interior designer mardi doherty
Individually the partners behind Doherty Lynch - Mardi Doherty and Fiona Lynch - have a wealth of experience working on world-class interior projects. Since joining forces they are fast becoming a well-known entity with a slew of awards to back them up. While Fiona comes from an fine arts and interior design background, Mardi has earned her stripes at some of the world's best known design and architectural firms, including the Conran Group in the UK and the David Collins architecture studio. During her time in Europe she worked on a range of projects - from the interior for Madonna's home in Belgravia to the retail fitouts for the Diesel fashion brand.
Which five words best describe you? Enthusiastic, driven, loyal, active, loved.
How did you get your career start and what path have you taken since? I was lucky to work for Chris Connell at the beginning of my career. He gave me more responsibility than you would expect at that age, so I was exposed to all aspects of design, client liaison and seeing projects through to completion. At the time, we were working on the design of a London-based restaurant for Will Ricker, so I decided to head over and see it while it was being constructed. Three years later, I returned to Melbourne after a crazy time working for the Conran Design Group and David Collins. The one consistent thread in my career is that I have always had incredibly passionate, eccentric and creative bosses who were uncompromising in their commitment to their designs.
What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? Every problem has a solution – you just need to stay calm, take a step back, stare a bit and talk it through.
What’s your proudest career achievement? To see the NGV at Federation Square finally open! I spent three years working on the gallery spaces (while working for Lab Architecture Studio) with a passionate team of designers. It was a magical feeling when we could enter as patrons, rather than one of the working team.
What’s been your best decision? To start a partnership business after having kids – it's great to have someone to share the responsibilities with and it makes work a lot more fun.
Who inspires you? Strong, accomplished women who pursue their dreams while still raising a family. One person in particular is my business partner Fiona. Not only is she an amazing designer, she is also organised and ridiculously capable, and she has taught me so much.
What are you passionate about? Travel, desserts, art, friends and family.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Salvador Dali.
What dream do you still want to fulfil? To study glassblowing while living in Murano, Italy. My passion for Murano lights and glass was heightened by a visit to Murano where I watched the artisans at their craft. The beautiful fluid forms and bold, bright colours are incredible.
What are you reading? The recipe for Raspberry Eton Mess in Fleur Woods’ gorgeous book Food Fashion Friends.
images courtesy of doherty lynch