You are in the business of designing beautiful spaces. What does your design process look like?
Every design solution is underpinned by our Project Delivery Methodology, which consists of several phases, with continual client collaboration and review throughout the process. We start with a Pre-Design Strategy which includes a casual and relaxed workshop aimed to understand the clients’ objectives, aspirations, and requirements for the project. Understanding how the intangible integrates with tangible is formative in creating the soul of each project. Moving into Sketch Design we then share our concepts in a variety of mediums, such as 3D Renders, Sketches and in-house Virtual Reality to explore the space.
The design continues to come to life through testing and challenging the concept with the client’s input and feedback. Once the design is approved, we prepare the technical Construction Documentation so the project can be accurately priced and built. We work closely with our builders to ensure that even the smallest of details are bought to life.
Pictured: George and Willy Magnetic Menu Board
Where and who do you draw your inspiration?
We draw inspiration from all kinds of weird and wonderful places! Each project is unique. We are inspired from places we have travelled and bespoke detailing from around the world. Often rather unconventional and intangible elements such a feeling or holiday memory, can manifest in the most creative way. Books and print resources, alongside innovative materials from local supplier’s form such an important part of our studio culture and can spark an entire concept. The main source of inspiration is typically our clients, an important part of our design process is learning how they operate and what they are passionate about which always compels us to craft something completely individual for them.
What has been one of your favourite design projects to date, and why?
We have loved working on the Lune Croissanterie projects (Armadale, Brisbane, Fitzroy, Martin Place Sydney and Darlinghurst Sydney) where there is a large amount of collaboration with the Lune team to create spaces that showcase the art of their croissant making. We find it incredibly rewarding to build a long-term relationship with a client who trusts us with each new site. It’s a great balance of translating their functional requirements across each site, whilst also incorporating unique materials and detailing to each site that responds to its own context and architecture.
In your opinion, what are the non-negotiables to focus on when it comes to designing a hospitality or retail space?
Functionality is key. We always start with space planning to ensure we can fit all the functional requirements, such as kitchen equipment, specific display zones, etc. and make sure the flow between each element is optimised to allow our clients to work in the best way possible within their space. A space can look beautiful but can be a complete failure if it doesn’t functionally perform the way it should. Another non-negotiable is selecting durable materials that are fit for purpose. We want to have confidence that the materials we specify will stand the test of time and won’t need to be replaced.
When it came to the signage in your space, what was important to you?
We value showcasing local designers and craftsman in our projects that are in line with our own design values. We value beautifully designed signage and the George & Willy menu boards were the perfect minimal design to tie in with the aesthetic of our Lune stores. We had confidence knowing it was a well-designed product that would work for Lune from Day 01 and stand the test of time.
Do you have a favorite George and Willy product?
The Magnetic Menu board!
Pictured: George and Willy Pricing Signs and Magnetic Menu Board
What is the best piece of business advice you’ve been given, and why?
Always make the time to listen – it’s all about hearing what the person is saying to be able to design something exceptional for them. ~ Tess Carpenter
Always include an element of surprise. Being able to surprise a client with an unconventional spatial solution or unique material they didn’t know they loved is always fulfilling and further strengthens the relationship between client and designer. ~ Ana Calic
What website do you go to to be inspired?
The Local Project, Yatzer, Dezeen, Yellowtrace, The Design Files, Cool Hunting, Pinterest - the list goes on!
Written by Tess Carpenter, Senior Interior Designer and Ana Calic, Director.
