Introducing Nicky Karim, Design Director at Studio 103. With 16 years of experience in the industry, Nicky is always finding new and extraordinary ways to create innovative and beautiful spaces for her clients. With an impressive portfolio under her belt, including an office space with secret bar accessible by pulling a spoon, there’s no stopping this powerhouse designer. Continue reading to learn more about Nicky’s remarkable career, and get to know the powerful woman behind Studio 103.

 U. How did you get into design?

N. I have always known I wanted to be in the Architecture and Design industry since I was about 16. Historic architecture has always fascinated me and sparked a sense of wonder and inspiration. So, it was a rather easy decision jumping right into an interior architecture degree straight after finishing high school.

U. Your portfolio consists mostly of workplace projects, what made you gravitate towards this sector?

N. My first job as a graduate about 16 years ago was with BVN Architecture. It was there that I worked on my first-ever project, a workplace design that went on to win multiple design awards. That experience made me realise that the workplace sector is incredibly dynamic and offers endless possibilities. Workspaces used to be defined by cubicles and corridors, but that’s well and truly a thing of the past.  These days I am putting bars and cafés into the workspaces I design. We know that design can play a crucial role in the way people work and with all the best practice strategies we put in place while designing these spaces, have significantly transformed it from what it once used to be, making the future of the sector really exciting!

U. Apart from workplace, what is your favourite sector you’ve worked in?

N. To be honest, workplace and hospitality are two of my favourite sectors. I particularly enjoy designing bars and restaurants because of the level of detail required, which can quite often elevate the design to new heights. Additionally, working on commercial projects such as lobbies and end-of- trip facilities is also something I enjoy. Above all, what I find most fulfilling is creating an experience for the end-users, which is a common thread that runs through all these sectors.

Koustas & Co – Melbourne, VIC

U. What is your design process, and does it change much depending on the project?

N. My design process is quite simple really. The most important factor for me is getting to know the client and their unique personality. By building a strong relationship and understanding their design brief and functional requirements for the space, it becomes quite easy to discern their vision and turn it into the best possible design outcome. In addition, implementing best practice strategies throughout the process is also an integral part of my approach.

U. What are your tips for collaborating with clients to create the best possible space?

N. Building a strong relationship with my clients is crucial to the success of a project. To better understand their preferences and expectations, I often present design possibilities early on in the process. This helps me tailor the design solution to their specific needs, resulting in a smooth overall experience. Engaging a good builder also really helps with the process. One of my biggest tips is to be prepared for the value management process, with some options to reduce costs without compromising the integrity of the overall design. Reducing costs is often an inevitable part of the design process, but you always want to ensure that the end result retains the “wow factor”.

U. What do you love most about design?

N. What I love most about design is its limitless potential. Design has no rules, no boundaries – we can colour outside the lines as much as we want. I also love that imagination plays such an important role in the design process; if you can envision it in your mind, you can usually turn it into a reality.

Level 14, 412 St Kilda – St Kilda, VIC

U. What advice would you give to someone entering the interior design business?

N. It is not always as glamorous as it looks. There are long hours involved and each phase of the design process comes with its own challenges. That said, it’s worth every minute when you see your work come to life. It’s an incredible feeling that never goes away – even after 16 years in the industry.

U. What are your upcoming trends predictions?

N. We’re seeing workplace design move towards a more residential feel, particularly post-COVID lockdowns. Agile and collaborative working remain significant influencers in shaping the workplace design.  Simultaneously, there is an increasing focus on sustainability – businesses and employees are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and that’s pushing us to be more innovative with our designs. In the hospitality sector, Australian bars and restaurants are taking cues from European trends, which is making the future of the industry a really exciting one!

Cornwalls Law – Melbourne, VIC

Quick Fire Questions:

U. Working digitally or on paper?

N. Both! Digital is better for quick design explorations, but paper is so therapeutic and I’m a bit old school sometimes!

U. Early bird or night owl?

N. Early bird. 5am gym sessions always start my day right.

U. Favourite project?

N. Oh, this is such a hard question! I definitely have a few. But If I answer this, the rest of my clients will come after me. So, no comment!

U. Guilty pleasure?

N. Old school 90’s RnB. But don’t tell anyone. I will deny it.

U. Best and worst interior design trends?

N. Neutrals and, or colour blocking when done well, has always been quite beautiful. Worst trend has to be 90’s patterns and Word Art. Ooof.

U. You’re hosting your dream dinner party, who are your three guests?

N. Zaha Hadid, Elvis Presley, Neil Armstrong.

U. What’s next for Studio 103?

N. The future for Studio 103 is looking very exciting. We have some incredible projects in the works! (in the workplace, residential & hospitality sector). We have grown from 5 to 12 in the last two years and forecasting more growth in the immediate future!

Learn more about Studio 103 here.

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