Name: Patricia Stewart
Company: Stewart + Stewart Design
Position within company: Founding Partner + Principal
Website: www.stewart-stewart.com.au
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I graduated with a degree in Design from the University of South Australia and have over 25 years experience in the design industry. A year ago my son James and I merged our passion and skills to become a creative force to project forward into the future together. We are a boutique studio specialising in highly personalised and bespoke luxury residential projects. Our focus is to create spaces imbued with history and a sense of timelessness that equates to sanctuary.
How would you describe your personal design style?
My personal style is drawn from a passion for architectural fragments that capture a moment in history, and then juxtaposing these elements within a pared back discipline.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Cultural artefacts, textures and patterns in nature and architecture.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
More than ever we will strive to harness and create a strong sense of safety and wellbeing.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
1 Celebration of individuality
2 Sustainability
3 Creating spaces of joy
4 Focus on security and sanctuary
5 Nurturing artisan skills
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Draw inspiration and direction from the immediate environment to celebrate the space.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
The International Design and Architecture Awards are extremely important as they provide an essential platform of significance to showcase and celebrate innovative and exciting design.
What projects are you currently working on?
A multi-level waterfront residence, a series of luxury development residences, a highly bespoke rural residence, the restoration of a an original Art Deco residence and historic Whaling cottage, as well as other ongoing long term projects.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To consolidate our partnership, and diversification into other design sectors.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession? A limited-edition amber resin Tony Duquette pagoda lantern.
Your favourite holiday destination? Paris!
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar? The Selman Marrakech, Azuma Japanese restaurant private room, Charlie Parker’s.
Your favourite book, film & song? Say Her Name by Francisco Goldman, Memoirs of a Geisha, What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong.
Your favourite food and drink? Slow cooked Saltbush lamb, and an organic chamomile tea sweetened with Jarrah honey.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? Discovering the world all over again with my joyful granddaughter Chloe Lara.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? A set designer or a lawyer.
Anything else interesting? Navigating the world personally balancing two contrasting cultures.