Name: Mardi Doherty
Company: Doherty Design Studio
Position within Company: Director
Website: www.dohertydesignstudio.com.au
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
Completed Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design in 1994, and have had a combination of local and international experience, ranging from high end residential to retail and hospitality.
How would you describe your personal interior design style?
Classic and timeless with a touch of unexpected or whimsy. The interiors we design have a lightness to them, in form and in finish. There is a definite bespoke element to all our work, and we find beauty in the detailing of forms.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Many things including travelling, everyday life, my amazing team of designers, random thoughts and my constant source of inspiration is Instagram & Pinterest.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense? Towards a more considered eclectic look, with clarity and boldness. There is a definite move towards using natural products, and in regard to planning there is a real shift back to separate rooms rather than open minimalist spaces.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2014 and beyond.
- Consideration of environment and the social impact of our designs
- Longevity of products
- In residential design we need to consider the connection between the indoors and the outdoors. As homes get smaller the connection with nature becomes more important.
- In retail design the importance of creating a shopping experience for the customer that resonates with the brand.
- To respect the history of architecture and design, and to use the wisdom of the past designers to inspire us and guide our future designs.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
To put most of your effort into the planning stage, and consider how natural and artificial light can enhance a space.
How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
Very important, as it gives us an International Platform to showcase our designs.
What projects are you currently working on?
A Spice store in Sydney, and many exciting local residential projects.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To build our team of young designers and to engage with many trusting, inspiring clients
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself…
Your most treasured possession? A large painting I bought when I was at university, by Ronnie Tjampitjinpa
Your favourite holiday destination? Ravello in Italy
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar? Hotel; St Martins Lane London, restaurant; Sketch, London, bar; Ochre Wine Bistro, Oia Greece (overlooking the ocean, with incredible sunsets)
Your favourite book / film / song? Book; Quickhoney by Gary Hurle, Film; Little Miss Sunshine, Song; Follow the sun by Xavier Rudd
Your favourite food and drink? Food; White rose dumplings from Miss Ly’s in Hoi Ann, favourite drink is a Mojito
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? To spend an afternoon visiting Heide Art gallery, play tennis and spend time with family and friends
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? A photographer, or an art buyer