A stand out feature of Indesign 53 is our ‘New on the Block’ photo feature. We hand picked inspiring individuals whom we recognised to be on the rise in their particular design discipline.   We are pleased to collaborate here with Indesign Magazine to bring you more from the fresh faces we introduced you to in Indesign 53.

Your top 3 influences.

I wish I could say Obama or a superhero. But my top 3 influences are my husband, parents and family. My parents and family are refugees from the Vietnam War. They have shared incredible stories about their lives and it always makes me feel so fortunate.

The moment you knew you wanted to work in design/architecture/planning industry.

I don’t think I had a moment. I accidentally fell into this industry. I originally wanted to be a pilot but chickened out at the last minute. Then, I randomly choose to be a town planner and I haven’t looked back since.

Favourite local landmark/building.

Is Tasmania considered local? If so, MONA. I can’t get over the fact that this is a private collection.

Favourite material.

Timber.

Favourite international landmark/building.

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum.

Biggest career moment.

A few years back when I was a graduate, I got given a project to start a property fund from scratch. We weren’t able to get it off the ground but it taught me a hell of a lot about how to create something from nothing.

Dream project to work on (real or imaginary).

The Highline. I love that the community drove this spectacular urban renewal project. And I describe it as an urban renewal project as it wasn’t just about the open space outcome but a balancing act with the development expectations that makes this project truly successful.

Dream person to collaborate with.

Mark Rothko.

Favourite decade of design.

1950’s – 1960’s. Check out Rose Seidler House and you’ll know why.

Favourite chair.

The Tolix High Stool. Every time I sit on one I feel taller than usual.

#1 concern for the design industry in the coming decade.

Are there enough mentoring opportunities and are we sharing our experiences across generations?

Which items in the workplace can you not live without?

Post it notes and my MUJI pens.

The most unusual/interesting thing about the way you work.

I like to call it “swanning around the office”. I don’t believe in sending someone an email if I don’t have too. Get up and go talk to them. Unusual for Generation Y, I know.

UrbanGrowth NSW

urbangrowthnsw.com.au