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Behind The Design

Camilla Ingall

Behind the Design is a podcast that brings you closer to the projects, people, and untold stories behind the Pinterest saves you’ve been obsessing over for years. Hosted by Camilla Ingall, interior designer and founder of Unfolded, each episode goes beyond the finished photos to unpack how great design actually comes to life through honest conversations with designers, architects, stylists, builders, and creatives.
If you care about thoughtful design and want a deeper understanding of what really goes on behind the scenes, you’re in the right place.

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  • 21 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 47 min
  • English

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  • August 19 · 1 hr 22 min

    47. Why Lighting Matters More Than You Think | Objects for Thought

    Lighting is often one of the last things considered in a project, but it can completely change how we experience a space, from the way materials and colours are perceived to how the room actually feels. In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Jay and CJ, founders of Objects for Thought, to explore the thinking, process and business decisions behind their contemporary lighting brand. This is a conversation about much more than beautiful light fittings. Jay and CJ share how their very different backgrounds in design, art, finance and electrical work eventually led them to build a lighting company, and why they deliberately chose to focus on doing one thing exceptionally well. We talk about why lighting can make or break an interior, what happens when beautiful finishes are paired with poor-quality lighting, and the technical details that designers and homeowners often don't see. And most importantly, Jay and CJ share what they've learned about building a creative business without letting ego drive every decision. In this episode: • How Objects for Thought began and how Jay and CJ found their way into lighting• Why constructive criticism is central to their creative partnership • How they divide the business across Melbourne and Brisbane • Why good lighting is about more than aesthetics • How lighting quality affects colour, materials and finishes • What electricians and trades bring to the design process • Why Objects for Thought deliberately says no to some custom work • How direct relationships with designers create a valuable feedback loop • Why solving problems well can strengthen long-term client relationships • The importance of patience when building a product-based design business For architects, interior designers, builders and anyone interested in how thoughtful design actually comes together, this episode offers a look behind the finished product and into the decisions that make it work. Follow Behind the Design for more conversations with the people, businesses and creatives shaping the design industry. Follow Jay, CJ and Object for Thought https://www.of-t.com/about https://www.instagram.com/objectsforthought/ https://www.instagram.com/jay_jermyn/ https://www.instagram.com/cjand/ Follow Unfolded: https://www.unfolded.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_

  • August 5 · 39 min

    46. Why Furniture Hire Matters More Than You Think | Huntley + Co

    When people think about preparing a home for sale, they usually picture the finished styling. What they don't see is everything happening behind the scenes to make that transformation possible. In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Amy Smith, founder of Huntley + Co, a Sydney-based furniture hire business created specifically to support property stylists, interior designers and creative professionals. After spending more than a decade as a senior stylist, Amy recognised a growing gap in the industry. Independent stylists needed access to beautiful furniture, reliable logistics and an easier way to hire pieces without managing their own warehouse. That insight became Huntley + Co. We talk about the evolution of the property styling industry, what it takes to build a business that supports other creatives, and why furniture hire has become such an important part of preparing homes for sale. Whether you're a property stylist, interior designer, supplier or creative business owner, this conversation offers an honest look at what happens behind one of the industry's most essential businesses. In this episode we cover: · Why Amy founded Huntley + Co after 13 years in property styling · The difference between furniture hire and property styling · How Huntley + Co supports independent stylists and designers · Building a business around solving industry pain points · Designing a furniture collection that balances timeless pieces with current trends · The role technology plays in simplifying furniture hire · Growing through uncertainty during COVID · Supporting creatives beyond furniture through the Style Minds community · Building long-term client relationships through reliability and trust · What success looks like after building a thriving creative business If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to Behind the Design for more conversations with the people shaping Australia's design industry. Follow Amy Smith and Huntley + Co https://huntleyandco.com.au/about-us/ https://www.instagram.com/huntley_and_co/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090875392637 Follow Unfolded: https://www.unfolded.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_ —------ Chapters 00:59 - Behind the Design with Amy Smith 02:47 - The Evolution of Property Styling 05:33 - Finding a Gap in the Property Styling Industry 08:03 - The Reality of Starting a Creative Business 11:07 - What a Furniture Hire Company Really Does 15:00 - How Technology Is Changing Property Styling 17:16 - Choosing Furniture That Appeals to Buyers 20:42 - Design Trends vs Timeless Interiors 22:47 - Building a Community Around Your Business 25:36 - Using Social Media to Grow a Design Business 29:07 - Why Trust Matters More Than Talent 32:43 - The Biggest Challenge of Growing Huntley & Co 35:04 - Redefining Success as a Business Owner 36:50 - Quickfire Questions with Amy Smith Keywords furniture hire furniture hire Australia furniture hire Sydney Huntley + Co Amy Smith Huntley + Co property styling property stylist home staging Australia home staging furniture interior styling business interior designers Australia property styling business furniture rental for stylists styling homes for sale interior design podcast Behind the Design Podcast Camilla Engel home presentation styling industry design business

  • July 22 · 44 min

    45. How to Choose the Right Stone Without Costly Mistakes | Nathan Karpenko, CAV'ART

    Choosing natural stone is about far more than aesthetics. In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Nathan Karpenko, co-owner of CAV'ART Designer Stone, to explore what really happens behind the scenes when selecting one of the most important materials in a home. Nathan shares his journey from working in luxury hotels to leading one of Australia's most respected natural stone suppliers. Along the way, we talk about the power of relationships, starting a business during COVID, the life-changing impact of a bowel cancer diagnosis, and why trust has become the foundation of everything he does. We also unpack some of the biggest misconceptions about natural stone, how designers and suppliers work together to create better outcomes, and why the best projects always start with honest conversations. Whether you're an interior designer, architect, builder or homeowner planning your next renovation, this episode offers practical insights into choosing the right materials while building stronger relationships throughout the design process. In this episode, we cover: • Nathan's unexpected path from hospitality into the natural stone industry • How a bowel cancer diagnosis changed his outlook on business and life • Starting CAV'ART during the uncertainty of COVID • Why trust matters more than selling products • The biggest misconceptions about marble, granite and quartzite • How designers and suppliers collaborate to achieve better project outcomes • Choosing the right stone for your lifestyle, not just the look • Why customer experience is just as important as the materials themselves • Building a business around quality, honesty and long-term relationships If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to Behind the Design for more conversations with the people shaping Australia's design industry. We'd also love it if you left a review and shared this episode with someone planning their next project. Follow Nathan Karpenko and CAV'ART Designer Stone https://au.linkedin.com/in/nathan-karpenko-53350617 https://www.instagram.com/nathankarpenko/ https://au.linkedin.com/company/cav-art-designer-stone?trk=public_profile_topcard-current-company https://cavart.com.au/ Follow Unfolded: https://www.unfolded.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_ —------ Chapters 01:29 — Nathan Capon's Journey Into the Stone Industry 05:46 — How a Cancer Diagnosis Changed Everything 10:17 — Starting a Business During COVID 15:16 — Building Trust Instead of Chasing Sales 21:34 — Why Quality Matters More Than Quantity 25:02 — How Designers and Stone Suppliers Work Together 30:02 — Marble vs Quartzite: Choosing the Right Stone 32:01 — Common Mistakes People Make When Choosing Stone 34:18 — How to Choose the Perfect Stone Slab 37:32 — Creating an Exceptional Customer Experience 41:10 — Business Lessons on Leadership, Relationships & Growth 45:12— Final Advice for Designers, Builders & Homeowners Keywords Natural Stone Stone Selection Kitchen Benchtops Marble Benchtops Quartzite Benchtops Interior Design Australia Interior Design Podcast Home Renovation Tips Kitchen Renovation Bathroom Renovation Stone Supplier Australia Marble vs Quartzite Choosing Natural Stone Interior Designers Australia Building Relationships in Business Cava Stone Camilla Ingall Behind the Design Podcast Design Industry Residential Design

  • July 8 · 1 hr 1 min

    44. Service Over Style: Chris Trotta on Building a Sustainable Architecture Business

    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_ —------ 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

  • June 24 · 57 min

    43. Design vs Styling: The Hidden Steps Behind Every Great Project with Bea Lambos

    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. ------------ 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_ ------------ 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? ------------ 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

  • June 10 · 34 min

    42. Building the Vision: A Builder's Perspective on Design with JW Projects

    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

  • May 27 · 1 hr 7 min

    41. Scaling a Trade Supply Business with GatherCo

    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

  • May 13 · 46 min

    40. Inside Folk Studio: People-First Design and the Discipline of No

    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

  • April 29 · 39 min

    39. Inside Cosentino: How Stone Innovation Is Redefining Surfaces

    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_

  • April 15 · 42 min

    38. Details That Define Merivale: Secrets of Great Design with Nasim Köerting

    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

  • April 1 · 42 min

    37. Beyond Trends: Creating Timeless Design with Nelli Hegi

    “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

  • March 18 · 35 min

    36. Bespoke Furniture vs Scalable Design: Tim Noone’s Approach

    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 furniture The challenges of running a creative business that lasts How he overcame the growth limits of fully custom furniture Why furniture should support architecture and interiors Redefining success for creativity, family, and sustainability If 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

  • March 4 · 31 min

    35. Setting Boundaries as an Interior Designer (Without Losing Clients)

    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

  • February 18 · 33 min

    34. Inside the Process: How Luxury Joinery Is Really Built

    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

  • January 28 · 41 min

    33. From Vintage Store to National Brand: The MCM House Story

    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

  • January 7 · 37 min

    32. Quiet Luxury Explained: Inside Daniel Boddam’s Design Philosophy

    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 landscape The role of texture, sound, touch, and material honesty in great design Why restraint and patience lead to better creative outcomes Balancing architecture, furniture, business growth, and personal boundaries Designing homes that age well; emotionally and materially If 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

  • Dec 17, 2025 · 50 min

    31. From Designer to Owner-Builder: Lessons Learned on the Job with Stephanie Ferrara

    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

  • Nov 26, 2025 · 53 min

    30. Women Redefining Leadership Through Creative, Multidisciplinary Design

    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

  • Nov 5, 2025 · 42 min

    29. The Art & Science of Facade Design: How Troy Donovan Shapes Iconic Buildings

    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

  • Oct 15, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min

    28. Creative Burnout, Boundaries & The Business of Design - Lessons from Smac Studio

    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 studio The secret to scaling without losing your creative identity How to build client trust and set boundaries that protect your process Why burnout and imposter syndrome are part of every creative’s journey The truth behind design trends like Modern Spanish and Modern Mediterranean What it takes to grow a sustainable, fulfilling design business Whether 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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