Designer Profile: Jane Stark, Principal and Designer of Stark Design

Name: Jane Stark
Company: Stark Design
Position within company: Principal / Designer
Website: www.starkdesign.com.au

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I have studied both Interior and Landscape Design and view the home as a unified combination of inside and outdoor living spaces. This is unique to the Australian design industry. After providing services as an interior designer for many years I came to the belief that the success of an interior is rendered even more successful when both indoor and outdoor spaces speak to one another. My dual affection for interiors and landscapes gives rise to a unified and seamless design aesthetic that is so very well suited to the Australian lifestyle and climate.

How would you describe your personal design style?
Understated, relaxed luxury, subtle layering and naturally pure fibres. We believe in the slow movement of interior design. Interiors that are built slowly, layer upon layer using quality products. Buy well, buy once. Advocates of interiors that feel like they have evolved over time, we love supporting local design and artisans and designing homes that are intensely personal.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
Nature. Always.
Best texture. Best colour combinations.
Organic, curvaceous, natural.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
The embracing of natural curvaceous shapes and use of natural textures. Clever combinations of vintage and new design. More quality, less disposable. Buy well, buy once.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
1. Support local designers and artisans 2. Build the design slowly, layer upon layer. 3. Connect the interior to the exterior. 4. Design to last 5. Use vintage, draw on the best of the past

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Remember we are creating homes, not just ‘interiors’. Build them layer, upon layer. Slowly. Collaborate. Include the accoutrements of life; art, sculpture, photos and sentimental treasures to make a room unique and intensely personal. Always mix old and new. Draw on the past, patina, patina, patina.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
The International Design & Architecture Awards are vital to our clients and the interior design community alike. They recognise excellence in design and showcase the work of leading professional designers to both the local and international design community and clients. Additionally, they promote the critical role of engaging the professional design community.

What projects are you currently working on?
Current projects include the sympathetic modernisation of an historical family home and the restoration of a grand Victorian terrace house.
Recent projects include the renovation of a large family home in one of Sydney’s leafy suburbs, the glamorous update of a harbourside apartment and a striking sculptural entrance garden.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Tread more lightly on our earth

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession? A Vintage Danish sterling silver bracelet
Your favourite holiday destination? France
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar? The Restaurant at Graanmarkt 13, Antwerp, Belguim
Your favourite book, film & song? I love music, books AND films – too many favourites to single out one, very mood driven. Suskind’s Perfume, Elegance of the Hedgehog – both the book and film, Ismael Lo and Marianne Faithful Singing Without Blame, any song about the moon.
Your favourite food and drink? Simple grilled crustaceans, crusty sourdough, fresh cheese, ripe stone fruit and wine of course
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? Visiting art galleries, listening to live music, gardening or reading
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?  Working with words or food
Anything else interesting? Originally from the Land of the Long White Cloud, Aotearoa, New Zealand