Unlike many of our interview subjects, I’ve never personally met Jen Lowe, but I’ve met one of her projects, and that’s practically the same thing, right? I distinctly recall visiting one of her interiors while in Perth a couple of years ago (ummm yeah – I’m talking June 2016, so this is another interview that’s taken a very long time to come to fruition, but I’m sure you’ll all agree it’s been well worth the wait!). Anyway, the project in question was Chicho Gelato in Northbridge which, despite being tiny, is a pretty special little place and I instantly found myself on the hunt for its creator, which didn’t prove too easy, I must admit. Serendipitously, we were in the process of chatting to Nick Harding of Ha Architecture around the same time (who’s a bit of a top bloke – you should totally revisit our chat here), who happened to have completed a project in collaboration with Jen. Jackpot!

So… Back to Jen. This clever lady is an Interior Architect, Artist and Fearless Founder of Ohlo Studio, and I’m pretty confident that if you’re not familiar with her work already, you definitely won’t be forgetting about it any time soon. Cause this woman is a serious talent.

The foundation of Jen’s business was built on a passion for creating unique interiors and timeless objects that together form cohesive and authentic spaces. Whether designing high calibre residential, hospitality, retail and commercial projects, Ohlo Studio’s fundamental approach is to create a unique identity for each project influenced by a keen appreciation of place, craft and connectivity. Each project is delivered with instinctive attention to detail and function for a truly memorable outcome.

Please make some noise for the brilliant Ms Lowe! X

+ Hello Jen, welcome to Yellowtrace! Could you please give us a quick introduction? When did you first decide you wanted to become an interior designer? And when did you decide it was time to start your business?

+ What is your main priority when starting projects? Is there something that is fundamental to your practice – your philosophy and your process?

+ How is your studio structured? How many of you work in the studio, what types of skills do you have in-house, is there anything you are outsourcing, and how many projects do you handle at any one time?

+ How do you organise and manage the competing demands of modern business and life? Do you have any tip or tricks you could share with us that help you in your day to day?

+ What do you feel is the most challenging part of being an interior designer today? And if you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?

+ What are some of your methods to stay motivated, focused and expressive? And your top 3 main sources of inspiration and references you are drawn to regularly?

+ Who or what are some of your influences? What other designers, peers and creatives, in general, do you admire?

+ What advice would you give to emerging interior architects who want to follow your path? What was one of your biggest lessons learned since starting your practices?

+ What would be your dream creative project or collaboration?

+ What’s next – can you share with us your vision, some of your goals (and some of your current projects)?

+ What’s the best mistake you have ever made?

+ Your most treasured belonging?

+ What’s one thing other people may not know about you?

+ It’s not very cool, but I really like…

[All images courtesy of Ohlo Studio. Photography credits as noted.]