How I got here: A conversation with leading creatives in architecture and design

Join Indesignlive and Royal Oak Floors for an intimate panel discussion unpacking the stories behind some of Melbourne’s leading designers, both emerging and established. From early influences to pivotal decisions and lessons learned along the way, this conversation will offer candid reflections on the creative journeys that have shaped three distinct voices in architecture and design.

Adèle Winteridge, founder and design director of multi-disciplinary design practice Foolscap Studio, Anouska Milstein, founder and director of interior design practice A.mi, and multidisciplinary designer Dean Norton will be joined by design editor and journalist Alice Blackwood, who will moderate the conversation.

This is a must-attend conversation for emerging designers and anyone interested in the pursuit of creativity. Drinks and light refreshments will be provided.

Panellists:

Adèle Winteridge

Adèle Winteridge is the founder and design director of multi-disciplinary design practice Foolscap Studio. Adèle conceives all projects as critical investigations of human-centric, biophilic and sustainable design. Keenly strategy-driven, Adèle and her diversely talented team continually question the boundaries of what design can do for people, places and communities. Where solutions do not currently exist, her mandate is to test, provoke and creatively innovate. Working across the commercial, hospitality, residential and public realms, Foolscap Studio has been widely acknowledged and awarded for its endeavours to meaningfully contribute to urban communities’ identities and liveability.

Anouska Milstein

Anouska Milstein, founder and director of interior design practice A.mi, is known for her thoughtful, intuitive approach to creating spaces that are both deeply personal and effortlessly functional. With a refined eye for detail and a passion for history of design, she blends form and feeling to craft environments that truly reflect the lives and essence of those who inhabit them. Drawing on a strong foundation in spatial planning and aesthetics, Anouska balances beauty with practicality, often incorporating natural textures, clean lines, and layered elements to evoke warmth and clarity. Her work is informed by a deep sensitivity to her clients' stories and a commitment to honest, collaborative dialogue. Whether designing homes, workspaces, or hospitality venues, she brings a calm, grounded presence and a dedication to excellence and longevity. In her practice, Anouska nurtures a holistic approach to creative business - one that honours wellbeing, integrity, and the value of meaningful connection.

Dean Norton

Dean Norton is a multidisciplinary designer and collaborator who develops products that consider form, function, refined detailing and harmony in materials. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, he aims to create enduring performative works that connect on an emotional level, merging a balance between art and design whilst maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. Born and raised in Essex, England, Norton originally studied graphic design before continuing his journey as an interior designer, graduating in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts degree (Hons) in Retail Interior Design from the University of the Arts London. Now based in Melbourne, Norton launched his studio in 2017, drawing upon his design experience to create visually engaging, locally made pieces including furniture, objects, and lighting, re-imagining a variety of sculptural forms through the exploration of finishes and materials such as glass, mirror, steel, and timber.

Moderator:

Alice Blackwood

A nerd for words and also pretty passionate about all aspects of architecture and design, Alice has put her editorial and strategic communications skills to good use over the past 20 years. She was Editor of Indesign magazine and Managing Editor of Cubes magazine until 2023, before joining Artedomus as Editorial Director in 2024. She’s worked on international design festivals, regional awards programs, and been pretty active in design media, which has enabled her to foster and develop programs and platforms that recognise and celebrate outstanding architecture and design – and the industry leaders who mastermind all that exceptional work. She also doesn’t mind public speaking, and pops up pretty regularly as a moderator, MC, judge, commentator, mentor and advisor.