Now in its third year, Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 program has established itself as the leading mentorship and career development program in the architecture and design industry. The unique program brings together game changers, industry leaders, practice founders, product manufacturers, suppliers and sponsors to celebrate and empower the young interior and product designers of the future.

In 2018, Kirsten Stanisich co-founded Richards Stanisich alongside long-time friend and collaborator Jonathan Richards.

With a deep passion for advancing design through innovative approaches and meticulous attention, Stanisich’s relentless quest for originality ensures every project she touches is suffused with a refined sophistication. Her expertise spans both the residential and hospitality sectors, and she frequently collaborates with major corporate clients on central business district projects.

An active figure in the industry, Stanisich engages in various events and award programs, including her participation as a 30UNDER30 judge, contributing her valuable insights garnered through her esteemed roles within the Design Institute of Australia.

ADR recently sat down with Stanisich to discuss mentorship, community and technology.

Australian Design Review: What motivated you to become involved with Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 Interior and Product Design stream for 2024/25 and share your expertise with the next generation? 

KS: I’ve been given many opportunities throughout my career to be mentored and learn from others so it is a great opportunity to put what I can back into this profession of ours. At the same time, I learn so much from these younger designers and get a better understanding of the issues that are influencing them.

ADR: Was there anything like 30UNDER30 when you were just starting out in your field?

KS: I can’t remember there being a program that was like 30UNDER30 but I do remember being unofficially mentored by some older architects and designers and it made an incredible impact on my career both from a design and business management point of view. The 30UNDER30 has opened up this opportunity further for our best young designers. 

ADR: Were there any other early-career opportunities that you recall as a turning point for you?

KS: One of the biggest turning points was landing my first job. I graduated during the 1990s recession, and the outlook for finding a graduate role was incredibly bleak. 

ADR: What is the best advice you have received in your career? 

KS: It’s one that you hear all the time, but being true to yourself is probably one of the best pieces of advice I ever received.

ADR: How important is it for designers to build a community of industry peers and mentors?

KS: The relationship we have with our industry peers is one of the joys of our profession. We share similar values and are often traversing very similar experiences too. There’s so much to gain from the camaraderie, friendships, support and the sharing of knowledge that make us better designers.

ADR: What do you notice about young designers you have worked with that makes them different from generations before? 

KS: I think most of the issues that face young designers over the generations are fundamentally the same, but the delivery process for projects has changed so much with the onset of technology and the increasing complexities of building regulations and planning. 

The workplace culture in general has also changed significantly, even since the onset of COVID-19. I think the younger generations have really helped to raise the issues of work-life balance and equality for all.

ADR: What will you be looking for when you are judging the entries into this stream? 

KS: I’ll be looking for designers who have started on a pathway that aligns with a good sense of purpose.

ADR: As well as being a judge of 30UNDER30, you will mentor the selected cohort. What do you hope to gain from mentoring the 30UNDER30?

KS: It’s a great way to connect with the younger generation and understand their issues and what drives them. 

Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 Interior and Product Designers stream is brought to you by major sponsor Neolith, alongside gold partners Interface, Miele and Tongue & Groove. The program is supported by practice partners Arent&Pyke, BVN, Billard Leece Partnership, Cera Stribley, COX Architecture, GroupGSA, Hassell, HDR, Richards Stanisich, Rothelowman, SJB and Williams Burton Leopardi.

Lead image: Loftus Lane project. Photo: Felix Forest