Talk Design

In this special TalkDesign episode, Peter Twohy flips the script, interviewing Adrian Ramsay to dive into his holistic, land-centered approach to architecture. Adrian shares his “land whispering” and “emotional floor plans,” methodologies that prioritize connecting deeply with both clients and the environment. Adrian describes how his design process begins by aligning with the natural elements of...

Celebrated pastry chef and TV personality Adriano Zumbo, known as the "Sweet Assassin," shares insights into his journey from a rural New South Wales supermarket to international stardom. Famous for his inventive desserts and creative food pairings, Adriano reflects on his early passion for sweets, his hands-on apprenticeship, and his time working with top chefs in Paris. Adriano also discusses th...

Anthony Laye's story is as unique as his skills. He's a gifted speaker, host, trainer, and performer who knows how to connect with people. With over 25 years of experience, Anthony has delivered more than 1000 presentations, appeared on TV and radio, and wowed audiences with his understanding of human behaviour. Anthony started his journey as a socially awkward entrepreneur but learnt very quickly...

This ground-up home built just south of downtown Austin was designed for empty nesters looking to accommodate both gatherings for friends and family as well as moments of serene respite. By designing the house in a compact form and setting it against the rear set-back, we were able to congregate all the available site into a central courtyard. A second open-air structure consisting of a 2-car carp...

Sundown, a 6,000 sq ft private residence nestled in West Austin, epitomizes revitalization. Originally crafted in the 1980s by renowned architect Robert Renfro, it breaks away from conventional design rules. Like the post-modernists, the owners embraced individualism and nature in its recreation. Perched on a secluded, sloping lot, Sundown gracefully integrates with its surroundings. It steps down...

A retired couple chose a derelict 1930’s cottage on a rhombus-shaped property in the heart of Austin, to create a modern, landscape-driven house. The quirky storybook structure hovered 4ft above grade and was crowded by two live oaks in the middle of a tight lot. A house and habitat fuse to Austin’s urban forest with a steel and wood carport and rear arbour, cypress screen porch, a cantilevered co...

The Hartford Residence, a 1932 home in Old West Austin, required architectural help to address flow and add living space while maintaining the home's original charm and honouring its historic neighbourhood. The team chose to maintain a single story for the 483 SF addition of a new primary bedroom suite and laundry/mudroom. Brick from the original rear façade was carefully preserved to clad the new...

Tucked behind a 1940's house, this new home peeks out from an alley in historic East Austin. The primary design intent was to make a compact space feel generous with tall ceilings, views to the outdoors, and changeable components. Clerestory windows look into neighbouring pecan trees and provide serene daylighting. The primary axis through the house ends in a window seat overlooking the protected...

The Daniel Residence is a modern re-interpretation of the shotgun typology responding to both the owner’s Louisiana roots and the long narrow nature of her property. Visitors enter past the formal sitting room into a central vestibule which flows in an enfilade procession between kitchen / dining and the sitting. In section, 11’ and 13’ ceilings and extensive glazed openings offset the compact pla...

Perched along a verdant slope overlooking downtown Austin, the City Park Residence is delicately interwoven into the rugged beauty of its surroundings. Rolling hills frame the urban skyline, accentuated by the iconic Pennybacker Bridge. The home is suspended in dynamic tension between this extravagant panorama and the intimacy of a private court as grounded moments of pause and embrace counterbala...

The Bryker Woods Residence is home to the owners of Hunt Architecture. In 2022, after living on their Bryker Woods lot for four years, the couple relocated their existing 1941 bungalow (to another site) and built a new home to complement the 400 SF rear studio they built two years prior. Respecting the scale of the historic neighbourhood while designing a house that was current, efficient, and inn...

From the beginning, the clients adored the Bridle Path property. The expansive lot featured a charming yet notably outdated split-level residence, surrounded by lush tree coverage and a bonus accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at the rear. Instead of demolishing the house outright, the project aimed to maintain the essence of the 1950s split-level while integrating modern elements and creating versatil...

Discover architectural diversity, community engagement, and sustainable innovation at the AIA Austin Homes Tour with Ingrid Spencer. 1. The Austin Homes Tour offers a unique opportunity for the public to explore custom-designed homes and engage with architects, contractors, and designers. It's a chance to see beautifully executed designs and learn about the thought processes behind them. 2. The to...

Jane Ledger is a Perth-based interior designer who is self-proclaimed “obsessed” with helping people create their dream home.   After nearly 20 years in the corporate sector - as a lawyer, project manager and HR executive - Jane decided to pursue her creative passion. This means she brings a unique and very handy skill set to the design and construction process!   Jane specialises in des...

As a young girl, Stefani watched, intrigued by her Dad’s architectural penmanship and drafting skills, as he designed and built their personal family home. From there, she was constantly sketching designs for “the perfect floorplan” and soaking up any design magazines she could get her hands on. After high school graduation she spent her first two years of college studying Architecture at BYU...

Patricia Culley's architectural journey began in childhood, sparked by her love for art, math, and woodworking. A middle school career assessment revealed that architecture perfectly combined her interests. Working with muralist Doug Cooper at Carnegie Mellon deepened her appreciation for architectural drawing and storytelling through art, shaping her design approach. At BCJ, Patricia learned to n...

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 desig...

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 hi...

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 pla...

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 t...

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 fac...

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 m...

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...

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...

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, wh...