Queensland designer makes mark

Brisbane designer Darren James, of Darren James Interiors, had plenty to celebrate at this year’s KBDi Designer Awards, where the kitchen and bathroom industries celebrated Australia’s best kitchen and bathroom designers.  

For the second year running, James took out the highly esteemed KBDi Australian Certified Designer of the Year award, as well as a place on the KBDi Designers International Tour 2016, which includes entry to the renowned design fair, Salone del Mobile (including EuroCucina), in Milan. James’ win goes to show that designers don’t have to hail from the nation’s trendy southern suburbs to make their mark. 

Queensland’s interior design scene often displays an ambitious and unique character. Photo: Steve Ryan Interior / Darren James Interiors

“Not surprisingly, Queensland designers most often present fresh and liveable designs, representative of the ‘easy going’ personalities and relaxed lifestyles the Sunshine State is famous for,” said KBDi executive director Alex Milne. 

“While the southern states favour grey and dark palettes, Queensland designs are generally warmer, lighter and brighter.”

But Queensland designers won’t be pigeon-holed either, Darren James Interiors Studio Manager Elissa Greer says. 

Darren James Interiors has been recognised for producing designs that are unique to each individual project. Photo: Steve Ryan Interior / Darren James Interiors

“While our style is best described as natural, timeless and enduring, one of the biggest complements we often receive is that of the sheer disbelief that our designs are actually produced by the same studio. 

“We take great pride in the fact that our designs are so different and our latest two projects that earned us the Title of Australian Certified Design of the Year are a true testament to that.”

That’s not to say Queenslanders don’t have a particular style. 

With Queensland lifestyles characterised as simple, relaxed and comfortable with a love for the outdoors, interior design will often emphasise open-plan living. Photo: Steve Ryan Interior / Darren James Interiors

“Most of our clients enjoy what I would describe as a typical Queensland lifestyle – simple, relaxed and comfortable,” said Ms Greer. 

“As Queenslanders we love the outdoors and it’s important to our clients that they celebrate that in their homes. For that reason our clients generally demand open-plan design that is seamlessly connected to the outdoors.”

Ms Greer credits the creative scene in Queensland with being supportive of emerging local designers and creatives. 

Incorporating handcrafted objects helps create an element of authenticity to Queensland interior design. Photo: Steve Ryan

“As a relatively young state that has often lived in the shadows of our southern cousins, we have a very ambitious and unique attitude when it comes to design. 

“Pair this with our global focus on handmade and handcrafted objects and the result is a state that celebrates creativity and authenticity.”

“The design scene in Queensland is really thriving at the moment and so inspiring to be a part of. 

“Things have certainly changed, Queensland has so much confidence now and we no longer worry about what Sydney and Melbourne are doing. 

“Queensland is now home to some of the most talented designers in the world.”