For larger scale projects, (alterations and additions, new builds and anything that requires a DA), we love working with architects, because their expertise brings another layer of skill, experience and creativity to a project. As long as both parties are open to working with each other, respect each others areas of expertise, and are working towards the same goals, having both an architect and interior designer on board can really bring the magic out in a project, and will give you something better than you ever could have imagined. From my experience, here are my top tips on getting the ..read more

And it makes sense, right? In order for someone to do a good job on these tasks for me, I needed to be clear about what I wanted, and also give them the materials and information they need to get going.    It got me thinking about when a new client engages us on their interior design project. Overall, yes — hiring us will take a HUGE load off your mental to-do list and also end up with something a lot better than you could have done yourself (I know this because I’ve had clients tell me over and over again). At the same time though, there is a time and energy investment needed on you ..read more

  Do you need an interior designer if you’ve already got a builder? The short answer? Yes (in most instances).   In my experience, the most successful, efficient and smooth projects — whether that be a website design, a wedding or a renovation — are the result of a talented team of experts who have clear roles and responsibilities, within their area of expertise.    This same logic applies to a renovation project. In fact, in many instances where a homeowner has contacted a builder first, the builder has put the clients in touch with me prior to even quotes being produced ..read more

Before & After Interior Design Project — These clients came to me as they were approaching retirement, and wanted to maximise their time spent at home with rooms they could make better use of. Having spent many years in this house, they’d also begun to accumulate furniture and artwork from other family members, so the home wasn’t a true reflection of them anymore. I find this a lot with clients, especially those who’ve had grown-up kids move out. One day they seem to look around and think — “where’s the “us” in all of this?!”   As a starting point for the project, my clients aske ..read more

FAQ: What is your interior design style? Some interior design studios are known for providing the same look or aesthetic for each client. There are many in-demand designers who do this, in fact. Take a look at Amber Interiors or Studio McGee in the US or The Stables here in Aus for an example. Each of those firms uses their “signature look” for each home they work on. And people come to them for that look.   When it comes to Vellum Interiors, I am motivated to give my clients something that feels like “them“. So, while I have particular design preferences (you probably won’t ever see me d ..read more

Why Details Make a Difference in an Interior Design Project Often it’s the smallest details that bring me the most joy in a project. And they also add meaning and depth to my clients’ relationship with their home. One way I like to add meaning to my client’s homes is to source items with a story behind them. For me to do this, I make sure I’m up-to-date with the huge variety of items available from different suppliers and stores. I keep informed about the materials and production process each supplier uses, and always prefer items which are made to the highest standards. The wall light is fro ..read more

At the tail-end of a long renovation, these clients — a couple with four children — came to me to help with the final layer for their home in Manly.  Although I live around the corner, this was the first time I’d completed an interior design project in Manly! Both clients were engaged with the renovation process, and very visual. But, they were after a fresh set of eyes and someone to help with making the many decisions that still lay ahead of them. They knew what they wanted — a non-cliched coastal home, connected to it’s surroundings with plenty of warmth and soul. They just didn’t know ..read more

When it comes to tackling any renovation, people often talk about how long and drawn out renovations can be, and, yes — it does take time and can be stressful. But like most things in life, the better prepared you are, the better the outcome. My advice is to have fun in the process and keep the end result in mind — your beautiful new space! If you have no idea where to start your renovation ‘journey’, read on to find out how it works and what steps to take for a result you’ll be truly happy with.   1. Why do you want to renovate?  Ask yourself — What is it you want to achieve from th ..read more

Many of my clients have confessed that they were nervous before hiring me. They were worried that the result would be more “me” than them. Some clients haven’t worked with a designer before (or it’s been a long time since they have), so they were worried about bills going on forever. Other people have been worried that because they didn’t have a clear idea of exactly what they wanted, the result would be a mish-mash of styles that they wouldn’t like — and would’ve spent a whole lot of money on. I’ve put these questions together to help you determine which interior designer is right for you, an ..read more

  This is a really common ‘problem’ clients come to me with. The couple have agreed they’re going to make some pretty big updates to their home, but they can’t agree on much else! This can be incredibly frustrating and can lead to no decisions being made at all. One very simple way to combat this is to hire a professional designer to merge the design styles and ‘must haves’ of everyone involved. Even if you are engaging professional help, though, it will help to align your wants and needs prior to meeting with someone.   In my experience, there are 4 main ways to achieve a happy medi ..read more