I’m absolutely delighted to share that I was awarded 2nd place in the Collins Debden Design Award, in partnership with Billy Blue College of Design. It’s such an honour to have my submission recognised for its high level of quality and creativity — particularly by a company I’ve admired for so long.
For over a century, Collins Debden has been synonymous with beautiful craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and quality stationery that inspires creativity and organisation. Their notebooks and diaries have long been trusted companions for writers, artists, and professionals around the world — a testament to their enduring commitment to detail and innovation. As a designer who values both function and artistry, I have always respected Collins Debden’s ability to blend timeless elegance with contemporary style. To be acknowledged by such an iconic brand feels incredibly special.
My submission was inspired by a brief that encouraged us to create work reflective of our own personal design style. For me, that meant exploring Patterns from the Past — a concept that allowed me to dive into the rich decorative language of history while expressing my own voice through pattern and storytelling. I drew particular inspiration from Art Nouveau and the Arts and Crafts movement, both of which celebrate craftsmanship and the beauty of nature — values that deeply resonate with me.
Living in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, I’m surrounded by rolling hills, cool-climate gardens, and the stillness of the bush. It felt natural to weave my lifelong love of Australian flora and fauna into this collection, combining hand-drawn and painted elements with digital illustration. Among these motifs, I chose to feature the kingfisher — a bird that has always held symbolic meaning for me. In many cultures, the kingfisher represents peace, prosperity, and renewal — qualities that mirror my own creative journey and the sense of calm and hope I find through design. Its vibrant colours and poised energy felt like the perfect emblem of joy and balance within the collection.
My colour palette echoed the landscape around me — soft eucalypt greens, wattle gold, and the delicate blush of native blooms — capturing the essence of the Australian environment while honouring the artistic traditions that inspired me.
Every piece I create is a reflection of my surroundings and my own journey — a story of reconnection, resilience, and joy. After stepping away from creative work for a time to navigate personal challenges, this project felt like a return to myself. To have that journey recognised by Collins Debden is deeply meaningful to me.
I want to extend heartfelt thanks to both Collins Debden and Billy Blue College of Design for supporting and celebrating emerging designers. This experience has been deeply affirming and motivating, and I’m genuinely excited about what lies ahead.
I look forward to possible future collaborations with Collins Debden, and to continuing to tell stories through pattern and design — stories that honour both craftsmanship and the natural world that inspires me every day.
