26 episodes

The 'Two Gins In' podcast is A 'Designer's Perspective' on the design and construction industry hosted by The dynamic design duo, Karyn McRae and Helen Lynch the Directors of M + L Design, a boutique architectural and interiors studio based in Sydney Australia.

Karyn + Helen are two experienced interior and building designers with over 30 years of combined experience in the design and construction industry. These "Gin loving" women are on a mission to educate home renovators and new home builders on the ins and outs of the design and construction world and its processes. Through this podcast series, they aim to share their wealth of knowledge and expertise, helping listeners avoid common mistakes and make informed decisions when it comes to their investments.

Two Gins In - A Designer's Perspective Karyn McRae & Helen Lynch

    • Arts

The 'Two Gins In' podcast is A 'Designer's Perspective' on the design and construction industry hosted by The dynamic design duo, Karyn McRae and Helen Lynch the Directors of M + L Design, a boutique architectural and interiors studio based in Sydney Australia.

Karyn + Helen are two experienced interior and building designers with over 30 years of combined experience in the design and construction industry. These "Gin loving" women are on a mission to educate home renovators and new home builders on the ins and outs of the design and construction world and its processes. Through this podcast series, they aim to share their wealth of knowledge and expertise, helping listeners avoid common mistakes and make informed decisions when it comes to their investments.

    #26 New Home Builders Michelle & James Gallanos

    #26 New Home Builders Michelle & James Gallanos

    In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Michelle and Jamie Galanos to delve into their exhilarating journey of building their dream home in Sydney's Connells Point. From the initial spark of inspiration to the final nail hammered, they shared candid insights into every facet of the process. What struck me most was their candidness about the highs and lows, particularly in navigating the myriad decisions and unexpected hurdles that cropped up along the way.

    One of the most poignant moments of our conversation was when Michelle and Jamie spoke about the pivotal role of collaboration in their project. They emphasized the symbiotic relationship between clients, designers, architects, and builders in weaving together a tapestry of functionality and aesthetic appeal. It was clear that their gratitude for the expertise and guidance provided by the design team ran deep, underscoring the immense value added to their project.

    As our conversation drew to a close, it was evident that Michelle and Jamie's journey was more than just constructing a house—it was about crafting a home filled with warmth, functionality, and beauty. Their story serves as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, communication, and unwavering dedication to bringing a vision to life. To catch a glimpse of the stunning Coastal Contemporary project, head over to our Instagram and join us in celebrating the joy of creating spaces that inspire and uplift.

    • 24 min
    (#25) Interview with Adam McDonald from Impressions Landscape Designs

    (#25) Interview with Adam McDonald from Impressions Landscape Designs

    Join us as we welcome Adam McDonald, whose journey into landscape design was sparked by a love for creativity and nature. From humble beginnings to national recognition, Adam shares his insights on overcoming challenges and exceeding client expectations. His commitment to unique, personalized designs resonates with our own approach, making him a perfect fit for today's conversation.

    Adam delves into the unique challenges he's faced, from transforming steep, rocky terrains to navigating limited access sites. His innovative solutions, such as custom-cut stone steps and efficient terracing, showcase the intersection of creativity and practicality in landscape design. Through collaboration and forward-thinking, Adam demonstrates how thoughtful planning enhances the cohesion and success of any project.

    In the world of landscape design, every challenge presents an opportunity for innovation and creativity. Join us as we uncover Adam's insights, strategies, and the timeless appeal of his approach to crafting captivating outdoor spaces. Whether you're a seasoned designer or a budding enthusiast, this episode promises to inspire and enlighten, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the artistry behind every garden masterpiece.

    • 32 min
    (#24) Roadtrip with M & L

    (#24) Roadtrip with M & L

    In the latest episode of "Two Gins In Design," hosts Karyn and Helen embark on a road trip to Mudgee, New South Wales, where they're set to lead a Mood Boarding Masterclass. As they journey, they discuss essential factors for home renovations, stressing the need for clarity, budget management, and active involvement in the planning stages. They emphasize the importance of articulating renovation goals clearly and being aware of financial constraints to minimize stress. Collaboration with professionals and effective communication of lifestyle preferences are highlighted to ensure the design aligns with individual needs. 

     

    Connect with us:

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    • 16 min
    (#23) Interview with Carla Condoluci

    (#23) Interview with Carla Condoluci

    In this engaging episode of Two Gins In: A Designer's Perspective, hosts Karyn and Helen delve into the world of interior design and construction with Carla, the passionate owner of a joinery business in Sydney. Carla shares her journey from working behind the scenes to pursuing her dream of kitchen and bathroom design, highlighting the transformative experience of completing a comprehensive design course. She emphasizes the intricate details involved in designing functional spaces, underlining the crucial balance between aesthetics and functionality.

    The conversation extends to the unique dynamics of running a business alongside her husband, Joe, where communication and respect form the cornerstone of their success. Carla's commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience shines through as she discusses the collaborative process with clients, ensuring their needs and preferences are met at every stage. Throughout the episode, Carla and her husband's dedication to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail emerge as defining qualities of their joinery business, setting them apart in a competitive industry.

    As the episode draws to a close, Karyn and Helen express their appreciation for Carla's insights and encourage listeners to connect with her for their kitchen and bathroom design needs in Sydney. The discussion serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in design projects and the importance of informed decision-making for achieving outstanding results in interior design and construction.

     

    Connect with us:

    Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Facebook

    • 37 min
    (#22) Interview with Ali Broinowski - Cloth & Feather

    (#22) Interview with Ali Broinowski - Cloth & Feather

    Welcome to Two Gins In, a designer's perspective, where hosts Karyn and Helen invite you to dive deep into the world of Interior Design and Construction. In this captivating episode, they are joined by the visionary guest, Ali Broinowski, the founder and CEO of Cloth and Feather, an esteemed interior decorating company nestled in the picturesque town of Maggi in New South Wales.

    Ali's journey from her background in pharmacy to her current venture in interior decorating is nothing short of inspiring. She shares her experiences and insights, revealing how her initial foray into helping people organize their homes led to the establishment of Cloth and Feather. Through her meticulous eye for detail and passion for creating welcoming living environments, Ali has redefined the art of interior decorating, making her a sought-after figure in the design world.

    The conversation delves into the crucial importance of early planning for window treatments in design, emphasizing the need for functionality alongside aesthetics. Ali's expertise shines as she discusses the philosophy behind Cloth and Feather's premium custom design and drapery service, offering valuable advice on how to approach bespoke soft furnishings for clients.

    But the episode doesn't stop there. Karyn and Helen share their own insights and experiences, reflecting on the challenges and successes they've encountered in their respective businesses. From educating the community on the value of property staging to navigating the intricacies of regional small business, they provide a wealth of knowledge and practical advice for aspiring designers and homeowners alike.

    And the excitement doesn't end with the discussion. Karyn and Helen have some exciting news to share: they'll be hosting a masterclass at Ali's beautiful property in Maggi on the 16th of March. This hands-on workshop promises to explore style foundations, mood boarding, and essential design principles, providing participants with the tools and knowledge to refine their own projects.

    So join Karyn, Helen, and Ali as they uncover the intersection of design, decoration, and inspiration. Pour yourself a drink, sit back, and immerse yourself in the world of Interior Design and Construction with Two Gins In, a designer's perspective.

     

    McRae and Lynch 
    Learn how to create your own materials mood board - Join us at one of our 2 upcoming in person workshops. Follow this link for more info and to secure your spot. Spaces are limited!

     

    Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Facebook

    • 30 min
    (#21) Kitchens Part 3 - Design Made Functional

    (#21) Kitchens Part 3 - Design Made Functional

    In episode 21, part 3 of the "Two Gins In" podcast, Helen, one of the hosts, takes listeners on a journey through the world of kitchen aesthetics and emerging trends for 2024. She begins by stressing the importance of blending functionality with style in kitchen design, highlighting the pivotal role kitchens play as both functional spaces and aesthetic focal points within homes.

    Helen offers practical advice for selecting surfaces and finishes, advising listeners to consider the overall style of their homes and prioritize durability to withstand the demands of daily use. She encourages them to be adventurous in mixing materials and textures while ensuring a cohesive design scheme.

    Emphasizing the significance of functionality, Helen prompts listeners to assess the ease of cleaning, suitability for their cooking style, and long-term durability of their chosen materials. She underscores the importance of strategic lighting placement for both aesthetics and practicality, recommending a combination of general and task lighting to enhance the kitchen's ambiance and functionality.

    Delving into emerging trends for 2024, Helen discusses the introduction of bold colors in cabinetry, the resurgence of featuring range hoods as design elements, and the increased use of timber in kitchen designs. She notes the enduring popularity of marble and stone, particularly in striking colors and larger veining patterns.

    Furthermore, Helen observes a shift towards a more lived-in look in kitchens, with a departure from minimalist designs in favor of displaying appliances and decorative items on countertops. She stresses the importance of personalizing kitchen designs to reflect individual preferences and lifestyles rather than simply following trends.

    To conclude, Helen invites listeners to download a free kitchen checklist from the show notes for further guidance and encourages them to visit the hosts' website and social media channels for additional design inspiration and information.

    DOWNLOAD HERE

     

    Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Facebook

    • 16 min

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