Hello, Robyn Cooper
At Stylemaker, we have been soaking up Robyn Cooper’s blog with oohs and aahs. You possibly have too?
Robyn’s support of the New Zealand design industry is to be applauded. Using elegant photography and snappy words, she is putting the spotlight on many talented Kiwi creatives, and capturing a heavy following.
Gracing her blog, Coopers Interiors, are a mix of architects, artists, interior designers, and others. Everything is pieced together from a solid awareness of beautiful design, and her genuine love of New Zealand’s finest interior products and design services. Robyn was a spatial design graduate in 2012, and now works as a graphic designer for a large venue company in Melbourne.
Her passion for interior design and her understanding of how people move through a space, literally squeals from the screen.
Robyn knocked our creative socks off when she reached out for a Q&A- so in good Stlyemaker fashion, we have now turned the tables and feature her below.
Describe your blog with only 5 words (I didn't think 3 was enough)
Inspiring, insightful, modern, simplistic and creative
What drove you to start the blog? / Where did your love of design blossom?
I think my love for design blossomed in high school. I took art, graphics, design and photography classes which were such a great outlet for me at the time. I didn't start the blog until I started university however. it started as an Instagram page, it wasn't until I moved to London that I was inspired to start a New Zealand design blog to share the talent we have in our little corner of the world.
What are a few resources you would recommend to someone looking to gain insight into starting out in this industry?
There are so many brilliant resources I would recommend for someone looking to gain insight into graphic or interior design industries. Here are just a few...
- Linkedin, never underestimate the power of good referees, your relationships and connecting with industry experts you can learn from
- Cooper Interiors, slightly biased but the creative Q&As are so inspiring! Especially for New Zealanders who can feel so detached from the rest of the world/ industry
- Blogs and Forums such as Design Milk, Girl Boss, Arch Daily, Creative Review, Dezeen, Houzz and Behance
Most enjoyable aspect of your job
Definitely coordinating photoshoots when I get the chance and just creating artwork for such different brands everyday.
Your outlook for your industry for next 5 years
Graphic design for marketing purposes is predominantly digital now or is at least heading in that direction. Creating things that last longer than a flash banner or an Instagram story that still reach a large audience will be harder to achieve... I tend to appreciate good quality print design and craftsmanship so much more now that is becoming a rarity in this particular industry.
What might (someone) be surprised to know about you?
I'm a HUGE Elvis Presley fan.
What is the most rewarding experience you ever have had and what made it so?
Probably moving to London after graduating university. I learnt so much about myself and what I am capable of. The whole experience was rewarding, kick starting my design career in England and moving out of a junior role in under a year was a huge highlight for me. I also met so many interesting and wonderful people which made the experiences I had unforgettable.
Who or what inspires you and why?
So many people/things! I love hearing other peoples stories which is why every second blog post is a creative Q&A. Learning how New Zealanders created a place for themselves in the industry they are so passionate about and worked hard to get there, really motivates me. I really hope it inspires other creatives too!
What is one word that your friends would use to describe you?
Ollie said lovely, Sophie said loyal and Hannah said driven.
Favourite guilty pleasure
Napping... as much as possible.
If you could meet any celebrity or person in the world who would it be?
This is a hard one, there are so many inspiring women I'd love to meet, but my answer has to be Beyonce.
Favourite travel destination
Rome. I can't wait to explore more of Italy one day!
Most adventurous thing you have done
Probably my Thailand trip! I volunteered at an elephant sanctuary then stayed in a small beach town over 3 weeks in 2014.
What is the last book you read
A murder mystery by Henning Mankell
What do you value most in other people
Honesty and kindness
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given
"Just do it"
What is your favourite colour
Dark Green.
What cities have you lived in and which is your favourite?
I grew up in Auckland then (after graduating university) moved to London where I lived for for just over two years. I now live in Melbourne. So far, London is my favourite city to live in but Auckland will always be 'home'. Melbourne is growing on me though!
Describe your dream home
White and grey colour scheme with lots of foliage, maybe even a green wall in the kitchen. It would have to have a big back yard with a pool, perfect for entertaining in Summer. Tall ceilings, concrete floors, lots of large windows, located near the beach. It'd also be covered in cosy throws and rugs and be a safe haven for all friends and family. Can you tell I think about this a lot...?
