01 April 2009

Spotlight: Paula Dawes

DIAQ Council Member and long-time supplier to the design industry, Paula Dawes, takes on the challenges of a National role.

Paula Dawes is a familiar face on the Queensland design scene. As a supplier to the Architectural, Interior Design and Landscape Design sectors for over 23 years, Paula’s knowledge and experience has led her to a new position.

Late last year, she added the role of National Marketing Manager for Vertilux – window coverings suppliers – to her portfolio after two years looking after the company’s Queensland market.

“It makes me very proud that the Vertilux management - Ross Lava and Vito Fortunato, see that I can offer a wealth of experience that will give them 'coal face' evidence of what the market wants,” Paula says.

Paula has been actively involved in Queensland design for many years and has a commitment to nurturing design and returning something to the industry that has leant so much to her success.

“I have been shown a lot of respect in [the past 23 years] and that has made the learning journey so much more interesting,” she says. “And as additional benefit, I have the friendships... on both professional and personal levels.”

Paula’s role as a Council Member for the Design Institute’s Queensland Branch (DIAQ) have seen her work on two annual events – the qdos Awards programme and as Coordinator of the DIAQ Bubble and Speak Breakfast Series.

“The DIA Qld Council have a holistic approach to the industry - education, reward, promotion and with a strong belief in the students. We are well aligned,” she says.

Paula’s role at Vertilux matches perfectly with her own philosophy – to supply well-constructed products, made to last, that meet exacting standards and to be as accountable to the planet as possible.

This philosophy is not just talk for Paula and the company who, in November last year, discontinued the last of the Vertilux-branded PVC fabrics used in their window coverings – meaning that, now, all their fabric ranges are PVC-free and use durable Trevira CS and Polyester fibres.

With this strong direction, Vertilux lead the way in 2009 with a new catalogue and fabric ranges due for May.

Personally, Paula urges everyone to get involved in the design community: “With this involvement – whether it is to attend a function or to volunteer for a committee – can come long term friendships and greater knowledge.”