On this week’s blog we thought it would be fun to introduce our very own talented commercial designer, Kate Gillard, and discover what inspires her. We’ve asked her what she loves about commercial design, how she got into the industry and everything in between!
The Work Stuff…
Tell us a little about your journey as an Interior Designer over the years
After graduating in the UK I packed up and took to off the other side of the world! I have been very lucky to have worked within many different sectors of design from visual merchandising, styling to furniture design, architecture and interior design. This has allowed me to experience a vast scope of work from commercial, residential and hotel work; all leading me to where I am today.
Where do you seek inspiration?
My ideas are usually driven by a desire to find a connection – whether this be in the history of the place, stories from an owner, or something that catches my attention from the surrounding or community.
How do you stay up to date with design trends?
Staying up to date is so important within this industry. I do this by looking ahead at predicted forecast blogs, magazines, supplier presentations and trade shows.
How has your style evolved over time?
I’d say more refined with age. Timeless design.
Walk us through your design process…
My first and favourite part is to sketch out my thoughts and questions. Developing on to key colours and finishes, through to the more refined detail of joinery and modelling where everything starts coming together.
What websites or instagram accounts do you follow for inspiration?
There are too many! Some great ones I like are:
- Design Milk
- Interior & More
- The Stables
- Interior Styling
- Interior + Scandinavian Design
What is your favourite room in the house to design?
I can’t say I have a particular favourite that comes to mind but I love detail, so rooms where you can adapt custom or built in pieces are my preference.
What project are you working on right now?
I’m currently finishing up a library and an aged care facility and am about to start a café.
What is the most rewarding project you have ever worked on?
To current date I would say a hotel, however there has been a few. With most of my projects, I get satisfaction at the completion and seeing everything come together.
What is the most difficult aspect of working in design?
Quick turnarounds – you find a lot of suppliers don’t hold bulk available stock.
What design rule do you love to break?
Am I allowed to say certain building regulations?
The Personal Stuff…
- What are you reading right now? Not just lucky – Jamila Rizvi
- What do you do to unwind? Run or red wine
- What is your favourite holiday destination? Heading to the snow in France.
- Favourite cocktail? Depending on the location, Espresso Martina or Mojito
- What household items couldn’t you live without? As much as I don’t want to say it my phone, toothbrush and comfy trousers.
- Tell us about the style of your own home. Contemporary minimal with handcrafted details.
- If you didn’t live in Brisbane, where would you want to call home? New York
- What movie set would you love to live on? Inception – Playing with dimensions would be fun!
- What advice would you give to someone wanting to become an Interior Designer? Try to gain as much experience as possible, knowledge is key.
