The Design Duet

This week, we're joined by Jacqui Bendall- a fourth-generation Boroondara local whose passion for people has shaped every step of her career. After two decades running a successful travel agency, she made the leap into real estate, bringing with her a deep commitment to personalised service and community connection.Now working alongside her brother Scott in Melbourne's inner east, Jacqui shares her insights on post-COVID buyer trends, preparing to downsize, what really sells a home (hint: it's not just kitchens and bathrooms), and why working with a designer can make all the difference.Whether you're planning a move or just love hearing from people who lead with heart, this episode is full of warmth, wisdom and real-world advice.

In this episode of The Design Duet, we're diving into the standout interior design trends shaping 2025. From the bold comeback of vibrant colour palettes to the growing focus on sustainability and wellness-inspired spaces, we unpack the shifts that are redefining how we live and design.Discover how vintage influences are making a modern return, why butler's pantries are phasing out, and how your home can become a sanctuary for both mind and body. Whether you're planning a full renovation or looking for simple ways to refresh your space, this episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and practical ideas.

In this episode of The Design Duet, we're shining a light on one of the most transformative elements in interior design—lighting. Following our energizing conversation with Danielle, we continue the dialogue with a deep dive into how lighting shapes our spaces, our moods, and our everyday routines.We explore the concept of human-centric lighting and how it's influencing our design choices more than ever. From the warm glow in your living room to task lighting in your kitchen, we break down what kind of lighting works best for different areas of the home. We also chat through the latest lighting trends we're seeing and loving right now.Whether you're planning a full-scale reno or simply want to elevate the ambiance of your space, this episode will give you the insight (and inspo) to light it right.  

In this episode of The Design Duet, we kick off the new season with a deep dive into the transformative power of lighting. Joining us is the incredible Danielle Mastro, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Lights Lights Lights, a team of passionate lighting experts redefining how we experience light in our spaces.We explore how lighting is about more than just practicality it's about emotion, atmosphere, and human-centric design. Danielle shares her process of designing with light, from understanding a home's unique personality to considering materials, reflectance, daylight, and style. She explains why lighting isn't just about fixtures, but about creating an experience that enhances the way we live.Whether you're designing a new space or rethinking your current lighting, this episode will open your eyes to the magic of light and its impact on everyday life. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will change the way you see (and feel) lighting!

As 2024 comes to a close, we're bringing you a special year-end episode where we flip the script and interview each other! In this episode, we dive deep into our personal journeys in interior design—sharing our likes and dislikes, why we chose this career, and the things that motivate us both inside and outside of the design world.We also talk about what we hope for the future, both professionally and personally, and share some of our biggest takeaways. It's been an incredible journey bringing you exciting interviews and insightful topics, and we're thrilled to share what's to come in 2025.Thank you for being part of The Design Duet community, and we can't wait to bring you even more inspiration and creativity in the new year! Tune in to hear our stories, reflections, and future plans!

In this episode of The Design Duet, we take a nostalgic (and slightly cringeworthy) stroll down memory lane to discuss the design trends that have come and gone. From mottled walls and mirrored furniture to saloon-style doors, we question why some of these ever existed—and why others had us hooked at one point.We explore the ever-evolving nature of design and why certain trends stand the test of time while others fade into obscurity. Whether you're guilty of loving these trends or just curious about the styles that shaped past decades, this episode is packed with fun insights and honest takes on what's in, what's out, and what should never come back.

In this episode, we're sharing our unique journeys into the world of interior design. Caroline talks about starting fresh in the field, while Chrissie shares her experience making a career change. With the end of the school year approaching, many students and career-changers are thinking about their next steps. We dive into the different paths you can take to become an interior designer and explore some less traditional routes into the industry. Plus, we'll give you practical tips on small actions you can incorporate into your daily life to get started on your own design journey. Tune in for inspiration, insights, and a roadmap to breaking into interior design!

In this week's episode of The Design Duet, we sit down with the incredible Jenny Jones, an award-winning rug maker celebrated for her extraordinary craftsmanship and artistic eye. With nearly 30 years in the rug-making industry, Jenny has become a true master of her craft, creating bespoke, handmade rugs that blend tradition, innovation, and a deep passion for art.Jenny shares her inspiring journey from the beginning of her career to becoming a leading figure in the industry. We dive into the intricate, 180-step process of creating each rug, from design to the final product, and explore how her talent for combining color, texture, and pattern makes her pieces truly timeless.

In this special episode of The Design Duet, we tackle one of the most important spaces in any home—the kitchen! Join us as we take a deep dive into a recent client project involving a full kitchen demolition and rebuild, all while sticking to a $70,000 budget.We'll walk you through the client's renovation scope, discuss how to allocate funds effectively, and reveal the hidden costs you may not be aware of when tackling a kitchen renovation. From materials and design choices to unexpected fees, we've got everything you need to consider before diving into your own project. Whether you're planning your own kitchen makeover or just curious about the process, this is an episode you don't want to miss!

We are beyond thrilled to be joined by Julie Fodera, who, alongside her husband Vincent, is in the process of restoring the magnificent Heatherbrae—one of Victoria's most treasured heritage homes.Located in Caulfield and dating back to 1854, Heatherbrae is steeped in history. In this episode, Julie takes us on a journey through her inspiring vision for restoring this iconic property and shares her personal experiences in the world of historical restoration. We dive deep into the importance of preserving Melbourne's rich history and the significant process of bringing such a storied past back to life.When complete, Heatherbrae will beautifully blend its historical charm with modern comforts, serving as a true celebration of heritage, community, and the arts. Beyond being a private residence, Julie and her team have founded Heatherbrae1854 Pty Ltd, which will seek opportunities to raise funds for local non-profit organizations dedicated to historical preservation, through affiliate marketing and other exciting initiatives.In addition to becoming a private home, Heatherbrae will be transformed into a living gallery for artists, designers, and makers. Its stunning grounds, featuring a majestic Moreton Bay Fig (believed to be the largest of its kind in Victoria), will also serve as a coveted venue for curated events. The landscape will be brought to life with feature gardens, enchanting pathways, and ambient lighting.At the heart of it all, Heatherbrae and the Fodera family aim to inspire the broader community to make thoughtful choices about preserving heritage homes and keeping the stories of our shared history alive.

In this episode of The Design Duet, we sit down with Tilly, who's in the midst of buying her first home. Join us as Tilly shares her experiences, from navigating the challenging real estate market to figuring out how to choose the right place. We discuss the essential non-negotiables that every first-time homebuyer should consider and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with making such a significant decision.We also explore why many younger generations often hesitate to reach out to interior designers and how Tilly is breaking that trend by deciding to work with one. She shares her plans for the new space and what she's looking forward to as she turns her first house into a home.This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice for anyone thinking about purchasing their first property.

In this  episode of The Design Duet, we're diving deep into the world of home renovation. If you've ever wondered how to kickstart your renovation journey, this episode is for you! We'll answer all your burning questions, including:- How to start your renovation project?- Who to talk to for professional advice?- What you need to remember before diving in?- Tips and tricks to help you save money along the way.From the front of your house to the very back, we cover everything you need to know. Our discussion is packed with practical advice and valuable insights that will help you navigate the renovation process smoothly and efficiently.

In this episode of  The Design Duet, we sit down with our lovely client, Inez, who completed the renovation of her stunning Edwardian home back in 2019. Join us as we delve into the details of her renovation journey and the role we played in turning her new house into the home of her dreams.Inez shares her experiences and insights on:- The challenges and triumphs of renovating her home- Her decision to engage an interior designer early in the process- How our collaboration helped bring her vision to life- Tips for homeowners considering a renovation project- The importance of blending old-world charm with modern livingThis conversation is filled with practical advice, some fun stories, and plenty of inspiration for anyone interested in home renovation and design. 

In this episode of  The Design Duet, we're delving into the exhilarating and complex world of house flipping. Have you ever considered transforming a fixer-upper into a dream home or a profitable investment? This episode is packed with insights just for you!Join us as we unpack the enticing opportunities and significant challenges that come with flipping houses. Our discussion covers the financial benefits, renovation strategies, and market dynamics that are crucial for success.Key topics covered in this episode:- The financial benefits and risks associated with flipping houses- Effective renovation strategies to enhance property value- Tips for identifying the right properties to flip

In this episode of The Design Duet, we sit down with the remarkable Nathan Bachli, a young and dynamic entrepreneur who defied the odds by launching a wholesale business during the challenging times of the pandemic.Join us as Nathan shares the inspiring story behind his career journey, from his humble beginnings to the bold decision to open his own store. Delve into the passion and perseverance that fuelled his dream, and learn about the hard work and dedication that went into building Bachli.Discover the ethos behind Bachli, where the focus is on enriching everyday lives with products that wear in, not out. Nathan discusses his vision for the future of the brand, which seeks to collaborate with a select group of highly regarded local and international brands to offer furniture, lighting, and objects for residential and commercial spaces throughout Australia.With a long-term view and a commitment to quality and craftsmanship, Nathan considers each object as a personal investment – objects for a life of all things considered.

In this episode of The Design Duet, join us as we explore the art of renovating a bathroom on a budget! With Easter around the corner, we're excited to bring you a special episode a day early, packed with practical tips and expert advice.Discover how to transform your bathroom without breaking the bank as we break down the process of designing a stylish and functional space for under $25,000. From choosing the right fixtures to maximising your budget, we cover it all.Join us as we discuss the essential costs, appliances, and design choices that can help you achieve your dream bathroom within your budget. We'll share insights on what you need, what you don't, and how to prioritize your spending for maximum impact.Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a homeowner looking to spruce up your space, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips to help you create a bathroom you'll love, without the hefty price tag.

WE ARE BACK! In our first episode of Season Two, we're thrilled to have the remarkable Andrew Mitchell, The Design Coach, as our guest. Andrew takes us on a captivating ride through his own evolution within the industry, sharing the pivotal moments that led him to coaching.From the highs of triumph to the lows of isolation and near-quit, Andrew's story is one of resilience and growth. He candidly shares how these challenges became the stepping stones to building robust systems and processes, propelling his business to unprecedented success.Tune in as we explore the fascinating intersections of creativity, business, and personal growth with Andrew Mitchell.

In our final episode of the year, join us for a special Q&A session where we answer some of the most asked questions.  In this episode, we're peeling back the layers, addressing everything from design dilemmas to insider tips. Wondering about the secrets behind our favorite projects? Curious about timeless design principles? Eager to know what trends we predict for the upcoming year? We've got you covered!

In this episode, we sit down with the fabulous interior designer, Justin Bishop. Join us on a captivating journey through his remarkable career, from its inception to the heights of success.In this engaging conversation, we explore the twists and turns of Justin's design path, the sources of his inspiration, and the stories behind some of his most iconic projects. From the glamour of high-profile spaces to the nuances of creating homes that resonate with personal style, Justin shares his insights into the diverse world of interior design.Discover the secrets behind his design philosophy, the challenges he's overcome, and the triumphs that have defined his approach to creating beautiful, functional spaces. 

In this episode we delve into the fascinating world of styling. Join us as we unveil the intricate process behind transforming spaces into harmonious, visually stunning havens.In this episode, we share the essence of our styling philosophy — weaving sentimental items into your decor, bridging the gap between the old and the new, the strategic power of blocking, and the beauty of taking daring styling risks. Discover how these elements come together to create spaces that are not just stylish, but deeply personal and meaningful. We explore the importance of every detail, from the choice of colors and textures to the arrangement of cherished possessions. Learn how styling isn't just about aesthetics. Whether you're a seasoned interior enthusiast or someone embarking on your first styling adventure, this episode promises a treasure trove of insights and ideas. Don't miss this dose of design inspiration.

In this episode join us as we sit down with Jo from Elliott Clarke, a true connoisseur of textiles, who's been working in the industry for over 10 years. In this captivating conversation, we explore the art of choosing the perfect fabric for your space, whether it's for upholstery, drapery, or decorative accents. Discover the secrets of pairing fabrics with different design styles, and learn how textures can elevate the ambiance of any space. Jo shares her expertise on the latest trends, sustainable fabric choices, and the timeless classics that never go out of style. Whether you're a seasoned designer or someone passionate about creating a cozy home, this episode is your gateway to the enchanting world of fabrics. 

In this episode we delve deep into the intricate art of scale and proportion in interior design. We unravel the mysteries behind finding the ideal size for every element in your space, from rugs to beds, couches, and even lighting fixtures.Join us as we explore the crucial balance between scale and proportion, demystifying the complexities and empowering you with practical insights. Discover the secrets to creating visually appealing and harmonious interiors that feel just right. We discuss choosing the perfect-sized furniture, rugs that anchor a room without overwhelming it, and lighting fixtures that illuminate with grace. Learn how to make every piece in your space not only fit but flourish, creating an ambiance that's both inviting and aesthetically pleasing.

In this episode, we talk with the exceptionally talented interior designer, Melissa Balzan. We embark on a journey through Melissa's career, exploring her early inspirations, pivotal moments, and the passion that ignited her love for interior design and for creating beautiful, functional spaces that reflect her clients' unique personalities and lifestyles.Melissa also shares her insights into current design trends, the importance of understanding client needs, and the transformative power of a well-designed space. Whether you're an aspiring designer or simply curious about the magic of interior spaces, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration.

In this episode we talk about the ever-evolving world of interior design. Join us for a discussion that spans from the latest color palettes to innovative design concepts, and even the transformation of lighting into a statement piece. We also dive deep into the profound impact of COVID-19 on the way we perceive and design our living spaces. Discover how our homes have evolved into multifunctional havens, why apartment living is on the rise, and why open-plan living has dominated Australian design for the past decade.

In this captivating episode of The Design Duet, we have the privilege of sitting down with the incredible minds behind Zuster Furniture, Wilhelmina McCarroll and Fleur Sibbel. Join us as we delve into their inspiring journey of creating a brand that epitomizes elegance, creativity, and timeless design. Listen as we explore the story of Zuster Furniture from how it begun to where it is now. From their early inspirations to the challenges of entrepreneurship, Wilhelmina and Fleur share their wisdom, insights, and the passion that fuels their business. Discover how Zuster's dedication to quality, innovation, and aesthetics has established them as leaders in the design industry.

In this podcast, we discuss the diverse ways designers approach costing, and why there's no one-size-fits-all formula.  We'll navigate through a variety of factors that influence fee structures, from project scope and complexity to experience and industry standards.We explain the importance of clear communication when discussing costs, ensuring both parties are aligned on expectations and values and discover how designers work within different parameters to deliver exceptional results while respecting financial boundaries.Whether you're a design professional or someone considering embarking on a design journey, this episode provides invaluable insights into how transparent fee structures lay the foundation for successful partnerships and remarkable design outcomes.

Our very first interview!  In this special episode, join us as we sit down with an amazing client Liz who entrusted us with bringing their vision to life. We share the journey from concept to reality, exploring the power of understanding our client's vision and translating it into a stunning design.  This conversation explores the challenges, triumphs, and joys that come with transforming houses into homes that leave a lasting impact.

Step into the enchanting world of Salone del Mobile Milano, the ultimate design event that sets the global stage for creativity and innovation. In this exclusive bonus episode, join us as Chrissie asks Caroline to recount her experience at this prestigious design fair. Chrissie delves deep into Caroline's journey through the bustling halls, where cutting-edge designs, extraordinary furniture, and the latest trends come to life.

A week in the life of us as designers. We go into detail about how we source and what our weeks look like. 

Welcome to our first episode. We started this podcast as people kept asking about the world of interior design. Throughout this podcast we will talk about all things interior decoration and design, our process from start to finish, and we will also bring along our design friends to get their insights into the industry.