Talk Design

Nick Deaver's journey into architecture began in West Texas, inspired by his father's work as an electrical contractor and his mother’s love for sewing. These early influences shaped Nick's vision, blending construction with creativity. His formal education at Texas Tech provided a strong technical foundation, but it was in practice that Nick developed his deep appreciation for human-centred design.When Jess Deaver joined their firm, she broadened their scope, shifting the focus from individual homes to larger community impact. Together, they emphasize thoughtful design that resonates emotionally with people and respects the environment. Their philosophy centres around inclusivity, collaboration, and creating spaces that foster a sense of belonging, wellness, and connection to the land.

Andrew has worked in the design industry for over 25 years and established his award-winning business MR. MITCHELL in November of 2000. With a particular focus on building meaningful relationships within the industry, he has established a strong network of professionals with whom he collaborates on a regular basis. Andrew Mitchell shares his extensive experience in the design industry and his transition to coaching. With a focus on helping designers navigate business challenges, Andrew highlights the importance of managing client expectations regarding budget, design, and timeframe. He emphasizes the need for client-centric decision-making and understanding the value equation over mere cost. Andrew also delves into the significance of collaboration, continuous learning, financial management, and having a positive mindset. He stresses transparency and flexibility in pricing to build trust with clients and maintain the perceived value of design services.As an avid proponent of Australian design, Andrew loves collaborating with local artisans and craftsmen to produce interiors uniquely curated to suit the personalities of his clients. Skilled in the art of listening and blessed with an innate ability to connect the dots behind a brief, he leads his team to successfully exceed client expectations, time after time.With projects spanning the residential, hospitality and commercial fields, his designs are customised to suit the individual aspirations and requirements of his clients. With a belief in the use of quality materials that are not only beautiful but durable and timeless, the interiors he creates far outlast transient interior trends.As the founder of The Design Coach Australia, Andrew contributes to the ongoing professional development of architects, designers and stylists and is creating a platform for connecting and advancing the design community. Established in 2018, The Design Coach offers a range of classes, coaching services and retreats that aim to empower designers with knowledge and equip them with the confidence to successfully achieve their dreams.From the early days of his business, Andrew has strived to contribute to both the design community and the community at large. Over the years he has participated in mentoring programs for design students and has instigated community events, raising money for multiple charitable organisations including Breast Cancer Australia, The Lighthouse Foundation and The National Trust of Australia.

Discover the journey and philosophy of one of Australia’s leading architects, Peter Stutchbury. Influenced by his father, an engineer and his uncle, a builder, Peter's unique architectural approach blends formal education with extensive outdoor experiences. Initially studying commerce, Peter stumbled upon his true passion for architecture, guided by nature's lessons.Peter's designs prioritize place, culture, and nature, creating meaningful structures. His current projects—a cultural building for the Maru people in the Gibson desert and a remote room in Jay’s Park—exemplify his commitment to community, cultural respect, and environmental engagement.Listen to Peter discuss the timeless, ethereal installation proposal and explore his advocacy for sustainable, adaptable architecture that values the landscape and fosters deep connections.

Elise Elliott’s media career spans more than twenty-five years across television, radio, print and podcasting. Elise’s experience has given her the journalistic edge to write, host and present across all media formats. Elise is a rev-head. Her daily drive is an old classic ’68 convertible Mustang V8. Fitting then she is one of Australia’s few women motoring journalists. Elise is co-host of the TV motoring show, Cool Cars, on 7MATE with Season 2 currently in production. Elise also test drives and films online motoring content for car brands including Aston Martin and McLaren.Elise was a presenter on Network Ten’s motoring show WhichCar and was the motoring editor and contributor to ARE Media publications with monthly car columns in both Belle and House & Garden magazines. Elise co-hosts the popular Nine Radio podcast The Elliott Exchange—currently up to episode 86—with her husband, 3AW Mornings radio host Tom Elliott. She can be heard on the radio as a regular fill-in host on 3AW’s Afternoons and contributor to 3AW’s The Weekend Break. Elise is a sought-after MC, hosting several automotive events including the Grand Prix charity event with Sir Jackie Stewart, the Ford Mach-E launch with Daniel Ricciardo, and events for Porsche, Singer, and Bentley. Yes, here’s a woman who can talk the “torque”!When not holding a mic you’ll find Elise behind the wheel of her beloved ’68 convertible Mustang… or out on the waves indulging in her latest passion, surfing.

Laurie Laizure founded the Interior Design Community (IDC) over 12 years ago, starting on Google Plus and expanding to platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn. With over 110,000 Instagram followers, IDC is a vibrant space where designers share knowledge, foster friendships, and improve their business practices.Evolution and Impact of Social Media: Laurie emphasizes how IDC facilitates deeper conversations among designers, addressing business challenges and enhancing collaboration. The community has become a crucial resource for professional growth and client service quality.Future Goals and Nonprofit Structure: Operating as a nonprofit, IDC aims to be governed by its members. Laurie envisions a future board of interior designers advocating for the profession, negotiating with brands, and providing essential resources, creating a sustainable, member-driven community.Increased Demand for Quality and Local Design: Consumers' frustration with fast furniture is driving a demand for higher-quality, durable pieces and local sourcing, partly due to COVID-19 supply chain issues. This trend offers significant business opportunities for designers to monetize their expertise through shoppable showrooms and online consultations.

Join Mick Hawes, the dynamic host of "The Tool Shed" podcast and founder of Builders Business Black Belt, as he delves into the intricacies of business coaching for builders. Mick’s journey from electrician to business coach is marked by diverse experiences, including roles as a musician, photocopier technician, and life insurance salesperson. These roles led him to personal development and time management, ultimately steering him toward business coaching.Mick's coaching philosophy emphasizes the distinction between technical skills and successful business management. He helps builders enhance communication, relationship-building, and business acumen using the six working geniuses' model by Patrick Lencioni. This model highlights the importance of leveraging all six types of genius: wonder, invention, discernment, galvanizing, enablement, and tenacity, to ensure project success.Mick shares insights on identifying weak links in business operations, utilizing tools like the "Black Belt Compass" for direction, and the value of community and support. Tune in to learn how to refine your instincts, make informed decisions, and continuously improve your business through education and self-improvement.

Andrew always knew he wanted to be an architect. He was drawing floor plans as far back as the first grade. The obsession never subsided, so he continued his journey at Kansas State University, completing his Master of Architecture degree in 2010. He arrived in Dallas just as the architecture industry was emerging from the lean years of the Great Recession. Time spent at a large international retail design firm as well as a local boutique firm has formed the foundation of Andrew’s professional experience. Andrew launched Agent Architecture in May of 2017.Since then, the practice has grown, with his wife and co-owner joining in 2019, and the addition of 2 team members in the following years. Now a small studio of 4, Agent has maintained a diverse range of project types, with an emphasis on adaptive re-use, workplace, and early childhood education. A seamlessly integrated architecture and interiors practice, Agent delivers whole-building design solutions for nearly any project type. Beyond Architecture, Andrew is a father to a nearly 2-year-old, life-long science-fiction fan, and self-proclaimed sandwich connoisseur. 

Marie Kargiotis an interior stylist and home renovator, whose refined style and unwavering passion have made waves in the lifestyle landscape. Marie is authentic and passionate, and her enthusiasm for visualizing the potential of a project is infectious. Recognised as one of Adelaide’s top 10 interior stylists by The Advertiser, she has had the privilege of collaborating with numerous high-profile clients. Marie possesses the unique gift of seamlessly intertwining style with authenticity and beauty with purpose. Marie transitioned from a successful hairstyling career to interior design. Her meticulous attention to aesthetics began in childhood. Her hairstyling career, marked by high-profile work and education in Vidal Sassoon techniques, cultivated her appreciation for design, eventually sparking her interest in interiors.Marie's interior design business developed naturally through compliments and requests from friends. Initially offering services informally, her business grew as her reputation spread. She learned to value her skills, gradually increasing her rates as she gained confidence, despite lacking formal interior design training.Marie emphasizes creating personalized, emotionally resonant interiors. She excels in understanding and fulfilling clients' desires through incorporating meaningful items into home decor, making a home unique and reflective of the individual's experiences. She advocates for fun, expressive design choices that reflect individual personalities, ensuring each project represents the client's style. The conversation emphasizes mixing styles, such as modern elements with vintage pieces, showcasing creativity and respecting the original architecture, resulting in a balanced, pleasing space.Tune in for a great conversation!

Phil Darwen, the mastermind behind the Instagram sensation "A Designer's Mind" with 1.4 million followers, delves into his unique journey as a building designer. Specializing in home design and renovation, Phil brings an exceptional flair for interior styling that has made him a significant figure in the design world.Phil's career blossomed under the mentorship of renowned designer Paul Clout, where he transitioned from hand-drawn sketches to AutoCAD, showcasing his adaptability and commitment. His design philosophy centres on the critical importance of light, ventilation, and storage, addressing modern challenges of smaller plot sizes. Ensuring proper breathability, light penetration, and ample storage in homes enhances comfort and well-being.Highlighting environmental influences, Phil discusses designing homes that breathe naturally, minimizing the need for air conditioning, especially in subtropical climates. Emphasizing human-centered architecture, he stresses the emotional impact of engaging with spaces at ground level, advocating for designs that elevate societal vibrancy.Phil's Instagram journey, from a personal profile to a design-focused platform, reflects his dedication to sharing innovative ideas and fostering a community seeking inspiration. By integrating unexpected and historically rich images, Phil reminds us to view design from different perspectives, enriching the engagement and thoughtfulness of his content. His personal legacy project encapsulates his professional growth, underscoring functionality, materiality, and emotional connection in architecture.