15 Sep Friday Files – SARAH MCPHEE INTERVIEW
In this weeks Friday Files we caught up with Sarah McPhee, an Interior decorator and designer who creates timeless interiors for her clients by cohesively mixing traditional and contemporary elements.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WORK IN THE INDUSTRY?
I have always loved interiors ever since I was a child. My Grandparents homes were filled with antiques and pieces collected over many years. Whenever I visited them growing up, I loved spending time looking at their treasures. My Nanna is possibly my greatest inspiration – from a young age she has exposed me to the beauty of art, culture, fabrics and antiques.
WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR JOB?
Living in today’s society, everyone wants everything now so I find the greatest challenge is educating clients that creating beautiful spaces incorporating quality custom-made and found furnishings takes time. Clients who embrace the process always see that the result is more than worth the wait!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO STUDENTS STARTING OUT IN THE INDUSTRY?
Work really hard and be open to learn. Also actively seek and take hold of opportunities to gain experience, even if it is not exactly what you want to be doing long term.
HOW DO YOU KEEP UP WITH TRENDS IN THE INDUSTRY?
I don’t follow design trends as they come and go so frequently, instead I love timeless interiors that stand the test of time. I particularly love fabrics, so I like to keep up with the latest releases from all the fabric houses on Instagram and by visiting supplier’s showrooms.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE IN 3 WORDS?
Timeless, collected and colourful.
WHAT IS YOUR OWN FABRIC STYLE?
I love a range of fabrics styles whether they be traditional florals or contemporary geometrics, and I love to incorporate a mix in schemes. I love to use mostly natural compositions such as linens and cottons. High quality is also very important to me.
WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE BOYAC SUPPLIER?
Definitely Fermoie! I love that their fabrics are printed in the traditional way on beautiful linen and cotton base cloths. They also have such a beautiful range of colourways.
DO YOU KEEP INTO ACCOUNT SUSTAINABILITY IN A LOT OF YOUR PROJECTS?
Yes, I love to incorporate antique and vintage pieces in some way regardless of whether the project is more traditional or contemporary. I also love to re-use client’s existing pieces where possible. Recovering or restoring beautiful quality existing furniture is so much more sustainable than buying all new.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS?
I was very fortunate to work under the incredibly creative and talented Anna Spiro for 4 years, where I gained a wealth of experience and knowledge in the traditional way of interior decorating and design. Not too long after returning to Melbourne in 2016, I felt the time was right to start my own practice.
For more information on Sarah Mcphee Interiors go to sarahmcpheeinteriors.com.au