Design Conversations
Saturday 29 March
BOYAC IN CONJUNCTION WITH LEONARD JOEL AND THE WOOLLAHRA 2025 FESTIVAL PRESENTS ‘DESIGN CONVERSATION – INTERIORS, ARCHITECTURE & LANDSCAPE’
Woollahra Festival is proud to present a day of insightful design discussions, celebrating the essence of home, heritage, and creativity. These two engaging panel discussions bring together industry leaders to share their expertise with the Woollahra community.
Whether you’re a homeowner, a design lover, or an industry professional, these sessions will illuminate the process of crafting a home that is both functional and soulful. Attendees will gain insights into the full design journey – from engaging architects to finishing interiors and creating outdoor sanctuaries. Experts will discuss sustainability options, community collaboration, and how to source and integrate unique, collectable pieces into meaningful spaces. Expect to be inspired by industry leaders sharing their knowledge and passion for design.
Join us for conversations that explore the heart of design and the beauty of curated spaces.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION!
This is an open event, welcoming both the Woollahra public and members of the architecture and design community. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or practical knowledge, these discussions will provide valuable insights into the creative process of shaping beautiful, meaningful spaces. Bookings essential – opening soon.
Location: Leonard Joel Auction Rooms, 36-40 Queen Street, Woollahra
This is a FREE event but please register to ensure your places.
For more information: Susanna de Vienne, sydney@boyac.com.au
Come be part of the conversation and celebrate design in Woollahra 2025!
Event Program
10am:
DISCUSSIONS OF THE HEART
Designing, Building & Finishing Your Home
How do you create a home that truly feels like a sanctuary? This panel delves into the ‘how-to’ of engaging experts – from architects to material specialists – to bring your vision to life. Gain insights on the fundamentals of design, the role of professionals, and the art of creating spaces that nurture and inspire.
Speakers:
Bianca Pohio – Architect, Pohio Adams Architects
Rob Mills – Architect, RMA
Paul Joseph Hopper and Bianca Moore – Stylists, Terrace Outdoor Living
William Stewart – Director, Natural Brick Co
Bianca Pohio – Architect, Pohio Adams Architects
Bianca Pohio is an architect with extensive experience across multiple disciplines, including retail, private residences, high-end commercial fit-outs, hospitality, exhibitions, residential developments, and furniture design. She integrates artful innovation with professional logic and rationalism, striving to create architecture and design that is engaging, poetic, and highly functional. Bianca approaches her work holistically, ensuring a seamless integration of structural design, interior finishing, and furniture detailing. She has contributed to numerous architectural exhibitions and award-winning projects through her practice, academic involvement, and previous professional roles.
Bianca Moore & Paul Joseph Hopper – Terrace Outdoor
With over 20 years of experience in design and horticulture, Bianca and Paul run Terrace Outdoor, a boutique garden design and retail business in Woollahra. Their flagship store offers a curated selection of plants, pots, furniture, and accessories from leading Australian brands, as well as international designer garden pieces. Terrace Outdoor also provides tailored design services for commercial and residential spaces, specialising in small urban gardens, balconies, and courtyards.
Rob Mills – Architect, RMA
For 30 years, Rob Mills of Melbourne-based Rob Mills Architecture & Interiors has been creating innovative and inspiring residences in his native Australia and around the world. His practice has a team of residential architects, interior designers and project managers, to deliver residential projects of the highest calibre; from contemporary city spaces to elegant heritage restorations, from grand country house designs to architecturally exhilarating beach houses.
William Stewart – Director, Natural Brick Co
William Stewart leads Natural Brick Co, a company dedicated to redefining the role of waste streams in the Australian building industry. Through research and innovation, Natural Brick Co produces sustainable bricks, furniture, and architectural elements that challenge conventional materials while maintaining strength, beauty, and environmental responsibility.
2pm:
DISCUSSIONS OF THE SOUL
The Art of Collecting, Layering & Designing with Heritage & Colour
As design moves away from strict minimalism, how do we embrace a richer, more layered aesthetic? This discussion explores the evolving art of collecting and curating interiors that tell a story. From heirloom rugs to vintage furniture, colour palettes, and personal collections, our experts will share their thoughts on designing with depth, emotion, and authenticity.
Speakers:
John Albrecht – CEO, Leonard Joel
Ian Perryman – CEO, Perryman Rugs
Alex Roth – architect, Roth Architects
Alexandra Donohoe Church – Interior Architect, Decus Design
John Albrecht – CEO, Leonard Joel
John Albrecht comes from a family with a strong legacy in Melbourne’s retail and auction industries. After founding Leonard Joel’s modern jewellery department, John pursued law and business studies, culminating in an MBA focused on the art market. Returning to Leonard Joel in 2009 as Managing Director, he has since overseen major private collections, set auction records, and solidified the company’s position as a leader in fine art and antiques.
Ian Perryman – CEO, Perryman Rugs
Ian Perryman began his career in the antique rug business in Sussex, UK, in 1985, working for one of England’s most notable rug dealers. After emigrating to Australia in 1990, he established his business in Queen Street, Woollahra, later moving to his current location in 1995. Initially specialising in antique carpets and textiles, Ian has since expanded his collection to include contemporary designs, traveling the world in search of exquisite pieces. As a Board Member of the Australian Antique and Art Dealers Association, Ian has provided expert valuations, advised museums and historic associations, and consulted for auction houses, private clients, and legal firms. He was also co-curator of the Powerhouse Exhibition ‘Pathways through Paradise’ in 2004.
Alex Roth – Architect, Roth Architects
Alex Roth, director of Roth Architects, has dedicated his career to blending design and construction in unique ways. His goal for each project is to create functional designs that do not compromise creativity or innovation. With a strong passion for heritage and conservation, Alex has developed exceptional terrace designs in Woollahra, Paddington, and surrounding areas, ensuring historical character is preserved while incorporating contemporary elements.
Alexandra Donohoe Church – Interior Architect, Decus Design
Alexandra Donohoe Church discovered her passion for interior architecture early in her studies and has since built a distinguished career leading her own award-winning studio. Drawing inspiration from her global travels and the mid-century Brazilian design movement, Alexandra creates interiors that blend refined curation, whimsical detailing, and unexpected material combinations. Her work has been featured in leading design publications, including Architectural Digest, Elle Decoration, Vogue Living, and Belle.
ABOUT THE MODERATOR
Laura Garro
A marketing and business strategist with a deep expertise in architecture and design-focused media, Laura Garro has spent over 15 years helping brands craft compelling narratives and expand into new markets. Laura partners with businesses to develop impactful storytelling, strategic positioning, and creative marketing solutions. Previously, she worked with leading publications such as Indesign, Habitus and Inside, shaping narratives that spotlight the industry’s most innovative minds. Passionate about the intersection of design, business and communication, Laura helps brands connect with their audiences in meaningful ways, both locally and internationally.