The Graduates of the Year Awards (GOTYA) 2024 celebrate excellence in interior design, recognising the outstanding achievements of students from Australian tertiary institutes and DIA member institutions. Presented by the Design Institute of Australia (DIA), these prestigious awards highlight the talent, dedication, and innovation of emerging designers, setting a benchmark for excellence in the industry.
Being nominated for the GOTYA awards is a testament to the skill and hard work of our students at The Interior Design Institute (IDI). We are proud to support and nurture such talent, providing students with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their design careers.
In this series, we introduce you to our talented nominees, delving into their passions, inspirations, and the projects that earned them their nominations. Today, we are thrilled to share our interview with Amanda Reynolds. Read on to discover her journey, design ethos, and the work she submitted for her award nomination.
Image source: Graduated #IDIstudent Amanda Reynolds from @alr.studio
My name is Amanda. I live on the Gold Coast with my partner Chris and our four boys. We embrace the beach life and are active members of our local surf club. When I'm not designing, you can find me running or cooking up a storm with a glass of pinot in hand.
I have always had a passion for design and interiors. It’s the only role I have worked in that I can say I have consistently had a passion for.
Everywhere from beautiful restaurants, nature, art, Pinterest…there is so much beauty all around us and so many talented and creative people.
I am not really a trend follower to be honest. I think being authentic is the key to great design and personalising your space.
I tend to lean towards Modern Australian with a hint of coastal (not a lover of white on white). I love the warmth of the oak and the colour palette of the Australian landscape. I love Australian flowers and botanicals, Australian sunsets and the ocean.
My partner and I dream of buying and renovating a family home a stone's throw from the beach. It would be our ultimate dream come true!
To have my own design studio with a space that can be hired out for photo shoots!
I am mum to 2 boys and step mum to 2 boys so my days are quite hectic between work, school and sport. It is a juggling act but I am passionate about both roles so we just make it work (p.s. any tips welcome).
Other than my family, hearing that my client is happy with the outcome of their project. It is the most rewarding and fulfilling feeling.
YES!!!! Omg yes! It can be quite isolating as a designer so having other designers to bounce ideas around with and receive feedback from is so important.
One of my first projects was a full beach home renovation on the Sunshine Coast. I designed all the joinery for this project and seeing my designs come to life was incredible.
I am so honoured to be nominated. Interior Design is something I have always wanted to do. Just having the courage to enrol and then completing my Diploma was a huge achievement for me so being nominated for this award and hearing all the feedback from my tutor Linda Bistricic has just been the cherry on top. I am blown away.
I think it already has to a degree because it has made me feel more confident in my work. I hope the exposure will open up some new and exciting opportunities for me.
I submitted two projects from my Diploma. A complete redesign of the interior of a freestanding, two-storey Victorian Terrace House located in Paddington, NSW, and an office design & decorative scheme which entailed designing a suitable office space for an Interior Designer and a Design Assistant. My third project was the first project I completed in my business which was a Sunshine Coast beach house renovation that included the redesign of the interior of a freestanding, residential home and guest house including the conversion of a garage into an ensuite, WIR and spare bedroom/office. Complete gut and redesign of the existing kitchen, main bathroom and ensuite.
Image source: Projects by Graduated #IDIstudent Amanda Reynolds from @alr.studio
Cooking, I’m a feeder!
Every colour but purple.
“Let the beauty of what you love, be what you do” - Rumi.
I am obsessed with @carawoodhouseinteriors at the moment and I love following along on @renovatingmates renovations and @shaunlockyerarchitects designs are breathtaking!
Creative, functional & inviting.
I joined a few Interior Design forums and groups and it was always highly recommended. I loved the flexibility and the fact that the Diploma was recognised by the DIA.
Learning the Advanced Sketchup Module to create 3D models. I love bringing my designs to life.
Keep going! Do not worry about how long it takes you or how long it is taking other people, do not compare your work, just focus on you.
I was very fortunate and obtained part-time employment as a Design Assistant with a joinery company whilst completing my Diploma of Interior Design. Since completing my study, I have started my own design business and contracted as a Property Stylist for a home staging company.
My favourite project has been a full beach home renovation. I have also completed the design for a small bathroom renovation, custom joinery design, and provided decoration packages and styling services for 2 commercial spaces.
Come say hi at @alr.studio on Instagram.
Amanda’s journey showcases the transformative power of dedication and education in interior design. By enrolling in The Interior Design Institute, you too can gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in the industry. Our comprehensive courses provide a fantastic gateway into the field, offering the perfect stepping stone for recognition and success. Ready to take the next step in your interior design career? Enrol now!
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