What have you been up to since your win at the Interior Awards?

Kristen Basra (KB): I’ve met so many new people in our industry: other designers, suppliers and architects. I had a very busy 2020 full of interior fitouts!

How did you decide to enter the Awards?

KB: I have always questioned whether it would be the right time to enter, but I felt I had a portfolio to express my design/style enough in 2019. I looked more at my projects rather than me as an individual, but felt me as an individual was the key to how my projects were executed and received by the judges.

What was the Awards event like for you?

KB: It was a wonderful experience. The venue was a wow factor of the night, being in a compact crowd allowed you to connect with other industry peers. Overall everyone was there for a good time. The environment felt very warm, and it was easy to chat to anyone.

What advice would you give to young designers who are thinking of entering the Emerging Design Professional category? 

KB: Don’t underestimate yourself. If you’re thinking of entering, make sure you do it, as there is a reason you feel that way. Express yourself as a designer, your ethos and your personal drive to create what you design. 

What did you think of the live finalists presentations?

KB: It’s fantastic to see and hear the processes that laid within the projects. It’s always rewarding to see a finished interior/space, but the process of creating that from concept is also just as rewarding. The story behind the pretty photographs is what’s most compelling, and the presentations are the only way to express those hidden secrets.

How did you spend the $1,500 prize?

KB: I used it to upgrade my design software to benefit my business.

Be part of the next generation of design leaders and enter the 2021 Interior Awards here, and catch up on all the key dates here.