Candyce Huntsman is a Melbourne-based interior designer who runs her own practice. AKI Design focuses on the furnishing layer of a project, where materiality, balance and atmosphere are carefully resolved. Below, the member of Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 for 2025/2026 reflects on her sources of inspiration, being featured in Vogue Living and the importance of collaboration.

ADR: Why did you enter the 30UNDER30 program?  

Candyce Huntsman: Entering 30UNDER30 for me was about gaining recognition within the industry and  challenging myself alongside a talented group of designers, as well as the mentoring component. At this stage in my career, I see it as an invaluable opportunity to grow and  refine my practice. 

I’m also excited by the opportunity to connect with other designers, architects and product designers. Our industry thrives on collaboration, and expanding my network, meeting new people and continuing to learn are all incredibly important to me. 

What do you think are the benefits of mingling with professionals from different  disciplines – architects with interior designers with product designers etc?  

Mingling with professionals across different design disciplines is incredibly valuable in an industry built on collaboration. When architects, interior designers and product designers connect, it encourages the exchange of ideas and broadens perspectives, leading to more considered and cohesive outcomes. 

For me, building relationships across these fields strengthens the way I approach design from spatial planning to materiality and detailing. Understanding how others think and work ultimately elevates my own practice. There’s also a practical benefit: projects often require specialist collaborators, and having a trusted network makes that process seamless. 

How would you describe your work?  

I would describe my work as considered, layered and rich. As I’ve grown as a designer,  my approach has evolved. I’ve become more daring with colour and texture, while  maintaining a refined and balanced aesthetic. Spatial planning is at the core of every project. I enjoy resolving layouts early, as it creates a solid foundation for everything that  follows.

I draw inspiration from many sources, including travel, furniture and design publications, and the unique direction each project naturally takes. Every space is an opportunity to respond thoughtfully to context, materiality and the client’s vision. 

What has been a highlight in your career so far? (e.g. a project, collaboration,  workplace, client, mentor, trip, award, realisation etc)  

I’ve been fortunate to have had a few career highlights so far. Being featured in Vogue Living was a significant milestone. It’s a benchmark publication within the industry and a goal I had on my list.  

Another standout moment was delivering our first retail space for The New Trend in Brisbane. It was a major project that generated strong interest and remains something I’m incredibly proud of.

Building and growing my business has also been a defining highlight. While challenging, the  process of scaling, learning and evolving has been deeply rewarding and continues to shape me as a designer and business owner. 

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

There are so many designers and architects I admire and would love the opportunity to collaborate with. Kelly Wearstler is someone who has truly shaped the path for  contemporary interior designers. Her work is bold, layered and full of character. She has built an incredible design language and working alongside her would be an incredible  experience. 

I’m also deeply inspired by Vincenzo De Cotiis. I was fortunate to see his work in Milan  during the design fair, and his approach to form and materiality is unlike anyone else. His pieces are sculptural, expressive and completely distinctive. 

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?  

In my spare time, I really cherish moments with my family. My days and weeks are often busy, so time with my husband and daughter feels especially meaningful. I also value  completely switching off from work, as it allows my creativity to surface in a natural way. I often seek inspiration by browsing design books, visiting vintage furniture stores or  travelling, letting my mind wander and absorb new ideas. These quieter, reflective moments are when my best ideas often emerge, helping me approach projects with fresh  perspectives and a sense of creative energy.

Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 is brought to you by major sponsor Neolith, alongside partners Designer Rugs, Laufen, Krost, Miele, Signature Appliances powered by Miele and Tongue & Groove.

Australian Design Review is also grateful to our 30UNDER30 practice partners AJC Architects, BVN, Cera Stribley, COX Architecture, Genton, GroupGSA, HDR, Richards Stanisich, RIZEN Atelier, Rob Mills Architects, Rothelowman, SJB and Design by WBL for helping us foster the future of Australian design.

Learn more about ADR’s 30UNDER30 here.