Behind The Design
Behind the Design is a podcast that brings you closer to the projects, people, and untold stories behind the Pinterest saves you’ve been obsessing over for years. Hosted by Camilla Ingall, interior designer and founder of Unfolded, each episode goes beyond the finished photos to unpack how great design actually comes to life through honest conversations with designers, architects, stylists, builders, and creatives. If you care about thoughtful design and want a deeper understanding of what really goes on behind the scenes, you’re in the right place.
Episodes
55. Why Builders Aren't Charging Enough: Andrew George on AI, Pre-Construction and Systems For Builders
Two years ago, Andrew George sat in this chair known as the Passive House guy. Now he's back, and he's not so sure he ever was. In this return conversation, the owner of Lou Projects looks back on the hardest stretch of his career: a run of complex projects, rushed contracts, countless variations, supply issues and long-distance jobs that left his business running on fumes, all while build
54. Chloe Matters on Walking Away From Tom Mark Henry to Build Something More True
Chloe Matters co-founded Tom Mark Henry, one of Sydney's most recognised design studios, and then walked away from it. Pregnant and working hours that left no room for family, she stepped back to work out what kind of mother, designer and business owner she actually wanted to be. That reset became Matters and Made, a studio known for calm, tonal, deeply tactile homes.In this episode, Camilla and C
53. 20 Years of Woods & Warner: What Running a Design Studio Really Takes
Twenty years ago, Sonia Warner and Jacinta Woods started Woods & Warner with two people, no plan B and a shared goal of creating beautiful spaces. Today they lead a seven-person Sydney studio, and most of what they know about running it was learned the hard way.In this episode, Camilla sits down with both directors for an honest look at what it really takes to build a design studio that lasts.
52. I Studied Law to Hide Who I Was. Design Brought Me Back
What happens when a designer spends years pursuing the practical path before finally trusting his creative instincts?Stefan Vignogna of Bespoke Joinery Design built his career around bespoke kitchens, considered interiors and technical expertise. In this episode of Behind the Design, he joins Camilla Ingall to share the personal and professional decisions that shaped his journey, from studying law
51. From Small Styling Business to Large-Scale Operation | Bowerbird Interiors
Bowerbird Interior’s success isn’t just a story about beautiful design. It’s a story about what happens when the business behind the design keeps getting bigger. Lauren Lewis, co-founder of Bowerbird Interior, joins Camilla to explore the side of the design industry we rarely see: the people, systems, logistics and commercial decisions behind the finished spaces.What started as a property styling
50. Interior Designers Reveal What Really Goes On Behind The Design
What do two successful designers admit when there is no guest to interview and the questions are coming straight back at them? Sarah Reid is the host of Her Design Her Story, and in this special episode of Behind the Design, Camilla Ingall and Sarah Reid turn the questions on each other, reflecting on the careers, shows, businesses and lessons that have shaped where they are today.As the conversat
49. From Granny Flat Scam to Luxury Property Development
What happens when the business you're building almost ends before it really begins?Phil and Lina Strati, the husband-and-wife team behind L.P StratiCo Builders and Aesthetic Developments, share the real story behind their journey from secure corporate and construction careers to building businesses of their own.It wasn't a straight line. After quitting their jobs in the most unexpected way
48. A Builder’s Guide to Luxury, Design & Construction With Jakin Luxury Living
What actually makes a home luxurious? According to luxury builder James from Jakin Luxury Living, it has far less to do with expensive finishes and far more to do with how a home performs, feels and supports the way you live.In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with James, founder of Jakin Luxury Living, to unpack what really goes into building high-end residential homes and why the be
47. Why Lighting Matters More Than You Think | Objects for Thought
Lighting is often one of the last things considered in a project, but it can completely change how we experience a space, from the way materials and colours are perceived to how the room actually feels. In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Jay and CJ, founders of Objects for Thought, to explore the thinking, process and business decisions behind their contemporary lighting brand.T
46. Why Furniture Hire Matters More Than You Think | Huntley + Co
When people think about preparing a home for sale, they usually picture the finished styling. What they don't see is everything happening behind the scenes to make that transformation possible.In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Amy Smith, founder of Huntley + Co, a Sydney-based furniture hire business created specifically to support property stylists, interior designers and crea
45. How to Choose the Right Stone Without Costly Mistakes | Nathan Karpenko, CAV'ART
Choosing natural stone is about far more than aesthetics.In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Nathan Karpenko, co-owner of CAV'ART Designer Stone, to explore what really happens behind the scenes when selecting one of the most important materials in a home.Nathan shares his journey from working in luxury hotels to leading one of Australia's most respected natural stone sup
44. Service Over Style: Chris Trotta on Building a Sustainable Architecture Business
What actually keeps an architecture business alive past the first project?Most people judge an architecture firm by the finished home. The clean lines, the light-filled kitchen, the project that lands on Instagram. Behind that image sits a business built on budget conversations, team trust, and a reputation that took years to earn.In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Chris Trotta,
43. Design vs Styling: The Hidden Steps Behind Every Great Project with Bea Lambos
What does an interior stylist actually do?It's a role that most people only notice in the final image. The beautifully photographed home, the perfectly layered living room, or the project that lands in a magazine. But behind those images is a creative process that most people never see.In this episode of “Behind The Design”, I sit down with interior stylist Bea Lambos to talk about the world o
42. Building the Vision: A Builder's Perspective on Design with JW Projects
A beautiful home rarely tells the full story.Behind every completed project is a team navigating site constraints, heritage restrictions, unforeseen challenges, client expectations, and hundreds of decisions that never make it into the final photographs.In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Jack Williams, founder of JW Projects, to unpack the realities of residential construction i
41. Scaling a Trade Supply Business with GatherCo
Finished homes, polished brands, and resolved details are what we usually see. What’s less visible is the pressure underneath: the hard decisions, constant judgment calls, and the reality of sustaining growth.James McCarthy knows that reality well.In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with James McCarthy, co-founder of GatherCo, a trade-only supplier in the architecture and interiors in
40. Inside Folk Studio: People-First Design and the Discipline of No
Colour gets the attention, but it is rarely where the real work happens.Mariah Burton built Folk Studio on something quieter than a signature aesthetic, a belief that the person living in the space is always the starting point and that the brief is never really the Pinterest board, the budget, or the timeline. It is the human being sitting across from you at that first meeting, and everything that
39. Inside Cosentino: How Stone Innovation Is Redefining Surfaces
Most material decisions are still driven by aesthetics. But the real shift is happening in safety, performance, and sustainability, the layers a renovator or end user often doesn’t see, and rarely gets guided through. That’s the conversation missing across the broader industry.In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Erin Payne from Cosentino to explore how one of the world’s leading
38. Details That Define Merivale: Secrets of Great Design with Nasim Köerting
From chasing design milestones to discovering what truly makes work meaningful, this episode takes you behind the scenes of large-scale hospitality design.In this episode of Behind the Design Podcast, I chat with Nasim Köerting, Design Director at Merivale, about the realities of leading some of Australia’s most recognised hospitality projects. From her early career in London to managing complex,
37. Beyond Trends: Creating Timeless Design with Nelli Hegi
“Design doesn’t need to please everyone. Designers like McQueen, Schiaparelli, and Margiela showed me that discomfort, exaggeration, and vulnerability aren’t flaws—they’re tools.”In this episode of Behind the Design, I talk with Nelli Hegi, founder and creative director of Hegi Design House, about creating furniture that’s more than functional, it tells a story. Nelli blends furniture, art, fashio
36. Bespoke Furniture vs Scalable Design: Tim Noone’s Approach
From kitchen joinery to high-end design, this is what it takes to turn craft into a sustainable business.In this episode of Behind the Design Podcast, I sit down with furniture maker Tim Noone, founder of Tim Noone Furniture, to talk about his journey from kitchen joinery to creating high-end custom furniture. He shares the challenges of crafting beautiful pieces while keeping a business sustainab
35. Setting Boundaries as an Interior Designer (Without Losing Clients)
Building a design studio is often celebrated as creative freedom, yet many founders discover that without boundaries, success can start to feel unsustainable.In this episode, I sat down with Kate Lawrence, founder of Kate Lawrence Interiors and bedding brand Sleep Ins, to unpack the real story behind building and reshaping a creative business.Kate speaks candidly about:• Saying yes to everything,
34. Inside the Process: How Luxury Joinery Is Really Built
Behind every beautiful piece of joinery is a series of decisions, conversations, and mistakes no one ever seesIn this episode, I sat down with Luke from Élan Joinery and SKUPA, to talk through what really goes into custom joinery and furniture, beyond the finished photos. From early planning and material selection to timelines, teamwork, and trust, Luke shares how thoughtful joinery is built aroun
33. From Vintage Store to National Brand: The MCM House Story
Trends come and go, but brands built on craft, instinct, and resilience tend to stick around.In this episode of Behind the Design, host Camilla Ingall sits down with Charles Hinckfuss, founder and creative force behind MCM House.Charlie shares the unpolished reality behind building one of Australia’s most recognisable furniture brands, from early days focused purely on survival, to growing a natio
32. Quiet Luxury Explained: Inside Daniel Boddam’s Design Philosophy
Design doesn’t need to shout to make an impact.In this episode of Behind the Design, Camilla Ingall sits down with Daniel Boddam, founder of Daniel Boddam Studio, to unpack his philosophy of quiet living; a design approach rooted in restraint, calm, and deep respect for the Australian landscape.Daniel shares his journey from architecture into furniture design, why he deliberately plays the long ga
31. From Designer to Owner-Builder: Lessons Learned on the Job with Stephanie Ferrara
In this episode, Camilla sits down with Stephanie Ferrara, founder of Laidback Lee Design, to explore how she built a growing design studio while renovating her own family home as an owner-builder and raising two young daughters. Steph shares how a Covid job cut sparked her leap into business, what she’s learned from flipping character homes, and how stepping onto site as a woman and now a builder
30. Women Redefining Leadership Through Creative, Multidisciplinary Design
In this episode, Camilla sits down with Dani Dean, founder of The Make Haus, to explore the evolution of her multidisciplinary studio, spanning florals, interiors, spatial design, commercial installations, and standout projects like the David Jones Flower Show.Together, we unpack what it truly looks like to juggle creativity, business, and motherhood. Dani shares why she refuses to niche down, how
29. The Art & Science of Facade Design: How Troy Donovan Shapes Iconic Buildings
This episode of Behind the Design features Troy Donovan, Principal Facade Designer at Prism Facades, whose work bridges architecture, engineering, and creative storytelling. From sketching in a notebook to leading large-scale projects with firms like Grimshaw Architects, Troy shares how facade design shapes the way we experience buildings, from the Sydney Opera House to the Australian War Memorial
28. Creative Burnout, Boundaries & The Business of Design - Lessons from Smac Studio
This episode of Behind the Design features Shona McElroy from Smac Studio, one of Australia’s most exciting emerging interior designers. What began as a side project has evolved into a thriving studio known for its bold use of materials, thoughtful detail, and high-end residential interiors that balance precision with personality.In this honest and grounded conversation, Shona opens up about the r
27. How Vicello Built a Thriving Joinery Studio Without a Plan
This episode of Behind the Design features Leon and Victoria Pirrello, the couple behind Vicello. What began in their garage has grown into a thriving joinery and design studio with a team, factory spaces, and a reputation for delivering bespoke interiors across NSW. Their journey is one of courage, collaboration, and saying yes to projects that stretched them well beyond their comfort zone.They s
26. Redefining Interior Design: AI, Construction & Female Insight with Jenn Bliss
This episode is a true reflection of creativity, resilience, and the beauty of turning life’s challenges into meaningful design. In this episode of Behind the Design, we sit down with Jenn Bliss, the visionary behind some of Port Stephens’ most admired homes, including the much-loved Talm Beach House.What began as a love for interiors sparked in childhood has grown into a career that blends design
25. Inside the World of Interior Styling: Laura Rees' Journey & Styling Secrets
This episode is a true testament to the power of taking risks, following your creative instincts, and the beauty of building a business that reflects your passion. In this episode of Behind the Design, we chat with Laura, the creative mind behind Laura Rees Styling. What began as a leap into freelancing has grown into a thriving interior styling business, bringing unique and personal touches to sp
24. Interior Design with Soul: Nina’s Story Behind Paloma Studios and That 70s Bungalow
This chat felt especially authentic and creatively energising. What began as a passion project has unfolded into a full-bodied creative business: storytelling through space, reimagining nostalgic design moments, building community, and saying "why not?"In this episode of Behind the Design, Camilla sits down with Nina, the creative founder of Paloma Studios and the visionary behind That 70s Bungalo
23. Creating Functional Art Inspired By Nature - This is Dimitris Story
In episode 23 of Behind the Design, we sit down with Dimitri Vargas, the visionary behind a flourishing custom furniture business that specialises in handcrafted, Australian-made pieces. Dimitri shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from starting his career in the design world during the 2020 lockdown to now running a successful furniture company. He dives deep into his creative process, t
22. Behind the Success of Studio xOx: Tiling, Trust & Australian-Made Growth
In this episode of Behind the Design, Jonathan Tsoupis takes us through his unique entrepreneurial journey, revealing the story behind his success in the tile and design industry. From humble beginnings as a young tiling apprentice to building a thriving business, Jonathan shares insights into the evolution of his company, Studio xOx. He also dives deep into his mindset on business, work ethic, an
21. The Design - Build Relationship No One Talks About.
In this episode of Behind the Design, I sat down with my producer, Andrew for a candid Q&A session unpacking the real-world process of collaboration in the design and construction industry. From aligning with architects during early-stage planning, working seamlessly with builders to manage schedules and budgets, to guiding clients through joinery decisions - this episode reveals how intention
20. Sculpting Success: Montana Moore’s Story of Transition, Art, and Creative Collaboration
Behind the Design welcomes the incredibly talented Montana Moore, a Sydney-based self-taught mixed-media artist whose creative journey spans from South Africa to Scotland, and now, the Northern Beaches of Australia.From sculptural pieces to layered painted works, Montana’s art is deeply rooted in emotion, texture, and her profound connection to the natural world. In this episode, we explore her tr
19. Why Successful Leaders Must Leave Their Ego Behind with Artisan Exterior
In this episode, we sit down with Craig from Artisan Exterior, a leading name in natural stone surfaces for residential and commercial spaces, for a powerful conversation on creative leadership, brand building, and staying visionary in the fast-evolving world of interior design, architecture, and construction.From humble beginnings—two mobile displays on utes and a single container of stock—Craig
18. The Highs & Lows of Growing a Design Business with Pony Design Co.
In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Natalie from Pony Design Co., a powerhouse in commercial design, including hospitality and retail spaces. As the founder of a women-led business, Natalie shares her journey of carving out a space in the industry and leading with creativity, resilience, and vision.We dive into client relationships, the importance of being on-site, and the hands-on exp
17. From Carpenter to Founding A Global Brand reaching an audience of 3 Million - The Story of The Local Project - Aidan Anderson.
Nine years ago, Aidan Anderson was a carpenter with a passion for design. A single Instagram post with just 30 likes sparked what would become The Local Project - now one of the most influential digital design publications, amassing over 3 million followers. Today, he’s expanding the brand internationally, breaking into the New York market, and redefining the design and architecture media landscap
16. Pushing Boundaries: Redefining Property Development with Dominic Biancardi
In this episode, we sit down with Dominic Biancardi from Podia Development, whose journey from landscape design to property development is as inspiring as it is dynamic. With a rich creative foundation and a fearless drive to learn, Dominic shares how he broke into the industry, the role mentorship played, and the lessons he gained along the way.We delve into the real story behind developers - the
15. Crafting Timeless Projects and Building Surface Gallery with Adrian Zipevski
Join us for a deep dive into the world of interior design and luxury finishes with Adrian Zipevski, co-founder of Surface Gallery. From launching his business at just 17 to becoming a leader in the Australian tile industry, Adrian shares his journey and insights into selecting the perfect materials to elevate any project. In this episode, we explore how the Australian design community is a strong
14. Authenticity in Design: A Conversation with Anna-Carin of ANNA.CARIN
In this episode of Behind the Design, I’m joined by the warm and expressive Anna Carin of ANNA.CARIN. With many years of experience in the design industry, Anna shares her insights on the do’s and don’ts of running a design business, and we discuss the role of AI in our industry, and the power of building authentic client relationships.She opens up about her personal story - a raw and honest refle
13. Innovate, Construct, Sell: The Unique Strategies of a Luxury Builder & Developer - Justin Hill
In this episode, we sit down with Justin Hill of JSH Projects, a dynamic builder and developer based on the Central Coast.Our conversation dives deep into the hustle behind the design and the drive that fuels both his business and personal life. Justin’s energy, fast-paced approach, and commitment to fulfillment in his work and family life are inspiring.As a father of three and a go-getter in the
12. Transforming Spaces: The Art of Landscape Design with Mitch Kushturian of Exotic Living
In Episode 12 of Behind the Design, we dive into the world of landscape design with Mitch Kushturian, the force behind Exotic Living - a well known landscape design studio on Sydney’s North Shore. Mitch reveals the impact of thoughtful design choices, from planting to final reveal, a process that often unfolds over years. He shares his honest, passionate approach to client expectations and the met
11. From Concrete to Community: Building Scout Pilates and Yoga with Founder Lucy Beaumont
Join us as we chat with Lucy Beaumont, owner and founder of Scout Pilates. Lucy’s journey started with a Bachelor of Design, followed by Health Science, and then teacher training, before visiting New York for inspiration and returning to Sydney to establish Scout Pilates & Yoga in St Peters.Lucy is currently working on Scout’s third location, creating another version of their warm, inviting, a
10. Balancing Business, Growth, and Motherhood: A Conversation with fellow interior designer Mia Lake and what sets our services apart
Mia Lake of Mia Lake Interiors shares her journey of balancing success in business, scaling her brand, and navigating motherhood. This episode is something different, as Mia, a fellow interior designer, joins me to explore how we, as designers, each bring our own distinctive approach to the table. We dive into what sets our services apart for clients and share insights on juggling daily demands wh
9. Building NoodCo - Turning Hand Crafted Products Into A Global Business with Chris Walker
Our latest guest Chris Walker, owner and co-founder of Nood Co, shares his incredible journey from his early days as a plasterer to now handcrafting concrete basins in Perth, Australia. In this episode of Behind the Design, Chris takes us back to his childhood, the early garage experiments with concrete, and the setbacks that ultimately led to Nood Co’s success. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the
8. Exploring how prefab construction is revolutionising the housing industry with Ed Callanan, from Fab Prefab
In this episode, we’re diving into the world of prefabricated homes with Ed Callanan from Fab Prefab. We’ll explore how prefab construction is revolutionising the housing industry and discuss the innovative strategies used to maximize small spaces in interior design, and why it's so popular in the current climate. From efficient layouts to clever storage solutions, Ed shares insights on how his te
7. Building a brand from scratch as a couple and balancing industry challenges with Unrivalled Interiors
Join us for episode 7 of Behind the Design: a fun and insightful chat about the importance of building strong relationships with suppliers to ensure successful projects. Unrivalled Interiors shares their journey of creating a brand from scratch, celebrating their achievements as a married couple, insights into their completed and ongoing projects, and our collaborative efforts to achieve beautiful
6. The collaborative approach between designer and architectural photographer, with Luke Shadbolt
We're excited to share episode six where we sat down with Luke Shadbolt from Luke Shadbolt Photography, a talented architectural photographer and artist.We discuss managing relationships while running your own business, staying open to professional opportunities, and Luke’s journey to becoming the successful photographer he is today. We also touched on the importance of focusing on what you love,
5. Building with Integrity: A Conversation with Andrew from Lou Projects
Join us as we sit down with Andrew, the owner and founder of Lou Projects, who is the driving force behind his successful building business. Andrew leads his team of seven with integrity, authenticity, and confidence, building not just homes but a positive industry culture. In this episode, we delve into the importance of good team culture, sustainability in construction, and what these values mea
4. Custom joinery and its influence on the design industry with Huey Makes
We sit down with the talented Hugo, owner and head joiner at Huey Makes to discuss business, the design process and his unique approach to custom projects. We talk through the trust built between designer and joiner, and how it's integral to the success of custom interior projects. By combining our skills and expertise, we meet the brief and continue to create beautiful, functional, and high-quali
3. Unfolding the Designer / Supplier Connection with Loughlin Furniture
Very excited to be sharing our third episode on "Behind the Design" podcast! In this episode, we delve deep into the symbiotic relationship between interior designers like us and our invaluable suppliers who help bring our projects to life. We're thrilled to have the dynamic duo, Jess and Rob from Loughlin Furniture, as our special guests.We discuss the importance of staying in our own lanes, how
2. Design Synergy: Exploring the Relationship Between Interior Designers and Architects with Fabric Architecture
In this podcast series, we dive into the details with our industry experts covering topics such as the creative process, latest design trends and how we, as an industry, work together to meet the brief and overcome challenges. We’re so excited to share episode two with you, where we interview Brent Fitzpatrick, architect and director of local architecture firm on the Central Coast, Fabric Architec
1. Understanding The Builder / Designer Relationship With Saul Myers
Our first episode is a conversation with Saul Myers, a local builder and renovator on the Central Coast. Such an incredible conversation around the builder designer relationship, how we approach our projects as a team and the humour we bring to get us through. In this podcast series, we dive into the details with our industry experts covering topics such as the creative process, latest design tre
