The Design Duet

More Than Beige: Brett Mickan on Bold, Beautiful Spaces

In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed Sydney-based interior designer Brett Mickan, whose fearless use of colour, love of vintage finds, and finely layered interiors have earned him recognition both in Australia and abroad.With over 25 years in the industry including time designing in Miami, Brett brings a global perspective and a signature style that’s anything but beige. From show-stopping homes and yacht interiors to theatre sets and exhibitions, his work blends drama, warmth, and timeless personality.We talk about: 🎨 How Sydney’s design scene compares to other states 🌏 The creative shift Brett experienced after working overseas 🛥️ Designing in compact luxury on yachts 🖼️ The secret to building depth with art, vintage pieces, and layering 💡 Advice for designers finding their own voice in a saturated industryIt’s a rich conversation full of wisdom, colour, and inspiration. Tune in to hear how Brett turns bold ideas into beautifully liveable spaces - and why great design always begins with a story.

From Generic to Joyful — Designing a Home That Reflects You

In the whirlwind of daily life, our homes can easily become just a pit stop—a place to sleep, eat, and repeat. But what if your home could be more than just a backdrop? What if it became a sanctuary that tells your story?In this episode, we explore how to move beyond cookie-cutter interiors and embrace design choices that feel personal, joyful, and deeply intentional. 2025 is all about bold self-expression, and we’re here for it.We cover: ✨ The quiet power of thoughtful window furnishings ✨ How to breathe new life into vintage and heirloom pieces ✨ Mixing textiles and patterns to bring personality into every room ✨ Choosing lighting and furniture that make a statement ✨ Displaying art and objects that hold meaning ✨ Using colour to shape the energy of your spaceWhether you're styling your first apartment or refreshing a forever home, this episode will inspire you to design with heart—not just trends.

Mid-Century Magic in the Desert – Palm Springs & Modernism Week

Palm Springs isn’t just a destination — it’s a design pilgrimage. In this sun-drenched surprise episode of The Design Duet, we take you along on Caroline’s unforgettable trip to the modernist mecca during Modernism Week — the annual celebration of mid-century architecture, design, and culture in February this year. Surrounded by desert landscapes and mountain backdrops, Caroline wandered through neighbourhoods lined with butterfly rooflines, colourful doors, and iconic A-frame facades. From swanky home tours to poolside cocktails, it was a week filled with design inspiration — and we’re sharing every detail with you. In this episode, we explore: ·       What Modernism Week is — and why it’s a must ·       What makes Palm Springs so iconic — and who calls it home ·       Martyn Lawrence Bullard’s eclectic LA home ·       The cliffside marvel that is the Frey House ·       Our “Rat Pack Tour” — a walk through Hollywood history ·       Inside the breathtaking James Logan Abernathy Residence ·       A visit to the historic Sunnylands Estate ·       Highlights from the Perez Design District ·       The magic of stepping inside Frank Sinatra’s house ·       The vibe check at The Vibe House ·       The bold beauty of The West House 

Building Better: From Floorplans to Finishes with Rob from Constructing Spaces

In this episode, we’re joined by Rob from Constructing Spaces — a boutique building company known for high-end homes, quality renovations, and multi-dwelling developments.Rob takes us through the real story behind great builds — from floorplans to finishes. We dive into current design trends, the shift away from open-plan living, and what downsizers are really after. He shares advice for overwhelmed renovators, busts a few building myths, and reveals how he collaborates with designers to bring a client’s vision to life.If you're planning a build (or just love the behind-the-scenes of how great homes come together), this one's for you.

From Travel to Property: Jacqui’s People-First Approach

This week, we’re joined by Jacqui Bendall- a fourth-generation Boroondara local whose passion for people has shaped every step of her career. After two decades running a successful travel agency, she made the leap into real estate, bringing with her a deep commitment to personalised service and community connection.Now working alongside her brother Scott in Melbourne’s inner east, Jacqui shares her insights on post-COVID buyer trends, preparing to downsize, what really sells a home (hint: it’s not just kitchens and bathrooms), and why working with a designer can make all the difference.Whether you’re planning a move or just love hearing from people who lead with heart, this episode is full of warmth, wisdom and real-world advice.