A few years ago, I fell in love with the area when I was commissioned to oversee an interior design project on an exclusive home not far from here. I was determined that one day I would return.

So, after spending 20 years in Sydney the time was right for me to move to a more inspiring and quieter place…with less traffic! And beautiful Lake Cathie is an ideal location, very similar to the Northern Beaches of Sydney (see photo of the view as seen from the studio) In addition, later in the year, I plan to build a beach home (of which I have designed) in the local area.

And business is already off to a great start, having been recommended to provide kitchen and interior designs to local clients. But my Sydney clients should not be worried, as SMB will make regular return visits over the next few months.

Ciao for now…I need to start practicing my Italian for my next big adventure…”Eurocuccina”!!

KBDI AWARDS – July 2011

I won! I was so thrilled to be nominated at the KBDi awards (Kitchen & Bathroom Design Institute) at the recent conference on the Gold Coast.  And it was so lovely to see some sunshine after all the rain in Sydney.

I was really surprised to be the 2011 Large Bathroom NSW winner; couldn’t believe my ears when they later announced I was also the 2011 Bathroom Designer of the Year NSW winner. Then….well, you could have knocked me over with a feather …I was speechless when I heard “2011 AUSTRALIAN Bathroom Designer of the Year…. and the Winner is… Michelle Burton”
I was stunned. And so happy….with an extra special thank you going to Designingwomen for their support over the years as well as introducing me to the award winning clients, Brindabella Bathrooms for their dedication to the project and my partner G….his talents are MANY.

I can’t believe that I will returning to Milan for Eurocucino April 2012 via Venice, Gustallia and Lake Como – an all expenses paid trip was the winning prize! Wow!

After the conference, I promised myself I would start a “news and views” section. I hope you enjoy reading it.  Sorry that the first story was all about me… but I was so thrilled to win!