Live Life in Full Bloom
Q: Why do I need an Interior Designer?
An interior designer helps bring clarity to your ideas and turns them into a cohesive, functional, and beautiful space. At Brinnie T Design, we look beyond surface aesthetics to understand how you live, move, and feel in your home — balancing form, function, and personality so your space truly works for you.
Q; Is working with an Interior Designer affordable?
Yes — and in many cases, it can save you money long-term. Thoughtful planning helps avoid costly mistakes, poor layouts, and impulse purchases. We guide you on where to invest, where to simplify, and how to get the most value from your budget while achieving a polished result.
Q: Do I need to prepare for an Initial Consultation?
Not extensively. If you have inspiration images, Pinterest boards, or notes on what you like (and don’t like), that’s helpful. A rough idea of your budget and timing — even if it’s approximate — allows us to give realistic, tailored advice from the outset.
Q: Hiring an Interior Designer... how does it work?
We begin with an initial consultation to understand your space, needs, and goals. You’ll receive clear recommendations and, if you choose to proceed, a defined design package suited to your project. From there, we guide you through concept development, selections, and coordination with trades as required.
Q: What types of projects do you work on?
We work across:
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Full home renovations
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Kitchens, bathrooms & laundries
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Decoration and furnishing projects
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Disability-inclusive and accessible design
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NDIS-related home modifications
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Heritage and character homes
Every project is approached individually — no one-size-fits-all solutions.
Q: Do you specialise in disability-inclusive or accessible design?
Yes. Disability-inclusive design is a core part of our practice. We design homes that support real, everyday needs while still feeling warm, personal, and beautiful — never clinical. Our focus is always on the individual, not the diagnosis.
Because home shouldn’t look like a hospital.
Q:Can you work with NDIS participants?
Yes. We regularly work with NDIS participants, families, OTs, and builders to assist with design, selections, and layout planning. We’re upfront about budget limitations and help prioritise what will have the greatest impact on daily living and dignity.
Q: Do you project manage renovations or builds?
We are not licensed builders or project managers. We work closely with registered building practitioners and with builders & trades appointed by the client, providing detailed design documentation and ongoing design support to help ensure the finished outcome aligns with the agreed design intent.
Q: Can Brinnie T Design recommend a builder or tradesperson?
We may suggest or introduce builders and/or tradespeople whom we believe may be suitable for your consideration. However, the final selection and engagement remains entirely your decision.
You will contract directly with your chosen builder or tradesperson, and Brinnie T Design is not a party to that building contract. The builder is responsible for quoting, scheduling, site supervision, safety, construction methods, workmanship, regulatory compliance, variations, defects, warranties and completion of the works.
Before engaging anyone, we recommend checking their registration, licences, insurance, experience and references; carefully reviewing the proposed scope and contract; and comparing multiple written quotations where practical.
Our involvement with the builder is limited to providing design documentation and design-related clarification unless additional services are expressly agreed in writing. It does not mean that Brinnie T Design is managing, supervising, approving or guaranteeing the building work.
Q: Can I use my own builder or trades?
Absolutely. We’re happy to collaborate with your preferred builder or trades, provided they are appropriately licensed and open to working as part of a professional, collaborative design team.
Q: Do I have to purchase products through Brinnie T Design?
No. You’re welcome to purchase independently if you prefer. Many clients choose to purchase through the studio so we can manage consistency, specifications, and coordination. Where possible, we prioritise local suppliers and consider sustainable and ethical options within budget.
Q: I’m nervous about colour — can you help?
Yes — and this is very common. Colour doesn’t have to be loud or overwhelming. We specialise in layered, considered palettes that support mood, comfort, and individuality, including for clients with sensory sensitivities or neurodivergent family members.
Bold doesn’t mean chaotic. Calm doesn’t mean beige.
Q: Do you work outside Phillip Island?
Yes. While Brinnie T Design is based in Cowes, Phillip Island, we work across Bass Coast, Melbourne, Gippsland, the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane. Many services can be delivered remotely, with site visits arranged where needed.
Q: How do I get started?
The best place to start is an initial consultation. This allows us to understand your space, needs, and goals, and recommend the most appropriate way forward — clearly, honestly, and without pressure.
For further information or if you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to contact us about starting your design journey!
Brinnie T Design
5/26 The Concourse
Cowes VIC 3922
03 5951 9829
0400 1200 56
