In this captivating conversation, Sandro Nocentini ...Italian-born artist, art teacher, and curator currently working with Basement Gallery in Gosford ...opens the door to his world of art making and shares what it truly means to create work that speaks for itself. Known for winning the prestigious Suleman Prize at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sandro brings warmth, wit, and a deeply thoughtful perspective to the creative process. In this episode, Sandro shares the emotional and often frustrating reality behind creating art that genuinely connects with people. He explores the difference between a "pretty picture" and a true artwork ... one that acts like a poem, reflecting the viewer's own story back at them. Karyn and Helen join him in unpacking how art and interior design intersect, the deeply personal nature of collecting, and why choosing art for a home should never be rushed. Sandro also reflects on the Suleman Prize-winning painting that changed his career trajectory, his ongoing experiment with black and white figurative work, and why he believes human creativity will always be beyond the reach of AI. Key Takeaways A true artwork tells a story that can speak to others — it's not just a pretty picture that matches the sofa Color conveys emotion; the wrong choice can mislead the entire story of a painting Art should survive the artist's intention and be open enough to reflect the viewer's own experience Choosing art for your home is as personal as choosing perfume — it should resonate, not just fit When designing a home, let a meaningful artwork be the starting point and build the interior around it Winning the Suleman Prize brought unexpected pressure — and reminded Sandro that joy in the process matters more than replication His black and white figurative series is a deliberate creative evolution — stripping color to let body language carry the emotion AI can mimic but cannot replicate the soul, poetry, and human sentiment in original artwork Creativity is fuelled by curiosity — the willingness to go around the corner and discover something unexpected To find out more about Sandro, you can connect with him here. SANDRO NOCENTINI WEBSITE INSTAGRAM BASEMENT GALLERY GOSFORD CONNECT with McRae + Lynch Design Follow us here on INSTAGRAM Visit our website www.mcraeandlynch.com.au Follow us here on PINTEREST Planning a Build or Renovation and in need of design guidance? If you are getting ready to build or renovate, now is the time to get organised and move forward with confidence. Our online course, Build It Right: Renovation and New Home Guide, shares over 20 years of our design and construction knowledge. Inside the course we show you how to plan with confidence, share industry insights to help you avoid common pitfalls, and most importantly, help you save time and money. Find out more via the link here BUILD IT RIGHT Not sure where to start your build journey? Our free design resources will guide you step by step. Hit the link here to access them. READY TO USE DESIGN RESOURCES We'd love you to subscribe to 'A Designer's Perspective'...you can do that on your favourite podcast platform, and if you really liked this or any other episode please leave us a review and share it with a friend who you think could do with a dose of the Designer's. Thanks so much for tuning in. See you next time for more insights from the world of design and creativity. Karyn + Helen xx

We've had the pleasure of sharing a stage with James on quite a few occasions over the past few years, and somewhere along the way we went from colleagues to genuine friends. We feel it happened pretty naturally ... we just clicked. We share the same sense of humour, and when you find someone who makes you laugh as much as they make you think, you hold onto that. James is one of those people. We're so glad this conversation exists, because it captures exactly what he’s like ... warm, funny, and quietly brilliant. James Treble is a seasoned interior designer with over 25 years of experience shaping spaces. With a background rooted in a deep love for construction and design, James brings authenticity, creativity, and humour to every project. In this episode, James Treble reflects on the journey that took him from a Lego-obsessed kid to one of Australia's respected designers. He shares how genuine passion drives his client relationships, why he believes in mentoring young creatives, and how humour has become one of his most powerful professional tools.   Key Takeaways Passion is non-negotiable. You can't fake enthusiasm — clients feel it, and it drives better creative outcomes. Mentorship plants seeds. A single encouraging word to a young person can redirect them toward a fulfilling creative path. Humour is a professional tool. Levity diffuses tension, builds trust, and makes collaboration with clients and builders smoother. Diverse experience enriches design. James's wide-ranging background across real estate and landscape design informs a richer, more holistic approach. Design is fundamentally human. Creating great spaces is as much about relationships and communication as it is about aesthetics. To find out more about James, you can connect with him here. JAMES' WEBSITE INSTAGRAM   CONNECT with McRae + Lynch Design Follow us here on INSTAGRAM Visit our website www.mcraeandlynch.com.au Follow us here on PINTEREST Planning a Build or Renovation and in need of design guidance? If you are getting ready to build or renovate, now is the time to get organised and move forward with confidence. Our online course, Build It Right: Renovation and New Home Guide, shares over 20 years of our design and construction knowledge. Inside the course we show you how to plan with confidence, share industry insights to help you avoid common pitfalls, and most importantly, help you save time and money. Find out more via the link here BUILD IT RIGHT Not sure where to start your build journey? Our free design resources will guide you step by step. Hit the link here to access them. READY TO USE DESIGN RESOURCES We'd love you to subscribe to 'A Designer's Perspective'...you can do that on your favourite podcast platform, and if you really liked this or any other episode please leave us a review and share it with a friend who you think could do with a dose of the Designer's.  Thanks so much for tuning in. See you next time for more insights from the world of design. Karyn + Helen xx

In this engaging conversation, Stef Hanson, a Melbourne-based Creative Director, photographer, and videographer, known for her authentic storytelling and dynamic visual campaigns, shares her journey into the world of visual storytelling. With a strong background in sports and sports media, she hosted the hugely successful multimedia platform for women in sport for 15 years, which saw her traveling the globe interviewing professional athletes, covering events and creating content. In 2021 she transitioned and founded Stef Hanson Productions. Her approach blends creative problem-solving with technical expertise, delivering campaigns that resonate with audiences and stand out in a crowded market.  Stef's portfolio spans various industries, including lifestyle, fashion, and sports, showcasing her versatility and commitment to capturing genuine moments. Stef emphasizes the importance of authenticity and connection in her work. She discusses the misconceptions surrounding her role as a creative director and reflects on the impact of her projects, particularly one that successfully bridged the gap between marketing data and storytelling. The conversation concludes with Stef's aspirations for the future and her commitment to staying true to herself in her creative endeavours. Key Takeaways Stef's energy and authenticity are key to her success. She believes in the power of visual storytelling. Creativity can come from unexpected places. Transitioning into photography was a necessity for her. Authenticity is crucial in connecting with clients. Misconceptions about creative roles can limit understanding. Each project offers a chance for personal growth. Data can validate creative ideas and their impact. Building trust with clients is essential for collaboration. Staying true to oneself leads to better outcomes. To find out more about Stef, you can connect with her here. STEF HANSON'S WEBSITE INSTAGRAM   CONNECT with McRae + Lynch Design Follow us here on INSTAGRAM Visit our website www.mcraeandlynch.com.au Follow us here on PINTEREST Planning a Build or Renovation and in need of design guidance? If you are getting ready to build or renovate, now is the time to get organised and move forward with confidence. Our online course, Build It Right: Renovation and New Home Guide, shares over 20 years of our design and construction knowledge. Inside the course we show you how to plan with confidence, share industry insights to help you avoid common pitfalls, and most importantly, help you save time and money. Find out more via the link here BUILD IT RIGHT Not sure where to start your build journey? Our free design resources will guide you step by step. Hit the link here to access them. READY TO USE DESIGN RESOURCES We'd love you to subscribe to 'A Designer's Perspective'...you can do that on your favourite podcast platform, and if you really liked this or any other episode please leave us a review and share it with a friend who you think could do with a dose of the Designer's.  Thanks so much for tuning in. See you next time for more insights from the world of design. Karyn + Helen xx

In this engaging conversation, Linda Habak, an accomplished interior designer, co-founder of Rosebriar Developments and now podcaster herself, shares her journey from marketing to design. She discusses her early passion for design, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of navigating the design process. Linda reflects on her personal projects that shaped her approach to design and emphasizes the significance of trust and communication with clients. The discussion also touches on the evolving role of AI in design and the need for a human connection in the creative process. Key Takeaways • Returning to design was a necessary creative outlet for Linda. • Mentorship played a crucial role in her journey. • Understanding the design process is essential for success. • Personal projects taught her valuable lessons about design. • Property development combines her marketing and design skills. • Trust and communication are vital in client relationships. • The design process involves much more than just creativity. • AI can enhance efficiency but cannot replace human connection. • Every designer should be open to learning and adapting. To find out more about Linda, you can connect with her here. STUDIO LHD WEBSITE INSTAGRAM BUILD BEAUTIFUL Podcast   CONNECT with McRae + Lynch Design Follow us here on INSTAGRAM Visit our website www.mcraeandlynch.com.au Follow us here on PINTEREST Planning a Build or Renovation and in need of design guidance? If you are getting ready to build or renovate, now is the time to get organised and move forward with confidence. Our online course, Build It Right: Renovation and New Home Guide, shares over 20 years of our design and construction knowledge. Inside the course we show you how to plan with confidence, share industry insights to help you avoid common pitfalls, and most importantly, help you save time and money. Find out more via the link here BUILD IT RIGHT Not sure where to start your build journey? Our free design resources will guide you step by step. Hit the link here to access them. READY TO USE DESIGN RESOURCES We'd love you to subscribe to 'A Designer's Perspective'...you can do that on your favourite podcast platform, and if you really liked this or any other episode please leave us a review and share it with a friend who you think could do with a dose of the Designer's.  Thanks so much for tuning in. See you next time for more insights from the world of design. Karyn + Helen xx

In this episode, we chat with Caron about her inspiring move from the finance world into the design industry and her role at KE-ZU Furniture. It is a great reminder that career pivots can lead exactly where you are meant to be. We talk about what really matters when selecting furniture, from quality and warranties through to the often overlooked details like foam types and how they affect comfort and longevity. If you have ever wondered why some sofas feel amazing for years and others do not, this conversation explains why. Caron also shares her passion for building genuine community within the design industry. We dive into the importance of collaboration, lifting each other up, and creating supportive networks, especially for women working in design. It is an honest and empowering discussion about respect, recognition, and backing yourself in this industry. Key Takeaways • Caron’s journey into design started with a love of small business and evolved into a career in the furniture industry • Ke Zu focuses on thoughtfully curated furniture that improves the way we live and work • Quality and warranty should always be front of mind when investing in furniture • Foam types play a big role in comfort, performance, and how long a piece will last • Great design for comfort starts with understanding the people who will actually use the space • Community and connection are essential in the design industry • Women in design can face unnecessary competition, which makes collaboration even more important • The design profession deserves greater recognition and respect • Caron’s work building a supportive designer network is making a real impact To find out more about KE-ZU you can connect with them here at their website, Instagram and LinkedIn profile. KE-ZU WEBSITE KE-ZU Instagram LINKEDIN PROFILE CONNECT WITH US Follow us here on Instagram Visit our website www.mcraeandlynch.com.au Follow us here on  Pinterest Planning a Build or Renovation? If you are getting ready to build or renovate, now is the time to get organised and move forward with confidence. Our online course, Build It Right: Renovation and New Home Guide, shares over 20 years of our design and construction knowledge. Inside the course we show you how to plan with confidence, share industry insights to help you avoid common pitfalls, and most importantly, help you save time and money. Find out more via the link here Build it Right. Not sure where to start your build journey? Our free design resources will guide you step by step. Hit the link here to access them. Do not miss upcoming episodes...Subscribe to A Designer’s Perspective here  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform and share it with a friend who would love it too. Thanks so much for tuning in. See you next time for more insights from the world of design. Karyn + Helen xx

Kate Nixon: The organic journey of an award-winning Interior Designer. In this conversation, Kate Nixon shares her organic journey in the design industry, influenced by her upbringing in a family of furniture makers. She discusses her transition from food styling to interior design, the importance of understanding the business side of design, and the misconceptions clients often have about the role of an interior designer. Kate reflects on a significant project that shaped her approach to design and the lessons learned about collaboration and managing client expectations. Key Takeaways: • Kate's journey in design was influenced by her upbringing in a family of furniture makers. • She transitioned from food styling to interior design through organic opportunities. • Understanding the business side of design is crucial for success. • Clients often have misconceptions about the role and value of interior designers. • Timing and collaboration are key to successful design projects. • Budgeting and cost management are essential in the design process. • Quality and expectations management are important in client relationships. • Time tracking has helped Kate's team understand project demands better. • Every project is a learning opportunity for designers. • Passion and dedication are vital in the design industry. Connect with Us: Follow us here on INSTAGRAM Visit our website www.mcraeandlynch.com.au Follow us here on PINTEREST Planning to build or renovate… then it’s time to get organised and plan your build with confidence! Our ONLINE COURSE, (link)  'Build it Right - Renovation & New Home Guide' Shares our 20 + years of design & construction knowledge. • We show you how to plan with confidence • We share industry insights on how to avoid common pitfalls • And most importantly…how to save money & time !! To find out more hit the link. Not sure where to start your build journey? Our free design resources will guide you every step of the way hit the LINK HERE Don’t miss out on upcoming episodes, Subscribe to ‘A Designer’s Perspective’. And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform & SHARE this episode with a friend. And finally…Thank you for tuning in. We’ll see you next time with more insights from the world of design and construction. Karyn + Helen xx

Neale Whitaker shares his journey from magazine editor to television presenter, discussing the evolution of design inspiration and the importance of aesthetics. He emphasizes the role of curiosity in maintaining passion for design and the significance of understanding client needs. Neale also addresses our question on misconceptions in the design industry, the impact of television on his career, and the organic nature of career paths. The conversation touches on personal growth, confidence, and the changing perception of age in creativity, concluding with a commitment to embracing opportunities and continuing to learn. Key Takeaways: • Neale emphasizes the importance of curiosity in maintaining passion for design. • He highlights the influence of Australian magazines on global design trends. • Neale believes that understanding client needs is crucial for successful design. • He discusses the misconceptions surrounding his role in the design industry. • He acknowledges the importance of experience in the creative field. • He believes in learning from every experience, good or bad. • Neale reflects on the organic nature of his career path and the opportunities that have come his way. • He emphasizes that age should not define one's creativity or career trajectory.   Connect with Us: Follow us here on INSTAGRAM Visit our website www.mcraeandlynch.com.au Follow us here on PINTEREST Planning to build a new home or renovate? Then it’s time to get organised and plan your build with confidence! Our ONLINE COURSE, Build it Right - Renovation & New Home Guide Shares our 20 + years of design & construction knowledge. • We show you how to plan with confidence • We share industry insights on how to avoid common pitfalls • And most importantly…how to save money & time !! To find out more hit the link above. Not sure where to start your build journey? Our free design resources will guide you every step of the way hit the LINK HERE Don’t miss out on upcoming episodes, Subscribe to ‘A Designer’s Perspective’. And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform & SHARE this episode with a friend. And finally…Thank you for tuning in. We’ll see you next time with more insights from the world of design and construction. Karyn + Helen XX

This is a short wrap to close out 2025 and mark a reset for the podcast. It’s been a big year behind the scenes, and while we pressed pause on releasing episodes mid year, the conversations never really stopped. In this episode, we reflect briefly on where we’ve been, why we stepped back, and what’s coming next. From late January 2026, the podcast returns with a refreshed direction, featuring in depth conversations with some of the best voices in Australian design and the arts. We’ll be sitting down with people shaping the industry in meaningful ways, exploring their thinking, their work and the paths that got them there. This new season sees us asking every guest the same three questions. The answers have been thoughtful, surprising and often wildly different, and they continue to spark some of the most interesting moments in each conversation. Thank you for listening, for sticking with us, and for being part of the journey. We’ll see you on the other side of the reset.

In this episode of 'Two Gin's In, a Designer's Perspective', Karyn and Helen discuss the essential steps homeowners need to take before starting a renovation or new build. They cover topics such as defining renovation goals, budgeting, assessing project scope, understanding local council regulations, creating a project brief, getting early estimates from builders, setting priorities, and assembling a design team. The conversation emphasises the importance of preparation and planning to ensure a successful renovation experience. You’ll learn: Defining your renovation goals is crucial for success. Budgeting should include a contingency for unexpected costs. Assess the full scope of your project to avoid surprises. Understanding local council regulations can save time and money. A clear project brief acts as a roadmap for your renovation. Getting early estimates helps in aligning your budget with your plans. Prioritise elements that will add the most value to your home. Assemble a reliable design team to streamline the process. Be prepared for decision fatigue during the renovation process. Research and preparation are key to a successful renovation.   Free Download  8 Points to consider for a successful Renovation Connect with Us: Follow us here on  INSTAGRAM Visit our website  www.mcraeandlynch.com.au Follow us here on PINTEREST  Are you contemplating renovating or building a new home? Our ONLINE COURSE, Build it Right - Renovation & New Home Guide shares 20 + years of design and construction experience. Avoid common pitfalls Plan with confidence Save money and time Enjoy a smooth building journey…to find out more hit the link!! Build it Right - Renovation & New Home Guide     Don’t miss out on upcoming episodes!! Subscribe to ‘Two Gins In’ now !! Write us a review !! Enjoyed this episode? Leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Know someone renovating their home? Then SHARE this episode with them! Thank you for tuning in!  We’ll see you next time with more insights from the world of design and construction.   Garden Street Gin Club Whether you're a gin connoisseur, or just getting started on your gin journey, Garden Street Gin Club is the perfect way to explore new flavours and treat yourself at the end of the day. https://www.gardenstreet.com.au/#collection-subscription  We have created a unique discount code for our ‘Two Gins In’ Podcast listeners and guests CODE:  twoginsin Any listener that uses our discount code at the checkout when signing up to Garden Street Gin Club will also receive a bonus 200ml bottle of Australian craft gin valued at $35+!New members that sign up to Garden Street Gin Club will receive, the current months gin box  

In this podcast episode, Helen & Karyn chat with Mark Bennett, the marketing director of Momo Handles for the Furnware Group, discussing the evolution of the brand, its design philosophy, and the importance of door hardware in home aesthetics and functionality. They explore current trends in materials and finishes, Momo's commitment to sustainability, and the significance of functionality in hardware selection. The conversation also highlights the interactive showroom experience, and the educational initiatives Momo offers to designers and the home renovator / builder. You’ll learn: Momo Handles started with a focus on cabinet hardware and evolved into architectural door hardware. The design philosophy behind consistency across home finishes. Handles and cabinetry hardware significantly influence the overall aesthetic of a space. Sustainability is a growing focus, with efforts to ensure long-lasting products. Momo encourages customers to engage with products in their showroom for the full tactile experience over making selections through images alone. Current trends include a shift towards earthy tones and polished nickel finishes. Functionality should be the primary consideration when selecting hardware. The tactile experience of handles is crucial for customer satisfaction. Momo's showroom offers an interactive experience for designers and consumers alike. Education on product selection is essential for both designers and homeowners. Guest Contact:   Visit Momo website  https://www.momohandles.com.au/  Follow Momo here on  INSTAGRAM   Connect with Us: Follow us here on  INSTAGRAM Visit our website  www.mcraeandlynch.com.au Follow us here on PINTEREST   Are you contemplating renovating or building a new home? Our ONLINE COURSE, Build it Right - Renovation & New Home Guide shares 20 + years of design and construction experience. Avoid common pitfalls Plan with confidence Save money and time Enjoy a smooth building journey…to find out more hit the link!! Build it Right - Renovation & New Home Guide   MOOD BOARD MASTERCLASSES Are you in need of hands-on guidance when it comes to honing your home style? Then our mood boarding workshops are a must!! Hit the link below to find out where and when our next class is being held Style Foundations Workshop, Style Foundations, Mood Board Workshop   Don’t miss out on upcoming episodes!! Subscribe to ‘Two Gins In’ now !! Write us a review !! Enjoyed this episode? Leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Know someone renovating their home? Then SHARE this episode with them!   Thank you for tuning in!  We’ll see you next time with more insights from the world of design and construction. Garden Street Gin Club Whether you're a gin connoisseur, or just getting started on your gin journey, Garden Street Gin Club is the perfect way to explore new flavours and treat yourself at the end of the day. https://www.gardenstreet.com.au/#collection-subscription We have created a unique discount code for our ‘Two Gins In’ Podcast listeners and guests CODE:  twoginsin Any listener that uses our discount code at the checkout when signing up to Garden Street Gin Club will also receive a bonus 200ml bottle of Australian craft gin valued at $35+! New members that sign up to Garden Street Gin Club will receive,The current months gin box