Ever walked into a home that just feels right? It’s not just about colour or finishes—it’s about the moments built into the design. In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Papas, Head of Interior Design at BuildHer Collective, to talk about the importance of shaping a home’s form before even thinking about colour.
Bec shares her own experience designing her family home, breaking down how to create thoughtful spaces that elevate everyday living. We cover:
Designing for experience – How intentional sightlines (like placing a window to frame a tree) can completely transform a space.
Creating practical, high-impact features – Why a built-in drying rack in the laundry could be a smarter investment than fancy tiles.
Layering function and form – The art of balancing statement design choices, like sunken lounges and built-in seating, to create warmth and flow.
Bringing the outside in – How flooring materials, window placement, and even landscaping choices can seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces.
Keeping flexibility in finishes – Why it’s essential to start with a strong structure, so you can adapt materials later without compromising the vision.
Whether you’re renovating, building, or planning your dream home, this episode is packed with insights that will change the way you think about design. Tune in and learn why moments matter more than colour swatches!
Key Takeaways
- The renovation journey begins with lots of planning and design checks.
- Narrowing down design choices can be challenging, even for professionals.
- Functionality in spaces, like the laundry, is often overlooked.
- Design should consider both personal living and guest experiences.
- Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the atmosphere.
- Collaboration in design can lead to more creative outcomes.
- Injecting colour into home design can enhance personality, once form has been completed.
- Creating cohesive indoor-outdoor spaces is essential.
- Starting with form before colour helps in visualising the space and how it will be used.
Connect with us:
- BuildHer Instagram: @buildhercollective
- Register for a call: https://go.oncehub.com/BuildHer
- BuildHer Website: https://buildhercollective.com.au/
- Members Only Facebook Group
This group is for members only – BuildHers and DevelopHers. This is a closed group for women who are doing our Build Like a BuildHer program or who have joined our DevelopHers Masterclass. - FREE Facebook Group
Anyone is more than welcome to join our Women who Design, Decorate, Renovate & Build group. You will note that it’s a closed group, so just request to join. If you’re into building and renovating, this is such an amazing and supportive FREE community, so come on and join in the building goodness! - You can purchase our beautiful Quarters Magazine: Issue 1 – Building Fundamentals