In this exclusive Q&A, Carmel Wylie, Senior Designer of GIA Renovations and the recent winner of KBDi’s Australian Bathroom Designer of the Year 2024, shares her insights on her winning design, importance of collaboration, and the future of bathroom trends.

What was the initial inspiration or concept behind the winning project?

Situated in an existing Victorian solid brick home, the client wanted to have an ensuite that felt like a day spa but didn’t stand out in the home. All the existing internal walls were solid in a map finish render which she wanted to have in her ensuite too. She needed a functional WIR with storage and she wanted it to fit in with the ensuite. The relocation of the existing toilet was requested also as it was in the main line of sight when entering the room. We needed to have a bath, toilet, shower, double vanity and robe all in the existing large rectangle space.

The client wanted to have a tranquil space with warmth and a buttery softness feel to the room. More like an extension of the bedroom than a bathroom.

 

What is your personal design aesthetic or philosophy?

I would say that my philosophy on design is all centred around the collaboration of the clients, the existing home I am in, and me. It is very important to be true to the space and to bring out the best features in a room without trying to turn it into something it could never be. I really enjoy working in renovations because of the existing limitations and solving all of the client’s problems in my designs. I also make sure to push my clients with their selections of both colours and finishes to take them to a place they are excited to be living in.

How important is collaboration with other professionals (e.g. interior designers, architects, builders, suppliers) in achieving a successful project?

As someone who has been in the industry for over 20 years I can say that it is everything. At GIA, we have a carefully curated team of tradespeople who are like family to me. Our boss has provided a community where the designers and builders work through each job with a positive attitude. We truly believe we can achieve anything with good communication. Our building team and trades understand my expectations and I understand their limits - then push them... We are blessed at GIA to have the ability to take the clients through form design to completion and be responsible and part of every stage of the job. This way we know that our design are translated exactly as we planned in our clients homes.

What are your predictions for future kitchen/bathroom design trends?

I would say less tiling and more natural stone details in bathrooms. Metallic finishes for more that just tapware, things like bronze shower screens and vanity units. Seats in showers are all becoming more and more popular and pushing away from the freestanding bath to built in undermount bath.

What are the biggest challenges facing the kitchen/bathroom design industry today?

The cost of joinery has absolutely skyrocketed over the last 2 years. I am constantly amazed at how much kitchen are costing. I also think we really need to start looking closer to the materials and finishes we are using and more emphasis on installing products that are friendlier for the environment and the people living in the home.

What advice would you give to aspiring kitchen/bathroom designers?

Check your measurements and then check again. Get onsite as much as possible to learn about what is possible.

Colours can be used in every occasion, it's more about the tone of the colour and what you are complimenting it with that matters. Trust yourself and enjoy the design phase. Have fun and it will come through into the outcome of the work.