Ask RiotACT: Interior designer recommendations

I would recommend Melinda Boag Interior Design without hesitation. Melinda is very experienced and great to deal with. We have used her services for two projects and have been totally happy with the results for both of them. This year she did the design work for a major renovation of our home which included two bathrooms and a large kitchen/family area. The results are stylish and practical and have given our house a huge lift. As well as designing the new rooms, Melinda also helped us choose all the appliances and finishes and drew plans for new furniture to make the most of the new layout. We couldn’t possibly have come up with anything so good by ourselves and are really glad we chose Melinda to do the job.

Depending on the style you’re after, we used Nadine of Journey Home Interior Design (we were after a classic/traditional style for an older building). Lovely person, great to deal with, meticulous attention to detail and a beautiful result for us. She can also curate your existing furniture, art and objects.

Another vote for Catherine Henderson. She also teaches an 8 week “interior design for everyone” course at CIT which might help you develop your own ideas, and understand some of the basic principles. Good luck!

Canberra actually has lots of really talented people who can probably help you, but it can be an expensive business, so make sure you are not bedazzled by the vision of someone you have only just met. Do your homework, cut out things you like from magazines and make up your own ‘story-board’ before you meet with designers – and you will need to talk to more than one.

Kylie Allan. She works at the ‘design and tilehouse’ in Fyshwick or u can find her on facebook.

You could try Catherine Henderson, a friend of mine. Does not have a website but you can see some info here http://www.houzz.com.au/pro/catherinehenderson/catherine-henderson-interior-design

Hope that helps.