Today we are really excited to publishing the first of our monthly Design: Deconstructed features with Interior Designer Fiona Lynch.  Here Fiona shares with Est readers the influences behind her very own unique style of design.

‘Minimal Craft’

My own style is influenced by a wide range of interests such as art, design and fashion. I have assembled a mix of furniture, interiors, lighting and art that have me excited at present. Just thinking about my next project and ideas to draw on…

There is a common thread of refined minimalism and craftsmanship running through the work of each of these designers and artists that I reference here. Each piece and project has gone through a process of reducing and refining until they have created a perfectly minimal product or interior with a focus on craftsmanship. Take for example Rick Owen’s Curial Chair which relies on the use of only one material to create a silhouette with an impact that is strong and forceful.

Curial Chair by Rick Owens

Exploration of materials and colour is paramount in each of these artists and is boldly explored. This is the magic element that makes you fall in love. As materials have hidden clues – interpreted by each of us in our own way. Take for instance Tristan Auer’s bold ruby arches for Hotel du Lourve in Paris. How incredible to walk into this hotel foyer and be greeted by these.

Tristan Auer’s bold ruby arches at Hotel du Louvre

Fifty years earlier Jean Royere created his ‘Flic Flac’ table lights by folding metal bases. Like Tristan Auer he painted these in a bold red. Both have a strong form but explore simple materials.

Flic Flac table light by Jean Royere

Last week I was fortunate to sit in an original Knoll Platner chair. A classic piece with a very industrial exploration of materials, as nickel plated steel rods are curved into circular frames. These are on my wish list.

Knoll Platner Chair

Moody assemblage of recent lighting products by Dimore Studio shows this design firms commitment to creating their own products to support their interiors. Relying on a network of artisans their approach is truly inspiring. They acknowledge a link in their work between past and future. Modern with a historical bent. I love this approach.

Dimore Studio

Dan Hocking is a young Melbourne photographer whose latest series Sans P1 captures the purity of a quarry landscape. The large format size sweeps you up into this space in a magical way.

Sans P1 Series by Dan Hocking

While another inspiring designer at present is Fabrice Ausset who has recently refurnished an art deco apartment. This interior is pretty much perfection for me. Poured terrazzo floor, vintage stools, striking art and a deep blue wall wrapping around a corner. Joinery stops below a highlight window bringing the perfect amount of light into this hallway. All elements work harmoniously together no doubt through a rigorous refinement process.

Art Deco Apartment by Fabrice Ausset
Finally fashion designer Maison Margiela’s chunky brass ring has a chiselled rock effect with polished section explores a minimal approach to craftsmanship. If only I could chisel a big piece of brass for my next interior.

Rock Ring by Maison Margiela

So as you can see, I am inspired by vastly different things, however each plays a role in the output of my work and my life. I’ve always believed you need to be open to inspiration, as the smallest detail can have a profound impact. And while Instagram, Pinterest and the digital world provide endless visual stimulation, inspiration really can strike anywhere, so who knows where it will strike us next?

Fiona Lynch
3 | 59 Keele Street
Collingwood VIC 3066
studio@fionalynch.com.au