Shows
Design AnatomyDesign InterludeTaking a breath between creative bursts is essential for fresh thinking, which is why we're pausing briefly mid-season. Don't worry—this isn't goodbye, but a moment to reset before returning with conversations featuring iconic designers and emerging voices who are reshaping how we think about spaces.While we're away, Bree has opened bookings for her game-changing 90-minute design consultations. These focused sessions tackle your specific home challenges—from colour selection paralysis to furniture arrangement dilemmas—delivering personalised guidance without requiring a full-service commitment. You'll walk away with a comprehensive written report containing all her recommendations, giving you the co...2025-07-2403 min
Design AnatomyBuilding Laughs: How Nick White Turned Architecture into Comedy GoldNick White shares his remarkable journey from drafting buildings to crafting punchlines. With the sharp observation skills of an architect and the timing of a seasoned comedian, Nick reveals how he transitioned from designing spaces to creating characters that have captured the hearts of over half a million followers online.Having trained as an architect and worked in prestigious firms from Brisbane to New York, Nick found himself increasingly drawn to comedy, performing at open mics after long days in the office. What started as a creative outlet gradually revealed itself as his true calling. His honest...2025-07-1644 min
Design AnatomyNatural Living by Design: Melissa Penfold's Sustainable Design PhilosophyStepping into a beautiful home isn't simply about admiring aesthetics—it's about experiencing how deeply our surroundings affect our wellbeing. Design authority Melissa Penfold joins us to reveal the philosophy behind her stunning new book "Natural Living by Design," where timeless style meets environmental consciousness.Melissa shares how her childhood beach house, with its weathered wood and connection to nature, shaped her understanding of nurturing spaces. This early influence sparked a career that would help countless Australians reimagine their homes as sanctuaries. The conversation unfolds with practical wisdom about creating spaces that ground us through natural materials—plas...2025-07-0955 min
Design AnatomyCelebrating 25 Years of David Hicks: A Legacy of Timeless DesignSymmetry, structure, warmth, and a sense of materiality that's instantly recognisable – these are the hallmarks of David Hicks' approach to design, a philosophy he's refined over an impressive 25-year career. We sit down with this influential Australian designer to trace his evolution from what critics once described as "minimalist purity" to what he now calls "decorative minimalism."David's journey began with his own apartment in Melbourne's converted Red Tulip Factory, a project that established his meticulous approach to design. Working with a grid system based on 600mm terrazzo tiles, he created a space where every joinery line al...2025-07-0250 min
Design AnatomyThe Waitlist That Changed Everything with Luke FryWhat begins as an accidental career path often leads to the most extraordinary destinations. Luke Fry's journey exemplifies this perfectly—originally waitlisted for graphic design, he reluctantly accepted a spot in interior design at Swinburne University, never imagining it would become the foundation for his acclaimed architectural practice two decades later.Growing up with a builder father and brother, Luke had construction in his blood. "I was on building sites from the day I could walk," he shares, revealing how this early exposure proved invaluable when he later obtained his builder's registration alongside his design qualifications. This ra...2025-06-2545 min
Design AnatomyKitchens Reimagined with Loren Inglis of VzugThe humble kitchen has evolved from a purely functional space into the vibrant heart of our homes, but what's next in this evolution? In this fascinating conversation with Loren Inglis, Regional Business Development Manager at Vzug, we explore how kitchen design is entering its next phase as "the third space" – where technology, aesthetics, and authentic living intersect.Loren pulls back the curtain on how professional-grade appliances are transforming home cooking experiences, making restaurant-quality results accessible to everyone from passionate home chefs to self-proclaimed "reheaters." We dive into unexpected innovations like the Refresh Butler, which uses steam technology to...2025-06-1847 min
Design AnatomyMilan in review: The Beautiful Chaos of Milan Design Week with Alvin WuThe beautiful chaos of Milan Design Week comes alive through the fresh eyes of first-time attendee Alvin Wu, brand manager at Niche Media. What began as a career in interior design evolved into finding his true passion within the design community—organizing events like the "30 Under 30" program that recognizes emerging design talent through mentorship and a creativity retreat in Bali.Drawn to Milan with the hope of experiencing a quieter edition during a non-Euroluce year, Alvin quickly discovered the reality: design week has surpassed fashion week in popularity, with half a million visitors descending upon a city no...2025-06-1138 min
Design AnatomyMilan in review: Georgina Wilson’s Viral Approach to ArchitectureArchitect Georgina Wilson joins us to share her remarkable journey from traditional practice to social media phenomenon. What began as a simple experiment on TikTok — "because no one I knew was on it" — unexpectedly transformed her 25-year architectural career and business model. Today, her viral design content reaches hundreds of thousands of followers, and her firm operates "as if from the moon," providing virtual design consultations to clients worldwide.Georgina's success stems from her refreshingly straightforward approach. Frustrated by how architects typically communicate only with other designers through meaningless jargon, she decided to speak directly to what she...2025-06-041h 04
Design AnatomyThe Milan in review series: Sculpting Light with Oliver WilcoxThe Milan in review series: Sculpting Light with Oliver WilcoxWhat happens when an artist turns lighting designer? Oliver Wilcox's journey from fine arts graduate to founder of the cutting-edge Lost Profile Studio reveals the magic that occurs at the intersection of art and function.Oliver's story begins with a fortuitous volunteer position at Christopher Boots' lighting studio that evolved into managing production for one of Australia's most innovative lighting designers. But it was during a trip to Paris when everything clicked into place. Standing before a portrait painting in the famed Paris Fleas antique...2025-05-2849 minDesign AnatomyThe Design Anatomy Tour Recap: What Paris and Milan Can Teach UsWelcome back for Season 2 of The Design Anatomy podcast! After our incredible travel adventure with a fabulous group of design enthusiasts on our very first Design Anatomy Tour, we're buzzing to share what we discovered & experienced abroad.Stepping into private Parisian and Milanese apartments was truly a pinch-us experience. From artist, Paul Mouginot's classic pre-Haussmann apartment to Architect & designer Sophie Dries' home in Paris, to Christian and Francesco's colour-drenched Milan apartment and the stunning former villa curated by the Droulers Architecture sisters – each space revealed secrets that photos simply cannot capture. These weren't just beautiful home...2025-05-2146 minDesign AnatomyPassport to Style: The Design Anatomy TourTwenty episodes down, and what a journey it's been! Lauren and Bree reflect on Design Anatomy's debut season while sharing exciting news about where the podcast is heading next—literally. With Paris and Milan firmly in their sights, the hosts are taking The Design Anatomy on the road through exclusive, intimate design tours. Unlike typical tourist experiences, these adventures are crafted for just eight design enthusiasts who'll dine at one table, explore premier showrooms, and immerse themselves in global design destinations. They reveal that their first Paris - Milan tour sold out instantly, proving there's a genuine hun...2025-03-2503 min
Design AnatomyReinventing Classics: A conversation with Simone HaagRecorded in front of a live audience from the gorgeous Living Edge showroom here in Melbourne, this special episode celebrates our official launch of The Design Anatomy podcast last year. Hosts Bree Banfield and Lauren Li engage in a wonderful discussion with renowned stylist & interior decorator Simone Haag. We explore the intersection of classic design and modern creativity, delving into how iconic pieces like the Eames Lounge Chair continue to influence contemporary aesthetics. The conversation highlights the importance of personal stories in design, the challenges of sourcing unique furniture, and the evolving nature of design tr...2025-03-1251 minDesign AnatomyDesign Mistakes: Admitting Our Interior Design FailsJoin us for a candid and entertaining exploration of the funny and humbling side of interior design as we share our biggest mistakes and the lessons they taught us. From disastrous color choices in children's rooms to the importance of careful client involvement, we cover a range of design fails that all professionals face at some point in their careers. By recounting our blunders, we hope to inspire and educate aspiring designers about the realities of the profession and the invaluable insights that come from mistakes. As we discuss how to avoid the pitfalls of over-promising or u...2025-03-0545 min
Design AnatomyRuby Shields on Pursuing Passion and Redefining Success in Interior DesignWhat motivates someone to leave a successful career path and venture into the unknown? Ruby Shields did just that when she bid farewell to her flourishing advertising career to embrace her true passion: interior design. Join us as Ruby opens up about the pivotal moment at 27 when she realized she had to make a drastic change for personal happiness. Ruby’s journey is marked by the courage to take risks, driven by advice from her father and a tenacity cultivated since childhood. Her story underscores the importance of making life choices that align with personal fulfillment, even when it me...2025-02-261h 15Design AnatomyBad Interior Design AdviceEver wondered if your open floor plan is more of a hassle than a haven? Discover why Bree Banfield and Lauren Li think it might be time to rethink this modern design staple. We explore the hidden pitfalls of open layouts, from echoing acoustics to the woeful wafts of last night’s dinner. With a fresh perspective on furniture placement and clever solutions like sliding doors, we invite you to rethink how you can achieve both openness and functionality in your home.Creating a home that caters to family dynamics often means reimagining spaces to balance togetherness an...2025-02-1938 min
Design AnatomySophie Dries on Embracing the Genius Loci in Interior DesignWhat happens when the timeless elegance of historical architecture meets the chic allure of contemporary design? Join us as we explore the fascinating world of the new French look, where iconic architectural elements blend seamlessly with modern aesthetics. In this episode, French Architect & Designer Sophie Dries shares the inspiration behind the project that features on the cover of the The New French Look, and reveals the delightful encounter with actress Julianne Moore, whose admiration for Sophie's work led to an unexpected friendship. Using her own apartment as a canvas, she illustrates the delicate balance of honoring traditional Parisian charm...2025-02-121h 03Design AnatomyImmersive Colour Filled InteriorsDiscover the transformative power of color and how it shapes our personal spaces like never before. We're stepping away from the ubiquitous cool grays and venturing into the warmth of browns, beiges, and yellows, colors that not only redefine our palettes but also the very atmosphere of our interiors. Join us as we explore the resurgence of nostalgic hues like chocolate and espresso, bringing comfort and a sense of homeliness. We highlight the importance of harmonious undertones and how they can create those inviting, cohesive environments we all crave.Reflect on the bold, charismatic colors of the...2025-02-0540 min
Design AnatomyRedefining Luxury: Nickolas Gurtler on Personal Style and Timeless DesignRenowned interior designer Nickolas Gurtler invites us to rethink the concept of luxury in our homes. He shares his unique experiences working on projects like a menopause clinic and a lively New York apartment, emphasizing that luxury is a personal journey, not just a display of wealth. Discover how Nickolas's perspective on luxury intertwines comfort, functionality, and personal flair, as well as the growing appeal of vintage pieces. With recent accolades such as a Vogue feature and a new book project, Nickolas offers listeners a peek into the creative mind behind stunning, personalized spaces.Our conversation takes...2025-01-291h 02Design AnatomyWarmth and Style: Kitchens in 2025Imagine a kitchen that feels like a cozy haven, an eclectic blend of personal style and practical design. In this episode of Design Anatomy, we unlock the secrets to transforming your kitchen space from a minimalist, concealed setup to a warm, lived-in masterpiece that truly reflects who you are. Learn why the shift towards natural materials and personal touches is redefining what it means to have a modern kitchen in 2025. We promise you'll walk away with a fresh perspective on creating spaces that are not just functional, but brimming with character and individuality.Our journey doesn't stop...2025-01-2344 min
Design AnatomyThe Intersection of AI and Interior Photography with Tom BlachfordCan AI redefine the creative boundaries of photography? Join us as we explore this captivating question with Tom Blachford, a distinguished architecture and interiors photographer who has ventured into the intriguing realm of AI art. Tom reveals his journey through the intersection of AI and interior photography, sharing insights from his recent high-profile projects, such as an AI art commission for the innovative restaurant, Tombo Den. We dive into the transformative impact of AI on creative professions and grapple with the ethical dilemmas and aesthetic shifts it introduces.Discover how AI tools like Midjourney and ChatGPT are...2025-01-151h 02Design AnatomyThe Top 7 Interior Design Trends 2025Unlock the secrets of 2025's most exciting interior design trends with us, Bree Banfield and Lauren Li. Ever wonder how trends sneak their way into your home, even if you’re not paying attention? We'll reveal the subtle ways in which early adopters, cultural moments, and even global moods influence the environments we create around us. From Meryl Streep's iconic fashion monologue in "The Devil Wears Prada" to the art of trend forecasting, discover how these elements shape the spaces we love and why staying informed is crucial for both professionals and enthusiasts. Join our vibrant discussion on...2025-01-1052 min
Design AnatomyEmbracing Maximalism: Evie Kemp on Colourful Home Design and Personal StyleEver wondered how colour can transform your living space into a vibrant reflection of your personality? Discover the secrets with the incredibly talented Evie Kemp, as she shares her journey from childhood inspirations to embracing maximalism in home design. Evie’s new book MUCH, is a radiant celebration of colour and bold choices, guiding you to break free from the confines of minimalism. Together, we explore how colour can evoke joy and how personal experiences shape our design preferences, creating homes that truly resonate with who we are.Join us for a lively conversation about the emotional po...2025-01-0852 min
Design AnatomyBringing Nostalgia into Retail & Residential Interiors with Brahman PereraJoin us on an insightful journey with the talented designer Brahman Perera as we uncover the past year's highlights in interior design. Ever wondered how rest can spark creativity, or how the cultural tapestry influences your work? Brahman shares his unique perspective on the power of taking a step back for innovation and how embracing one's cultural identity can transform design. We also highlight the heartwarming generosity within the design community and how these bonds foster genuine friendships and mutual support, especially in vibrant cities like Melbourne.Explore the fascinating intersection of diversity and design...2024-12-181h 07Design AnatomyInterior Design Trends to Leave Behind in 2024Ever wondered how a simple color can encapsulate the mood of an entire era? Join us as we unpack Pantone's 2025 Color of the Year, "Mocha Moose," a warm neutral brown that speaks volumes about the world's yearning for comfort and security amidst economic unpredictability. This nostalgic shade echoes early 2000s design trends, highlighting how past styles are reshaping modern interiors. Navigate the often overwhelming world of interior design trends with us, as we advocate for personal style and individuality over conformity. Trends can serve as a source of inspiration, but they shouldn't dictate your personal tastes. With a...2024-12-1157 min
Design AnatomyDesigning for the Senses: Sarah Ellison on Timeless Trends and Creative InnovationRenowned designer Sarah Ellison joins us to uncover the vibrant tapestry of her career, from her early experiences at Real Living to the exciting launch of her new venture, Sarah Ellison Creative. With a unique blend of humour and insight, Sarah discusses the transformative influence of social media on the magazine industry and shares her intuitive approach to anticipating design trends, likening it to the data-driven precision of AI. Her background in fashion and publishing has not only honed her trend-spotting skills but also sparked her passion to explore new creative realms beyond her successful furniture business Ellison Studios2024-12-0457 min