By Melissa Giuffrida - 02 Jun, 2021
“I like things pared back but I enjoy the memories of mementoes. I enjoy looking around and seeing my memories and things that give me a sense of place.” Kirsten Bookallil
Kirsten Bookallil is one of Australia’s most well known interior stylists who has worked at the leading edge of her industry for well over a decade.
Kirsten has produced both advertising and editorial work for likes of Vogue Living, Inside Out, Belle and Harper's Bazaar, just to name a few. If you read these publications, you would have more than likely viewed her work.
Read more about Kirsten’s interiors inspiration, her most cherished pieces at home and her favourite piece from Collécte.
Describe your style in 6 words or less.
Kirsten: Modern, Unexpected, Comfortable, Stylish, Looks expensive but isn't!
Which architects/designers/artists most inspire you?
Kirsten: Art is always inspiring as is design. I love Joseph Albers, Sonia Delauney and of course the Master Picasso. Design and architecture the purists inspire me John Pawson, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
What is your most cherished piece at home? (furniture, art, lighting or decorative)
Kirsten: My uncle William Kentridge pieces are my favourite. He is highly collectable but to me it's all an emotional attachment. I also love my Fortuny Lamp.
Kirsten's living room featuring a William Kentridge artwork and fortuny floor lamp. Image: Maree Homer.
Best piece of career advice you have ever received?
Kirsten: Be nice to the secretaries because one day they might be running the company - I have certainly seen it happen and then they have hired me.
What are you favourites:
Favourite Instagram account/s you follow?
Kirsten: There's a few actually @tabletonic, @thelocalproject, @somewheremagazine, @sydneydogsandcatshome, @piariverola.
Favourite galleries or museums?
Kirsten: White Rabbit and AGNSW, in NY it's the Tenement Museum and the Neue Gallery, both incredible.
Favourite way to unwind at home?
Kirsten: Tea in bed.
Favourite restaurant?
Kirsten: Ester in Chippendale - hands down!
Favourite podcast?
Kirsten: I do love Ester Perel but I recently did one with Mia Freedman for Mamamia/ No Filter and had the best time.
Favourite piece on Collécte right now?
Kirsten: I'm tossing up between the Vintage Owl poster and the Carl Hanson and Son Chairs.
Celestino Piatti Vintage Swiss Owl Poster, 1960.
Kirsten Bookallil Instagram @kirsten_stanwix_bookallil
Image Credit: Hugh Stewart
