Sue Carr is the founding principal of Carr, an architecture and interior design studio based in Melbourne with a reputation for timeless design. The studio has delivered landmark projects across Australia in residential, workplace and hospitality markets.

Sue has championed and cemented the power of design in Australia since opening her first interior design studio in Melbourne in 1971. Her appointment coincides with Carr celebrating five decades of design practice in May 2021. Her work as a practitioner and educator has been instrumental in redefining interior design as a core discipline and vital component to architecture.

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For five decades Sue has stood steadfast in her belief that design can make a positive difference to people’s lives. An alumnus of RMIT University, she has been a life-long supporter of design education through advisory, graduate and scholarship programs.

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Sue told WILLIAMS MEDIA, "The news was a complete surprise to me. I had no idea I had been nominated so it did take a while for the news to settle in. It’s impossible not to feel deeply humbled and honoured by the recognition."

"Keeping it a secret was difficult, especially from the people closest to me. Understanding the significance of the occasion and my responsibility to honour the process certainly made it more manageable." Sue continued.

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“Sue’s approach to establishing initiatives that transform aspiring young graduates into outstanding interior designers is visionary” shares Dr Suzie Attiwill, Associate Dean of Interior Design at RMIT University. “Her commitment to education and the future of the profession is unparalleled”. 

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Sue has never allowed her gender to predetermine her career or success in a traditionally male dominated industry. Her talent and determination, coupled with a firm resolve has inspired a generation of women. In 2016, Sue was named one of Australia’s most influential women in the AFR Westpac ‘100 Women of Influence’ awards.

Sue’s significant contribution to the design profession has also been recognised by several accolades within the industry. Notably in 2006 Sue was inducted into the Design Institute of Australia’s Hall of Fame, an award that celebrates the work of design visionaries.

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In 2010, she received the Gold Medal for Interior Design at the Interior Design Excellence Awards for her influential and enduring contribution to Australian design culture.

Sue’s pursuit of excellence for the betterment of the whole underpins her being.

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Unaccustomed to self-promotion, Sue has always favoured and taken great pride in elevating the achievements of her team.

“My mother has never sought individual recognition, yet recognition has often found her. Not one to focus on the past, she remains energised by the future and sharing her success with others. I am incredibly proud of her accomplishments”, says Nick Carr, CEO at Carr.

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