Julie loves interior designing
JULIE Semple was "in her element" as she walked the floor of a Coco Republic showroom in Sydney.
The Rockhampton Define Home Style owner and her colleague, Deb Geiger, spent a week soaking up inspiration from the top interior design company in a TAFE course last month.
After styling restaurant Feast on East, Julie said she realised she needed some more experience in the field.
"We didn't really know how to do it so we did this course," Julie said.
"I think there's an avenue for it (within the store)."
Julie has renovated several homes with her husband and said she understood the time and effort that went into choosing the right pieces for each room.
"Because the course was all hands on it was right up my alley," she said.
They created several inspiration boards and drawings during the course, as well as speaking to one of Coco Republic's designers and touring a showroom.
Julie said Define sourced from more than 200 different suppliers and the course had definitely improved her buying skills.
"I like to get ideas and see what's around," she said.
"We're family-owned, not a franchise, so we're unique.
"If nothing else, at least now I know I'm on the right track."
Julie advised those styling their homes "not to be scared".
"Have everything neat and matching but then throw in something a little bit different," she said.
Julie will head to Melbourne next week to attend Furnitex, a furniture expo.
JULIE'S TOP DESIGN TIPS
Have a point of interest
Work with a budget
Minimalistic is out, comfortable chic is in. Think candles, mood lighting and flower arrangements.
