The 2017 Shaw Contract Design Awards get better with each announcement, and the addition of a talent like Mel Mackenzie is a great expansion of the judging panel. Mackenzie will be joining the market award judging panel to cast her experienced eye on the detailed design stories, encompassing sustainability & environmental goals, innovative design solutions, as well as the Shaw Contract flooring’s contribution to design objectives, of a range of architectural projects and designs.

Mel joined Tanner Kibble Denton in 2013 after many years with her own design studio, and is now responsible for a team of interior designers. She has contributed to the design of many significant commercial, education, healthcare, residential and retail projects over her professional career. Ahead of the 2017 awards, we’re happy to present this Q&A with Mel.

What do you like about the Shaw Contract Design Awards program?

Mel: The Shaw Contract Design Awards program is an opportunity to be part of a global community of design. For Australia and New Zealand in particular, it is an opportunity for entrants to see that despite our geographical distance from other design hubs, we are definitely producing quality design and spaces. For myself, an opportunity to collaborate with other judges, discuss new design trends, and exchange ideas is something that is rarely possible when working as a busy design professional.

It is an honour to be invited to represent Australia and New Zealand on the panel. Being part of the team means that I not only have the opportunity to discuss global design with international contemporaries, but I can also be an advocate for Australian design, lifestyle, and culture which is so diverse and exciting.

What kind of projects/design trends are you hoping to see in the entries?

Mel: As a designer, I am always hungry for new directions and inspiration and so I am looking forward to seeing a fresh use of colour- bright but away from primary colours. I am also interested in the clever use of textures and patterns to create focus and encourage wayfinding. I am hoping to see flooring that isn’t just used as the feature of the space, but which compliments all other design aspects of the space and is an integral component. It will be great to see designs showcasing resilient collections, as these have only been available in Australia for the last couple of years.

What excites you most about the opportunity of the being a member of the Market Award judging panel?

Mel: I am excited to take a break from my normal practice and family life and be able to be immersed in great design from all over the world. It is an opportunity for me to grow professionally and meet new friends and potential collaborators from around the world. To be able to give feedback to Shaw Contract on new and upcoming designs will be a wonderful opportunity.

How will you represent Australian design on the Global Stage?

Mel: Australia is unique due to its location, geography, varied landscapes, climate and diverse culture. I think any opportunity that we have to showcase the great design culture and project outcomes we have here is important, and opens up more opportunities for collaboration with other global designers. As an Australian, I like to ‘say it how it is’ and be honest and genuine in all that I do. Australians are hardworking but love a laugh and I will be bringing these qualities and my love of great, fresh, and innovative design to the judging panel.

Click here to find out more about the Shaw Contract Design Awards