In this new column, I will be showcasing some of Brisbane’s creative minds, who work hard to create the things we all love – beautiful spaces.
Brisbane Interior Designer: Q&A with Claire Stevens
Tell us a bit about your background and how that led to a career in Interior Design?
Subconsciously, I think I always was interested in design from an early age. How things worked and were put together and I was always obsessed with looking at floor plans in the weekend news papers and wondering which house I liked best. Eventually, that led me down the path of design. Originally, I thought architecture, however, I became much more interested in the smaller scale and details of houses in particular – so I did Interior Design instead.
You offer a huge range of skills as a designer, is there one part of working with a client that is your favourite?
Working with clients is really quite an intimate process. From conception and understanding the changes they make, how they want to be able to use the spaces and then creating that into something special is always a lovely experience.
It is a very rewarding job being able to see something from a concept turn into a reality and then hearing the feedback as to how much they love the spaces.
Is there a word or a phrase that would encapsulate your style or your design ethos?
I would say that I am not a ‘one style wonder’! I am often asked what my style is and it is a very hard one to pin point. Clients generally want a room and house that reflect themselves, their personalities and interests (not mine) so most of the time I am responding to them and working with them to create something that is suited and tailored to them.
Generally I like to try and keep everything simple, classic and tailored so that we are not responding to one trend or another and it will be a space that stands the test of time.
New Farm Apartment by Claire Stevens Interior Design – Photo by Toby Scott
New Farm Apartment by Claire Stevens Interior Design – Photo by Toby Scott
What has been your most rewarding job so far?
In the last three years of C.S.I.D (Claire Stevens Interior Design) I have really had the opportunity to work on some amazing projects for which I am truly blessed. I don’t think that one stands out so far as being more rewarding than another.
What skills or qualifications are imperative in your industry?
Attention to detail is a very important one as often it is the small things that make the largest difference. You also need to have good communication and people skills as you are dealing with clients, contractors and suppliers on a daily basis. In terms of qualifications and skills it is important to be able to understand how things are put together – technical skills in cabinetry and basic carpentry can go a long way!
Claire Stevens Interior Design. Photo by Mindi Cooke
Is there a place or space in Brisbane that you absolutely adore?
One of my favorite places – and has been for a few years now is the fit out that Richards & Spence did for Survey Co. in the City a few years ago. The space is very well thought out with clever and simple details throughout. It has a very warm and inviting vibe to it which is such a stark contrast from the laneway on which it is situated – which I think gives it a very special feeling.
To see more of Claire’s amazing work and portfolio, take a look at her website. It’s very inspiring!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us, Claire!
