INTERIOR DESIGNER, KATE LAWRENCE ON CHOOSING FURNITURE TO LAST A LIFETIME

We chat with Interior Designer, Kate Lawrence about the journey of turning her passion into a career and her tips on which furniture pieces you should consider investing in when decorating your home. 

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START KATE LAWRENCE INTERIORS?

I was working for a media agency for a few years post university and during this time my partner Luke and I started our first renovation together. It is safe to say from this point onwards we became hooked and had no real desire to sit still or stop. I decided very quickly that I wanted to further my skills and get a qualification so I could turn this passion into a job. I left my full-time job, began working part time and studying Interior Design for the next few years. By the time I graduated I had already completed 3 renovations and I had helped friends renovate their own homes. Kate Lawrence Interiors was born during that time simply so I could share these passion projects with others online and then once I was qualified I decided I was ready to take on clients of my own. 

WHICH STATEMENT FURNITURE PIECES DO YOU THINK ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TO INVEST IN?

I always like to tell my clients to invest in the bigger items such as a dining table or sofa.  By selecting a larger ticket item like this that is high quality and timeless you will save later by owning the piece for years to come. 

The dining table I purchased for my own home was a statement piece but something I had my eyes on for years, so I was happy to invest. Often, I see people waste money buying fast furniture pieces which are trend based and not necessarily timeless or of quality craftsmanship. 

WHAT SHOULD PEOPLE CONSIDER WHEN IT COMES TO THE MATERIALS AND CRAFTSMANSHIP OF THESE PIECES? 

In recent years I have become more aware of what I am purchasing. Whether that be clothing, furniture, or the materials I have selected for my builds. I want to be conscious of what impact my decision or selections will have on the environment. I encourage others to do the same and look into where the materials are from and how things are made. At least this way you’re making an informed decision on what you’re spending your money on.

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE CHOOSING SUSTAINABLY MADE FURNITURE IS IMPORTANT?

I think we are all becoming increasingly aware of the impact our decisions are having on the environment and furniture plays a part in this. If you make the conscious decision to select pieces which are sustainable you too are aiding this movement towards a greener world. 

WHICH TOTEM ROAD PIECE IS YOUR FAVOURITE AND HOW WOULD YOU STYLE IT?

The York Bed! I have had my eyes on this bed for a while and I am just waiting for the right client to put this in their home. That client may in-fact just end up being myself! Styled with natural coloured linen sheets and a white linen doona - I really think it’s all about that effortless look with this piece! 

WHAT EXCITING PROJECTS DO YOU HAVE COMING UP?

I am about to start another duplex development this year which I am super excited about! Every material which is going into this build I want to be carefully considered. It is an exciting challenge to make the house as sustainable as possible and I think it will be far more rewarding knowing if we continue in the building game that we can build houses which have a positive footprint and are equipped for their future owners.

Discover more about Kate Lawrence Interiors online here and follow her on Instagram @katelawrenceinteriors for more design inspiration.