grows and more people are involved
• The quiet work that happens before a client ever gets on a call with you and why that part matters just as much as the design
• What nobody tells you about the emotional side of running a creative business and how to find your footing when it gets heavy.
If you enjoyed this episode, follow Behind the Design for more conversations unpacking the people, processes, and ideas shaping the design industry.
Follow Mariah Burton and Folk Studio
https://www.instagram.com/mariah.burton_/
https://au.linkedin.com/in/mariah-burton-281165ab
https://www.folkstudiodesign.com/
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
Chapters
02:20 - How Childhood & Creativity Shaped Mariah Burton’s Design Style
04:42 - The Early Career Lessons That Built Folk Studio’s Culture
06:28 - Landing Major Interior Design Projects in the Early Days
07:36 - Working 3 Jobs While Launching a Design Business
09:22 - The Confidence to Pivot a Client’s Vision Completely
10:24 - Building a Successful Interior Design Studio Without Pressure
11:37 - Creative Restraint, Color & Designing Functional Spaces
15:30 - Why Folk Studio Prioritizes People Over Trends
20:41 - How Folk Studio Chooses the Right Design Clients
27:31 - The Reality Behind Interior Design Photoshoots & Styling
31:56 - Balancing Business, Creativity & Mental Wellbeing as a Designer
39:10 - The Biggest Lessons From 8 Years Running Folk Studio
Keywords
interior design studio Sydney
folk studio interior design
starting an interior design busines
show to build a design brand
interior design client process
color in interior design
residential interior design Australia
behind the scenes interior design
design studio philosophy
timeless interior design
creative restraint in design
how to start an interior design studio young
saying no to clients as a designer
interior design business
starting a design studio
interior designer tips
design studio growth
client selection design
creative business advice
interior design proces
show to build a design brand
design studio success
creative entrepreneurship
interior design career
design philosophy
working with clients design
design business lessons
folk studio mariah burton
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Most material decisions are still driven by aesthetics. But the real shift is happening in safety, performance, and sustainability, the layers a renovator or end user often doesn’t see, and rarely gets guided through. That’s the conversation missing across the broader industry.
In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Erin Payne from Cosentino to explore how one of the world’s leading surface manufacturers is reshaping the future of architecture and interior design.
From engineered stone to zero silica innovation, this is not just a conversation about benchtops. It is a conversation about responsibility. How materials are evolving, how decisions are made, and what designers need to understand to stay relevant in a rapidly shifting industry.With over 20 years as an interior designer before moving into the supply side, Erin brings a perspective most conversations miss. She understands both the creative intent and the commercial reality, and where they often do not align.
In this episode, we also covered this:
• Why “all stone is the same” is one of the biggest misconceptions in design
• The real difference between engineered, natural, and ultra-compact surfaces
• Zero silica and why this shift matters globally, not just in Australia
• How performance is becoming as critical as aesthetics
• What true sustainability looks like at a manufacturing level
• The role designers play in educating clients and where it often breaks down
• Where surface design is heading next and what to pay attention to
If you enjoyed this episode, follow Behind the Design for more conversations unpacking the people, processes, and ideas shaping the design industry.
Follow Erin Payne and Cosentino
https://www.instagram.com/erin_payne_design/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-payne-a99783121/
https://www.cosentino.com/en-au
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
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From chasing design milestones to discovering what truly makes work meaningful, this episode takes you behind the scenes of large-scale hospitality design.
In this episode of Behind the Design Podcast, I chat with Nasim Köerting, Design Director at Merivale, about the realities of leading some of Australia’s most recognised hospitality projects. From her early career in London to managing complex, high-profile designs today, Nasim shares what it really takes to succeed at this level.
We also explore a turning point in her career: the moment she realized that achieving awards and hitting milestones brought only brief excitement. What matters most is the experience of the process: seeing her team thrive, collaborating effectively, and watching people genuinely enjoy the spaces she creates.
For Nasim, the real reward is the human impact of design, not the accolades and keeping creativity and collaboration enjoyable.
This conversation goes beyond the finished product and dives into the choices, pressures, and mindset behind exceptional design. From balancing creativity with leadership to designing environments that feel thoughtful and inclusive, this is an honest look at what happens behind the scenes.
Topics covered in this conversation:
• Nasim’s journey from London to Design Director at Merivale
• Managing the responsibility and pressures of large-scale design
• Leading teams while staying creatively involved
• Moving past the fleeting thrill of milestones to find lasting fulfillment
• How collaboration enhances design outcomes
• Designing spaces that feel welcoming and considered
• The subtle details that make a space memorable
If you want insight into what makes great design more than just a pretty photo, this conversation offers a candid view behind the scenes.
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe for more conversations that go beyond aesthetics and into the real thinking behind design.
Follow Nasim Köerting and Merivale
https://www.instagram.com/nasimkoerting/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nasim-k%C3%B6erting-78511a4a/
https://www.instagram.com/merivale/
https://merivale.com/
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
Chapters
01:07 – Meet Nassim: Design Director Behind Merivale’s Iconic Spaces
02:09 – From Sydney to London: Building a Global Interior Design Career
03:51 – Landing a Dream Role at Merivale (Hospitality Design Insights)
04:46 – Leading Creative Teams in High-End Hospitality Projects
07:30 – Why Hospitality Design is About Experience, Not Just Aesthetics
10:21 – The Real Design Process: Collaboration, Ideas & Innovation
13:26 – Designing with Old Buildings: Creating “Lived-In” Spaces
15:12 – Diversity & Inclusion in Interior Design (Why It Matters)
18:47 – Small Design Details
27:32 – Redefining Success: Beyond Awards & Recognition in Design
32:14 – The Future of Design
Keywords
Merivale
hospitality design
interior design podcast
interior design process
design leadership
creative careers
interior designer interview
design director
hospitality interiors
commercial interior design
design inspiration
interior design career
hospitality design process
managing creative teams
design collaboration
guest experience design
experiential design
human-centered design
inclusive design
adaptive reuse design
imposter syndrome creatives
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“Design doesn’t need to please everyone. Designers like McQueen, Schiaparelli, and Margiela showed me that discomfort, exaggeration, and vulnerability aren’t flaws—they’re tools.”
In this episode of Behind the Design, I talk with Nelli Hegi, founder and creative director of Hegi Design House, about creating furniture that’s more than functional, it tells a story. Nelli blends furniture, art, fashion, and architecture into bold pieces meant to spark emotion and conversation.
We explore her journey of finding her voice, why she stopped chasing validation, and the lessons haute couture taught her about creativity and risk.
As Nelli says, “Evolution isn't a lack of direction, it's part of finding your voice.”
What You learn in this episode:
→ Finding and trusting your creative voice
→ Drawing inspiration from fashion, art, and couture
→ Making furniture that’s emotional and story-driven
→ Balancing craft, collaboration, and sustainable business
→ Connecting with clients through storytelling
For anyone interested in expressive, personal design, this episode is full of insights on creating work that truly reflects who you are.
Follow Nelli Hegi: https://www.instagram.com/hegi_designhouse/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelli-hegi-67704765/
https://hegidesignhouse.com/
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
Chapters
02:00 – Signature Style vs Evolution
04:00 – Childhood & Personal Experiences
07:00 – Craftsmanship & Studio Life
10:00 – Haute Couture Inspiration
13:00 – Overcoming Self-Doubt & Industry Pressure
16:00 – Creating Emotional Connections Through Furniture
18:00 – Storytelling & Client Interaction
20:00 – Dreams, Inspiration & New Collections
Keywords
interior design podcast
furniture design inspiration
how to find your design style
creative confidence design
design career advice
how to get featured in design magazines
design storytelling
art vs commercial design
building a design brand
creative entrepreneurship
behind the design podcast
Camilla Ingall podcast
Nelli Hegi Authentic Design
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From kitchen joinery to high-end design, this is what it takes to turn craft into a sustainable business.
In this episode of Behind the Design Podcast, I sit down with furniture maker Tim Noone, founder of Tim Noone Furniture, to talk about his journey from kitchen joinery to creating high-end custom furniture.
He shares the challenges of crafting beautiful pieces while keeping a business sustainable, and how he eventually realized the limits of purely bespoke work. That realization led him to develop a collection that sits between fully custom pieces and high-end retail.
We also dive into Tim’s design philosophy and why he believes furniture should enhance a space rather than dominate it. He opens up about collaborating with interior designers, practicing restraint in design, and redefining what success really looks like after years in the industry.
For Tim, it is less about scale and more about balancing creative satisfaction, family life, and long-term sustainability.
Topics covered in this conversation:
His journey from kitchen joinery to high-end bespoke furnitureThe challenges of running a creative business that lastsHow he overcame the growth limits of fully custom furnitureWhy furniture should support architecture and interiorsRedefining success for creativity, family, and sustainabilityIf you love design, craftsmanship, or want a peek behind the scenes of a creative business, this conversation is full of insight and inspiration.
Follow Tim Noone Business Instagram
:https://www.instagram.com/tim_noone_furnituredesign/
:https://www.instagram.com/thecollectionbytimnoone/
Business Website: https://timnoone.com/
Chapters
01:16 - Meet Furniture Maker Tim Noone
03:05 - From Kitchen Joinery to Bespoke Furniture
06:12 - Why Furniture Should Serve the Space
09:48 - The Sketching and Idea Development Process
13:20 - Working with Interior Designers on Custom Pieces
16:54 - The Realities of Running a Bespoke Furniture Business
21:07 - Why Scaling Custom Furniture Is So Difficult
25:32 - Moving from Bespoke Work to a Furniture Collection
29:18 - Designing Pieces That Quietly Elevate a Room
32:47 - Craft, Business, and Building a Sustainable Career
34:58 - Craftsmanship and Refinement
Keywords
Joinery process
Custom furniture design
Residential cabinetry
Sustainable furniture
Interior design collaboration
Craftsmanship tips
Kitchen design ideas
Australian joinery
Designer-client collaboration
Furniture materials and finishes
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Building a design studio is often celebrated as creative freedom, yet many founders discover that without boundaries, success can start to feel unsustainable.
In this episode, I sat down with Kate Lawrence, founder of Kate Lawrence Interiors and bedding brand Sleep Ins, to unpack the real story behind building and reshaping a creative business.
Kate speaks candidly about:
• Saying yes to everything, and what it cost her
• The reality of wearing every hat in the business
• Navigating complex relationships with architects and trades
• The emotional weight that comes with residential client work
• The final straw the led her to setting clear boundaries with work
• Why and how she started an ecommerce brand
If you are in your early years of practice, feeling stretched between creativity and capacity, or quietly questioning what success looks like for you now, this conversation will resonate.
Follow Kate Lawrence Interiors:
Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katelawrenceinteriors/Business Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katelawrenceinteriorsBusiness Website: https://www.katelawrenceinteriors.com.au/Business Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/katelawrenceproperty/
Follow Sleep Ins:
Website: https://www.sleepins.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573166985356
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sleepinsbedding
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sleep__ins
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sleep__ins
Chapters
02:35 - Starting an Interior Design Business and Saying Yes to Everything
04:20 - Wearing Every Hat and Hitting Burnout
06:05 - Client Relationships, Architects and Trade Dynamics
09:20 - Managing Design Changes Without Ego
10:30 - How Long It Takes to Be Profitable in Design
13:55 - Client Boundaries and Being “Too Available”
17:55 - The Emotional Weight of Residential Projects
19:40 - Pivoting to E-Commerce and Product-Based Business
25:55 - Redefining Success as Freedom, Not Just Income
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Behind every beautiful piece of joinery is a series of decisions, conversations, and mistakes no one ever seesIn this episode, I sat down with Luke from Élan Joinery and SKUPA, to talk through what really goes into custom joinery and furniture, beyond the finished photos. From early planning and material selection to timelines, teamwork, and trust, Luke shares how thoughtful joinery is built around the way people actually live in their homes.We explore how Élan Joinery has evolved from its commercial roots into residential and furniture work, what it’s like running a family business, and why collaboration between designers, builders, joiners, and clients is essential to achieving great outcomes. The conversation also touches on sustainability, sampling, and the emotional side of caring deeply about your work.This episode offers a grounded look behind the scenes of high-end joinery, helping clients better understand the value of process, craftsmanship, and clear communication, not just the final result.What You’ll Learn• Why custom joinery takes time and what happens before anything is built• How material selection and sampling influence durability, function, and feel• What designers and joiners consider when planning storage, layout, and workflow• Why collaboration plays such a big role in successful projects• What clients often underestimate about timelines, process, and craftsmanship• How good joinery supports the way you live, not just how a space looksFollow Elan Joinery House:https://www.elanc.comhttps://www.instagram.com/elan.joinery/?hl=enFollow SKUPAhttps://skupa.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/skupafurnitureFollow Unfolded:Website: https://www.unfolded.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_Chapters 01:30 – The Origins of Elan Joinery02:26 – A Family Business Today03:07 – Expanding from Joinery into Furniture04:06 – Scaling Operations & Warehousing04:29 – Growing a Team & Business 06:00 – Micromanaging vs Autonomy07:25 – Why Luke Created A Showroom09:03 – Instagram Growth vs Real Business Growth09:37 – The Reality Behind Project Photos11:45 – Winning Work Through Instagram13:18 – Sustainability in Joinery & Furniture16:45 – Craftsmanship Across Departments17:48 – Why Owning Mistakes Builds Trust19:38 – What Clients Don’t See in Kitchens21:29 – How the Business Has Evolved24:52 – Delivering the Vision, Not Designing It25:31 – Collaboration With Designers & Builders28:56 – Managing Difficult Conversations31:02 – Why Custom Work Takes TimeKeywordsJoinery processCustom furniture designResidential cabinetrySustainable furnitureInterior design collaborationCraftsmanship tipsKitchen design ideasAustralian joineryDesigner-client collaborationFurniture materials and finishes
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Trends come and go, but brands built on craft, instinct, and resilience tend to stick around.
In this episode of Behind the Design, host Camilla Ingall sits down with Charles Hinckfuss, founder and creative force behind MCM House.
Charlie shares the unpolished reality behind building one of Australia’s most recognisable furniture brands, from early days focused purely on survival, to growing a national retail presence grounded in craft, instinct, and energy.
This conversation goes beyond aesthetics to explore what actually sustains a creative business over decades: trusting your eye, understanding materials deeply, resisting trends, and building a team culture that feels supported and excited by the work.
You’ll hear how Charlie’s early hands-on making shaped MCM House’s DNA, why texture and material honesty matter more than polish, and how resilience, humour, and momentum play a bigger role in success than any rigid plan. This episode is a reminder that great design isn’t about chasing what’s new, it’s about creating work that still feels right years later.
What You learn in this episode:
* Timeless design outlives trends; Charlie explains why MCM House avoids trend-driven aesthetics in favour of materials and forms that age well over time.
* Energy drives execution; From retail spaces to team culture, energy and mood directly shape outcomes — creatively and commercially.
* Craft builds credibility; Early hands-on making gave Charlie a deep understanding of furniture that still informs MCM House today.
* Growth without identity loss is possible; Scaling doesn’t have to dilute creativity when the brand is anchored in clear values and instinct.
Follow MCM House:https://www.mcmhouse.com
Follow Unfolded:
Website: https://www.unfolded.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
00:00 – Introduction
02:13 – From Vintage Retail to Furniture Making: The Chuck & Bob Years
04:09 – Why Experience Matters More Than Products in Retail Design
07:25 – Taking Creative Risks and Backing Yourself
09:16 – Touching Every Part of the Business as a Founder
11:41 – Choosing Materials: Fabric, Timber, Texture & Honesty
13:00 – Trends vs Timeless Design
14:17 – Growing a Brand in Sydney’s Competitive Retail Market
17:01 – What Does MCM Actually Stand For?
17:59 – Retail Expansion vs International Growth
19:03 – Opening Stores Across Australia
20:13 – Building a Team and Letting Go of Control
21:51 – Energy, Mood & Leadership in Creative Teams
24:05 – The Reality of Working Seven Days a Week
25:02 – Expanding Into Commercial & Hospitality Design
27:12 – Using Movies and Culture as Creative Direction
30:00 – The Hardest Parts of Growing a Product-Based Brand
34:23 – One Piece of Advice for Anyone Starting a Design Brand
38:56 – Design Trends That Need to Go
40:21 – Final Reflections & Episode Takeaways
interior design podcast
MCM House
Australian furniture design
timeless interior design
design brand building
furniture design process
interior design trends vs timeless
creative business resilience
retail design experience
materials and texture in design
how to build a furniture brand in Australia
designing furniture without following trends
interior design brand storytelling
scaling a creative business without losing identity
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Design doesn’t need to shout to make an impact.
In this episode of Behind the Design, Camilla Ingall sits down with Daniel Boddam, founder of Daniel Boddam Studio, to unpack his philosophy of quiet living; a design approach rooted in restraint, calm, and deep respect for the Australian landscape.
Daniel shares his journey from architecture into furniture design, why he deliberately plays the long game, and how designing with nature (not trends) creates homes and objects that feel timeless, grounded, and human.
This conversation goes beyond aesthetics. It explores how spaces should feel, how materials age, and why true luxury today is found in simplicity, not excess.
In this episode, we explore:
What quiet luxury really means (and why it’s misunderstood)Designing architecture and furniture that belongs to the Australian landscapeThe role of texture, sound, touch, and material honesty in great designWhy restraint and patience lead to better creative outcomesBalancing architecture, furniture, business growth, and personal boundariesDesigning homes that age well; emotionally and materiallyIf you’re an architect, interior designer, builder, or design-aware homeowner, this episode will reframe how you think about calm, timeless design.
Follow Daniel Boddam:
Daniel Boddam Studio: https://danielboddam.com
Follow Unfolded:Website: https://www.unfolded.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
Behind the Design is hosted by Camilla Ingall, founder of Unfolded, an interior design and styling studio based in Sydney and the Central Coast.
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:00:32 - Welcome to Behind the Design
00:01:16 - Interview with Daniel Bottom
00:01:42 - Daniel's journey into design
00:03:16 - Transition from architecture to furniture design
00:06:00 - Challenges and changes in design journey
00:07:54 - Managing a design studio
00:11:06 - Balancing architecture and furniture design
00:12:32 - Quiet living philosophy
00:15:17 - Unfolded: Interior Design and Styling Studio
00:15:34 - Material Preferences and Sensory Design
00:17:43 - Reflecting on Past Experiences and Influences
00:19:15 - Client Briefs and Diversification
00:21:38 - Designing for the Australian Landscape
00:23:31 - Sculptural Simplicity in Design
00:24:32 - Balancing Function and Aesthetics
00:29:48 - Future Plans for the Studio
00:30:35 - Opening a Furniture Showroom and Expanding Overseas
00:31:26 - Reflections on the Pace of Work and Growth
00:32:46 - Managing Work-Life Balance
00:33:05 - Sustainability in Work and Avoiding Burnout
00:35:09 - Strangest Client Requests
00:36:34 - Closing Remarks
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In this episode, Camilla sits down with Stephanie Ferrara, founder of Laidback Lee Design, to explore how she built a growing design studio while renovating her own family home as an owner-builder and raising two young daughters. Steph shares how a Covid job cut sparked her leap into business, what she’s learned from flipping character homes, and how stepping onto site as a woman and now a builder has reshaped her confidence and communication.
Together, they unpack the realities of running a design studio in the thick of motherhood, delegation, renovation setbacks, and the mindset shifts that help Steph stay grounded through it all.
In this episode, we explore:
• How Steph launched Laidback Lee Design and grew it into a five-person studio
• The emotional and practical realities of motherhood while running a design practice
• What it’s really like to be an owner-builder and manage a full renovation
• The mindset shifts required to delegate, hire, and step back from doing everything yourself
• Timeless design vs personality-driven design and how Steph navigates both
• Why slowing down, working with your capacity, and trusting your path matters in business and in life
Whether you’re an interior designer, owner-builder, renovator, creative parent, or someone who loves hearing the unfiltered stories behind design careers, this conversation is grounding, generous, and full of the permission so many of us need.
Follow Laidback Lee Design:
Business Instagram: instagram.com/laidbacklee_design
Business Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laidbackleedesign
Reno diaries for personal project: https://www.instagram.com/finalmente_renodiary/
Follow Unfolded:
Website: https://www.unfolded.com.au/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
00:00:00 – Introduction & Background
00:01:30 – Introducing Stephanie Ferrara
00:02:21 – Stephanie’s Path to Founding Laidback Lee Design
00:04:06 – Starting a Business During Major Life Changes
00:07:09 – Stephanie’s Renovation & Flip Experiences
00:08:16 – Upcoming Renovation Plans
00:11:04 – Key Challenges in Project Management
00:12:05 – Building the Laidback Lee Design Team
00:13:49 – Delegation, Confidence & Scaling
00:15:19 – Stephanie’s Evolving Role
00:17:01 – Stepping Into the Builder Role
00:17:36 – White Card & Owner-Builder Certification
00:20:41 – Motivation & Women’s Empowerment
00:22:30 – Balancing Work, Life & Motherhood
00:30:24 – Adapting to Client Personalities
00:32:43 – Clear Communication with Clients
00:34:32 – Navigating Delays & Project Challenges
00:35:00 – Confidence in Client Relationships
00:37:48 – Vulnerability in Life & Business
00:43:18 – Postpartum Impact on Work & Identity
* Interior design
* Australian designer
* Creative entrepreneur
* Design studio
* Renovation
* Owner-builder
* Residential interiors
* Heritage renovation
* Studio leadership
* Creative motherhood
* Women in design
* Client communication
* Design inspiration
* Small business growth
* Authentic design process
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In this episode, Camilla sits down with Dani Dean, founder of The Make Haus, to explore the evolution of her multidisciplinary studio, spanning florals, interiors, spatial design, commercial installations, and standout projects like the David Jones Flower Show.
Together, we unpack what it truly looks like to juggle creativity, business, and motherhood. Dani shares why she refuses to niche down, how she cultivates inspiration across disciplines, and why downtime is an essential part of her process, not a luxury.
Camilla also reflects on how burnout has surfaced in her own design practice, and the permission creatives need to slow down, reset, and design from a grounded place.
In this episode, we explore:
• How Dani built a studio spanning multiple creative pillars
• The emotional and practical realities of motherhood in design
• How burnout shows up for creatives, and how to work differently
• The contrasting mindsets behind commercial vs residential design
• The importance of intuition, experimentation, and creative stillness
Whether you’re an interior designer, stylist, floral artist, creative entrepreneur, or simply someone who loves hearing the real stories behind design careers, this episode is full of depth, clarity, and the kind of permission creatives crave.
Follow Unfolded:
Website: https://www.unfolded.com.au/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
00:00:00 – Welcome & Episode Intro
00:00:56 – Meet Dani Dean: The Mind Behind The Make Haus
00:02:27 – How an Interior Path Emerged from Creative Curiosity
00:02:39 – The Moment The Make Haus Expanded Beyond One Discipline
00:08:20 – How Clients Engage Dani Across Interiors, Florals & Events
00:09:32 – Why Dani Refuses to “Pick a Lane”
00:09:50 – Choosing Interiors: The Career Decision That Stuck
00:11:16 – Motherhood, Boundaries & Designing with Less Noise
00:14:46 – How Partner Support Makes Creative Careers Possible
00:18:01 – From Fashion Roots to Interiors & Spatial Design
00:18:30 – Inside Dani’s Intuitive, Tactile Design Process
00:22:13 – What Makes The Make Haus Team Work
00:24:11 – Sources of Inspiration: Objects, Observation & Environment
00:28:14 – Switching Gears: Commercial vs Residential Mindsets
00:29:47 – The Projects That Changed Dani’s Creative Trajectory
00:30:53 – Behind the Fiore Sandwich Shop Concept
00:31:25 – Turning a Client Brief into a Lived Experience
00:33:23 – Why Creative Downtime Isn’t Optional
00:34:25 – Early Signs of Burnout & What Dani Learned
00:40:58 – What’s Next for The Make Haus
* Interior design
* Australian designer
* Creative entrepreneur
* Design studio
* Multi-disciplinary design
* Floristry
* Event styling
* Residential interiors
* Commercial design
* Creative process
* Women in design
* Design inspiration
* Creative motherhood
* Design business
* Burnout recovery
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This episode of Behind the Design features Troy Donovan, Principal Facade Designer at Prism Facades, whose work bridges architecture, engineering, and creative storytelling. From sketching in a notebook to leading large-scale projects with firms like Grimshaw Architects, Troy shares how facade design shapes the way we experience buildings, from the Sydney Opera House to the Australian War Memorial. He is based in New Zealand and leads his work from an office in Sydney.
In this thoughtful and grounded conversation, Troy opens up about his design process, the importance of collaboration, and how the smallest details can transform both a structure and the emotions it evokes. He reflects on the lessons learned through mistakes, the enduring value of sketching, and what it really takes to bring architectural visions to life.
Expect to learn:
• How facade design connects creativity, functionality, and craftsmanship
• The journey from industrial design to international architecture projects
• Why sketching remains a powerful design tool in a digital age
• What it takes to preserve heritage while innovating with modern materials
• How mistakes and experimentation lead to growth and better design outcomes
• Insights into the creative partnerships that shape landmark Australian buildings
Whether you are an architect, designer, or creative problem-solver, this episode will inspire you to see buildings in a new light and appreciate the artistry behind every facade.
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
00:00:52 – Meet Facade Designer Troy Donovan
00:02:32 – From Industrial Design to Architecture
00:03:16 – Studying Architecture and Finding Facades
00:06:10 – Sketching the Path to Facade Design
00:08:11 – What a Facade Designer Does
00:10:18 – Collaboration in Architecture and Engineering
00:11:04 – The Art and Science of Facades
00:12:36 – Experience and Intuition in Design
00:14:19 – The Ideal Facade Design Client
00:15:14 – Creativity and Teamwork at Prism Facades
00:18:07 – Working on Global Architecture Projects
00:18:59 – Heritage Buildings and Modern Challenges
00:19:39 – Hidden Design and Accessibility
00:24:05 – Using Instagram to Share Design Insights
00:27:37 – Teaching Facade Design Online
00:31:51 – Lessons from Design Mistakes
00:33:36 – Turning a Design Error into Success
00:36:13 – Why Sharing Mistakes Matters
00:38:15 – Relationships and the Future of Prism Facades
* facade design
* architecture podcast
* building envelopes
* Sydney architecture
* design process
* Australian architects
* sustainable design
* building innovation
* architectural detailing
* sketching for designers
* creative collaboration
* design storytelling
* design education
* design inspiration
* Grimshaw Architects
* Opera House design
* Prism Facades
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This episode of Behind the Design features Shona McElroy from Smac Studio, one of Australia’s most exciting emerging interior designers. What began as a side project has evolved into a thriving studio known for its bold use of materials, thoughtful detail, and high-end residential interiors that balance precision with personality.
In this honest and grounded conversation, Shona opens up about the realities of building a creative business; from hiring the right people and managing clients to setting boundaries, avoiding burnout, and staying inspired in a fast-moving design industry.
Expect to learn:
How Smac Studio grew from an “accidental” start-up into a five-person design studioThe secret to scaling without losing your creative identityHow to build client trust and set boundaries that protect your processWhy burnout and imposter syndrome are part of every creative’s journeyThe truth behind design trends like Modern Spanish and Modern MediterraneanWhat it takes to grow a sustainable, fulfilling design businessWhether you're an interior designer, architect, or creative founder, this episode will inspire you to grow with confidence and clarity. And if you're planning to renovate or build from scratch, this podcast is packed with insights to guide your journey.
Connect with Smac Studio
https://www.instagram.com/smac_studio
https://www.smacstudio.com.au/
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
00:00:00 – Welcome to Behind the Design
00:00:36 – Meet Shona from Smac Studio
00:02:01 – How Smac Studio Began
00:05:15 – Scaling a Design Business
00:06:00 – Delegation and Building a Team
00:08:05 – Balancing Growth and Client Demands
00:10:12 – Design Trends vs. Timeless Interiors
00:13:24 – Creating Trust with Design Clients
00:15:13 – Developing a Signature Design Style
00:17:33 – Why the Concept Phase Matters
00:20:17 – Managing Revisions and Client Feedback
00:26:05 – Modern Spanish & Mediterranean Design Trends
00:28:50 – Social Media’s Impact on Interiors
00:30:29 – DIY vs. Professional Interior Designers
00:34:10 – Career Highs, Lows & Lessons Learned
00:39:54 – People Pleasing in Creative Business
00:43:54 – Dealing with Burnout in Design
00:47:40 – Recovering and Regaining Creativity
00:51:15 – Building Team Culture & Collaboration
00:55:00 – Imposter Syndrome in Design
00:58:41 – What’s Next for Smac Studio
* Smac Studio
* Shona McElroy
* Interior design podcast
* Creative burnout
* Design business tips
* Scaling a design studio
* Boundaries with clients
* Australian interior designer
* Modern Mediterranean design
* Modern Spanish interiors
* Creative entrepreneurship
* Managing design clients
* Signature design style
* Imposter syndrome in design
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This episode of Behind the Design features Leon and Victoria Pirrello, the couple behind Vicello. What began in their garage has grown into a thriving joinery and design studio with a team, factory spaces, and a reputation for delivering bespoke interiors across NSW. Their journey is one of courage, collaboration, and saying yes to projects that stretched them well beyond their comfort zone.
They share how Vicello was built step by step - balancing marriage, parenting, and business - while carving out a niche in guiding clients through every stage of the joinery process. From technical precision to meaningful collaboration with architects and designers, their approach blends craftsmanship with connection, offering valuable lessons for anyone in design, construction, or business.
Expect to learn:
How Vicello went from garage projects to full-home fitoutsWhy early collaboration with joiners saves time, money, and mistakesThe creative and technical process behind high-end bespoke joineryHow to lead a family-run business with clear roles, values, and purposeThe importance of emotional intelligence in design and businessIf you're an interior designer, architect, builder, or business owner in the design space - this episode is a must.
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
00:00:00 – Behind the Design Intro
00:01:52 – Meet the Guest
00:02:00 – How the Business Began
00:05:39 – Design Process Overview
00:12:04 – Working with Architects
00:13:53 – Family Business Dynamics
00:16:34 – Compassionate Leadership
00:18:05 – Favourite Projects & Growth
00:20:08 – Drafting Team’s Role
00:22:34 – Ideal Clients & Fit
00:25:40 – Relationship-Driven Projects
00:29:27 – Portfolio & Client Privacy
00:33:54 – Shift to Construction & Joinery
00:35:09 – Passion for Collaboration
00:39:25 – Seamless Client Experience
00:43:18 – Building a Business Together
00:44:24 – Advice to Younger Creatives
00:47:23 – Emotions in Entrepreneurship
00:49:28 – Managing Creative Stress
00:49:58 – Quick Fire Questions
* bespoke joinery
* high-end interiors
* family business success
* interior design business
* designer-builder collaboration
* Vicello
* scaling creative businesses
* behind the scenes interior design
* building a business with your spouse
* Australian design podcasts
* female founders in construction
* working with your partner business
* custom cabinetry and joinery
* emotional intelligence in business
* early engagement trades
* client experience design industry
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This episode is a true reflection of creativity, resilience, and the beauty of turning life’s challenges into meaningful design.
In this episode of Behind the Design, we sit down with Jenn Bliss, the visionary behind some of Port Stephens’ most admired homes, including the much-loved Talm Beach House.
What began as a love for interiors sparked in childhood has grown into a career that blends design, renovation, and storytelling. Jenn shares her journey from Cape Town to the Australian coast, building a family business in construction and design, and creating spaces that feel deeply personal. She opens up about the juggle of motherhood and business, the realities of living through renovations, managing trades on site as a woman in the industry, and why she believes the rise of AI has only made human creativity and connection more valuable than ever.
Expect to hear about:
The story behind Talm Beach House and how it became an iconic coastal escapeBalancing motherhood, business, and the messy middle of renovationsThe realities of living in a renovation (and what no one talks about it)Navigating respect and confidence as a woman in the construction industryWhy AI will never replace the power of human creativity and connectionHow Jenn avoids burnout and stays aligned with her “why”If you’re craving inspiration, wondering how to bring more authenticity into your creative projects, or simply need to hear that it’s okay to embrace imperfection, this episode is for you. Tune in to hear Jenn’s honest, warm, and refreshing take on design, resilience, and the power of following your instincts.
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
00:02:04 – Meet Jenn: Designer & Stylist
00:03:41 – Childhood Passion for Interiors
00:06:19 – Building Tom Beach House
00:10:07 – Marketing Tom on Airbnb
00:11:40 – Renovating Ambers & Family Homes
00:14:44 – Balancing Motherhood & Career
00:17:46 – Spotting Burnout in Design
00:21:27 – Breaks for Creativity & Health
00:22:55 – Women in Construction Respect
00:28:06 – Choosing the Right Trades
00:29:43 – AI in Design Industry
00:30:38 – Human Creativity vs AI
00:36:42 – Imposter Syndrome in Design
00:43:38 – Interior Design Process
00:45:26 – Room-by-Room Mood Boards
00:47:11 – Personalizing Spaces with Story
00:48:30 – Advice to Younger Self
00:51:05 – Jenn’s Journey to Australia
00:57:05 – Community & Energy in Design
* interior design podcast 2025
* Airbnb home styling tips
* Tom Beach House Port Stephens design
* women in construction challenges
* balancing motherhood and career
* how to avoid burnout as a creative
* AI vs human creativity in design
* real life renovation stories
* Cape Town to Australia designer journey
* coastal home design inspiration
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This episode is a true testament to the power of taking risks, following your creative instincts, and the beauty of building a business that reflects your passion. In this episode of Behind the Design, we chat with Laura, the creative mind behind Laura Rees Styling. What began as a leap into freelancing has grown into a thriving interior styling business, bringing unique and personal touches to spaces, from private residences to editorial shoots.
Laura shares her journey from the corporate world to the creative chaos of freelancing, balancing motherhood with styling, and highlighting the importance of working with the right people and trades on-site to bring each project to life.
Expect to hear about:
How stepping away from corporate life led to a creative businessBalancing family life and freelancing with chaos and beauty!The artistry behind styling for the camera and what it takes to get that perfect shotThe value of building authentic relationships with clients, photographers, and suppliersTips for aspiring stylists and creatives who want to take the leap into freelancingThe upcoming workshops Laura’s launching to help others style with intentionIf you’re craving inspiration, wondering how to turn your creative passion into a business, or simply need to hear that it’s okay to embrace the messy middle of any project, this episode is for you.
Tune in to hear Laura’s raw, real, and refreshing take on building a creative career on your terms. Plus, get ready to feel motivated to trust your instincts and make bold moves, because life’s too short to play it safe.
Don’t forget to subscribe for more creative insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the design world.
Follow Unfolded:
https://www.unfolded.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_
00:00:00 – Introduction to Laura’s Interior Styling Journey
00:01:32 – From Corporate Career to Freelancing in Styling
00:05:56 – Support, Risk-Taking & Building a Creative Business
00:07:59 – Collaboration & Relationships in the Interior Styling Industry
00:10:23 – The Realities, Challenges & Rewards of Styling
00:15:19 – McMaster’s Beach Project: Styling a Coastal Home
00:17:48 – Styling for the Camera & Creating Perfect Vignettes
00:20:51 – Sourcing Unique Pieces & Standing Out as a Stylist
00:22:52 – How COVID-19 Impacted the Styling & Art World
00:24:01 – Working with Photographers & Navigating Shoot Days
00:28:01 – Problem-Solving & Managing On-Set Challenges
00:30:11 – Inspiration, Sourcing & Growing Industry Connections
00:31:56 – Social Media, Lighting & Trusting Your Creative Vision
00:36:34 – Advice & Top Styling Tips for Aspiring Designers
00:45:38 – Collaboration, Overcoming Self-Doubt & Client Success
00:50:14 – Patience, Persistence & Recharging Your Creativity
00:52:46 – Where to Connect with Laura Rees
* Interior Styling
* Freelance Interior Design
* Styling Tips
* Creative Career
* Interior Design Business
* Design Inspiration
* Freelance Life
* Styling for Photoshoots
* Home Styling Ideas
* Creative Entrepreneurship
* Designing with Purpose
* Styling Secrets
* Building a Design Brand
* Collaboration in Design
* Balancing Family and Freelance
* Interior Design Process
* Personalized Home Design
* Styling Inspiration
* Women in Design
* Interior Design Journey
- Show more
