A conversation with Lara Ette

Lara Ette (1998) is the Founder and Principal Designer at Lara Ette Design and Decoration in Sydney. Her passion is to create interiors that spark joy, make the normal special and bring people together.

You studied Commerce, Actuarial Studies and Finance at UNSW – what sparked your interest in interior design?

After graduating from my degree, I became an interest rate trader at ANZ and spent five years there. This career path led me to London, where I worked as a trader at Lloyds TSB. I was lucky to be in an industry that, in those days, was frequently ‘wined and dined’ and my now husband and I travelled around Europe as frequently as possible, so we had a chance to experience lots of beautiful hotels.

I started wondering who the person was responsible for creating these beautiful restaurants and hotels that were really able to evoke a strong response. I slowly began to shift my mindset and think about the longer term. The thought of changing careers was daunting but the more time I spent thinking about it, the more I decided it would be worth it.

What is your greatest achievement to date?

I think school was my greatest achievement (laughs). Since then, completing my very difficult degree with good results, moving to London, getting my first paid interior design job, starting my own studio and with each new project another sense of achievement.

What is the greatest challenge you have ever faced?

Aside from running a business and home schooling two kids during COVID-19?!

When I moved to London I was a little naïve and had not done enough research around visa requirements, so I was asked to leave the country almost immediately. I went to Belize on a volunteer program while I sorted out the paperwork. I lived with a family that didn’t speak English, my now husband was alone in London, and I had no way of knowing what the future would hold.

What would you say to someone considering a career in design?

There are many ways to be creative, try to think about your strengths and weaknesses and whether they will help or hinder you in your potential field.

Top design tip?

Observe! The world and interiors around you, the products and objects that you use and your emotional response to all those things.

Who was your greatest inspiration at CGGS?

My older sister was my inspiration through my student years – she remains so to this day. She has always forged the way and encouraged me to be the best version of myself.

Finish this sentence: Anything is possible…

I finished my Dux speech with something like this: “What you believe and perceive you will achieve.” So in response… Anything is possible if you believe and perceive.

Interior of the Pretty in Pink project in Paddington, Sydney

Photographed by Chris Warnes