We recently spoke with designer Denai Kulscar to gain a glimpse into her world. Having somewhat accidentally fallen into design, much of her career today was shaped by her mum’s love of antiques and chandeliers.
For nearly 20 years Denai has been bringing her own passion and love for interiors to her client projects, but there’s something that’s extremely important to her in each of her projects—the person who’s going to be living in and enjoying the space. Rather than working to put her stamp on everything, Denai says her focus is always the client.
Denai’s designs are about luxury, but only in the sense that it’s comfortable, and she also works to bring a sense of harmony, tranquility and a seamless blending of old and new to evoke timeless appeal.
1. When did you first decide to become an interior designer and stylist and how did you get started with your design business?
Growing up I loved interiors and my mum always had beautiful antiques and chandeliers in our country home. You could say… I accidentally fell into interior design about 20 years ago when I started working in a boutique interior design firm. I instantly knew this was where I wanted my future to be. Twelve years ago after I had my second child I started my own interior design business which has had its' ups and downs but on the whole has been great. Interiors and creating all things beautiful is my passion and does not really feel like work.
2. What is the most challenging part of your job?
Co-ordinating all the different trades and suppliers can be a real juggle. Sometimes on one job I could be co-ordinating 30 different people and this can at times become very stressful.
3. Is there an interior design style you favour and do you have your own design aesthetic?
I really just love a classic, timeless interior that never dates. I like to work closely with my clients to understand what “look” they want in their home and guide them to achieve that.
4. Who are other interior designers you admire?
I love many designers and get my inspiration from a number of people. To name a few – Victoria Hagan, Ralph Lauren, Alex Vervoodt, Piet Boon and Thomas Pheasant.
5. What inspires you?
I am a little old fashioned and still get inspiration from my beautiful coffee table interior books – I have hundreds. I love to travel, looking at old and new buildings, fashion, and just a walk along the beach or going to my farm in the country can be where I create some of my best work.
6. What do you think is the essential piece of furniture we should all have in our bedroom?
Definitely a bedhead. Being a mum I also love an occasional chair as it really is the only room in the house where you can escape to get some quite time to yourself and read a book.
Get the look with Lavender Hill
Get the look with Lavender Hill
Get the look with Lavender Hill
7. What key element do we all need for a chic living room?
I love a fireplace this is one of my favourite things to put in a living room. I also think a rug is really important as it anchors the room and pulls all the furniture together.
8. Do you have a favourite project or story behind a project?
Yes it was one of my first really big projects when I started my own business about 8 years ago. It was a job that I met some amazing people who are now not only my close work colleagues but also my good friends. It was a job that taught me if you have the right team the project will run smoothly with hardly any issues.
When Denai’s not working on client projects, she’s likely working on her blog titled Velvet Style. She started the popular lifestyle blog after the passing of her father, and it’s certainly worth reading.
Much of her focus on Velvet Style is about being a busy working mum, juggling her interior design business with the demands in other areas of her life, and of course,t here is plenty of interior design inspiration.
Let's get personal ......
1. What else are you passionate about besides your work? Fashion, Beauty and Coffee
2. What is your most treasured belonging? My grandfathers antique fitness encyclopedias.
3. What's one thing people may not know about you? I love country music.
4. In 10 years I'd like to be .... travelling more but basically just living a very happy, healthy life.
5. What can't you live without? My family - husband and 3 gorgeous children.
