With over 30 years in the biz, designer Michelle Marsden has designed homes all over the world - from the shores of Palm Beach in Florida to Melbourne's Yarra Valley.

WILLIAMS MEDIA recently caught up with Michelle to find out the most interesting brief she's been given, to the trends she believes will stand the test of time.

Your website says, “We create more than a house, we create a lifestyle” - What do you enjoy most about your profession?

There are many aspects of being a designer that I enjoy. From the moment I obtain a brief and getting to know everything about my clients and what their needs are, to hanging the final piece of artwork, is a wonderful journey.

To me, designing a house is also building a nest. A nest that aligns unique individual needs, history of the family and what they love visually.

With over 30 years of experience in designing homes in Australia and overseas, what trend in your opinion has stood the test of time and remains perennially popular?

Houses I designed 25 years ago are still beautiful today. Interior and exterior mouldings and detail are still an integral part of my designs and have stood the test of time and are still appreciated.

Natural materials such as stone, and timber, have also stood the test of time.

Colour wise, I have been designing with black and white for most of my career, and I have found that clients are still asking for these colours. My personal house has always had black as a predominant feature colour, and when clients see it, they want it.

What advice would you give new property investors wishing to renovate?

Renovations can be very challenging. Asking friends and colleagues to recommend a designer or contractors who have experience with renovations is always safer than hiring from an ad.

I also advise my clients to always get three quotes for everything.

Having designed homes around the globe, including exotic locations like the Bahamas, Colombo, and South America what is the most interesting brief you’ve been given by a client?

I've been fortunate to have had many very interesting projects, with very interesting clients. Some too bizarre to put in print.

A basement wine cellar was challenging in a house without a basement. The room was dug out of an office floor. Bucket by bucket of soil until a room 3 m x 3m was dug out. The hatch was electric with a 1-inch thick perspex door which looked into the cellar.

Did you take on the project?

I collaborated with a Danish designer based in Miami, Florida on this project.

What advice would you give to a newly graduated designer or someone thinking about a career in design?

If a student needs to get a job while going to school, try working for Bunnings. It will give you a good understanding of materials when designing.

I worked for a Building Supply Store in Canada and asked to be trained in every department, from paint to hardware and timber. I still use the knowledge today.

Where do you live now, and where would you live if you could live anywhere in the world?

My husband and I live on the Nerang River on the Gold Coast. We enjoy a big garden with beautiful trees. Gardening is my favourite hobby and place to spend time.

I could live in Africa for my love of wildlife and the people. I have been fortunate to experience living in different countries. But Australia is still my favourite place to live.

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