Kaila Cicchini is one of Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 Interior and Product Designers for 2024/2025. In this Q&A, we get to know more about the Perth-based creative coach as she talks impostor syndrome, finding purpose through mentorship and the unexpected joy of public speaking.

Kaila Cicchini. Photo: Flossy Photo

Australian Design Review: How would you describe your work?

Kaila Cicchini: Romolo Design Studio started off as my way of rebelling against the design school disconnect. Honestly, I felt so unprepared when I graduated – hello, impostor syndrome! Turns out I was not alone. So I took it upon myself to empower the next generation of designers by bridging that gap. 

I offer private mentoring and coaching sessions where we dive into real project insights into the intricacies of the industry, so young and aspiring designers feel confident and ready to land their dream job. Basically, I’m the guide I wish I had, helping grads navigate the job hunt and feel like they actually belong in the office. 

This year, however, things have been evolving. Romolo is now taking on design work, which is really picking up speed. I’ve always loved commercial, but I’m now channelling my experience with intricate, large-scale projects into creating impactful high-end residences here in Perth.

ADR: What guiding values drive you and what kind of impact do you hope to make through your work?

KC: My core value is pretty simple: treat others how you want to be treated. It genuinely guides everything I do. It’s why I really enjoy mentoring and being the person who looks out for the next generation of designers. It’s all I wanted at the start of my career.

I also just love helping people – building relationships and sharing what I’ve learned –  so the combination of design and mentoring feels right.

By 2027, I’m aiming to launch a recruitment service, online courses for aspiring designers, and create timeless, story-driven spaces that resonate with my clients, incorporating re-use and sustainable materials. 

Kaila’s design proposal for the KPMG offices in Perth. Photo: Dion Robeson

ADR: What has been a highlight in your career so far? 

KC: Oooft, that’s tough! Nine years in, there’s been so much. But if I had to pick one, it’s definitely the KPMG workplace fitout in Perth. It was my second big project at Woods Bagot, and I really got to drive it and own it, from start to finish.

The narrative was built on the land’s history, which meant working closely with Indigenous activist Dr Richard Walley to ensure the design was respectful and meaningful. That project was a huge success, not just for the client, but for me, too. I was 23 and responsible for so many aspects at such a young age – it’ll always be very special to me.

Oh, and last October, I spoke to a crowd of 120 people at a CO-architecture event! Somehow, I overcame my fear of public speaking!

ADR: If you could work with any designer, artist or other creative – living or dead – who would it be and why?

KC: Without a doubt, Faye Toogood! I’ve been completely obsessed with her work for ages and her ability to find inspiration from the unexpected. Her designs resonate with me on so many levels. I just love how she and her team constantly push boundaries, creating incredibly timeless pieces that are always so unique. 

I particularly admire her use of simple forms, proving that restraint can be incredibly powerful. And her process of hand-sculpting to explore shapes before going digital. It’s such a great reminder that sometimes we can start with our hands, rather than jumping straight to a computer. We nearly crossed paths at 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen last year. She’s lucky we didn’t, as I would’ve talked her ear off!

30UNDER30 member Kaila Cicchini in her creative happy place. Photo: Flossy Photo

ADR: How did it feel to make it into Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30?

KC: Okay, don’t laugh, but first I was in shock – and then I cried! I saw the list was announced and started scrolling, and to my surprise, I saw my face. I refreshed the page because I couldn’t believe it. But I was still there. So then I cried and called my husband!

I guess I’m just so over the moon and honoured that ADR recognised the blood, sweat and tears I’ve put into building Romolo, and the impact I’ve made on these graduates’ lives over the past eight months.

I’m really excited to be mentored and have access to the minds of Australia’s top designers. Basically, it’s time this mentor had her own mentor! I can’t wait to build my network along the way and see how ADR can potentially help me reach my goals.

Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 Interior and Product Designers stream is brought to you by major sponsor Neolith, alongside partners Krost, Interface, Miele and Tongue & Groove.

Australian Design Review is also grateful to our 30UNDER30 practice partners Arent&Pyke, BLP, BVN, Cera Stribley, COX Architecture, GroupGSA, Hassell, HDR, Richards Stanisich, Rothelowman, SJB and Williams Burton Leopardi for helping us foster the future of Australian design.

To find out more about the final 30, head to the winners page.