Wendy Bergman
Melbourne-based Wendy Bergman from Bergman & Co. creates breathtaking, opulent interiors applying a richness of materials, which celebrate colour and texture.
Photography: Eve Wilson, Timothy Kaye, Lillie Thompson & Derek Swalwell
‘It’s so ingrained into my everyday life that I’m always wanting to understand the nuances of good interior design, understanding how people interact, move and engage in a space,’ says Wendy Bergman. Photo: Timothy Kaye
H&F: Hi Wendy, when did you first discover a passion for interior design?
Wendy: I first discovered my passion for interior design as a young child. I was obsessed with redesigning my bedroom which happened once or twice every year. My parents were quite supportive, allowing me to choose my own paint colors, carpet, wallpaper, bedlinen and the likes. I loved indulging in this process, drawing up various layouts for my room and exploring which one I thought worked at the time. Growing up in country Gippsland, I was unaware interior design was a career path and it wasn’t until I was in my 30s that I decided to study interior design and pursue an interior design career.
What does a ‘normal’ day in the studio look like for you?
There are very few normal days! My days can consist of many things, such as site visits, meeting new clients and talking through plans and concepts for hospitality spaces, office fit outs, residential homes and multi residential projects.
I can also be in the studio working through design ideas with my team or responding to various emails and questions that evolve during the design process. There are days where I am shopping to style and complete a fit out, which is super fun. And then there are photo shoots that are ever so rewarding as we can share our designs with the world.
Has creativity and design always played a big part in your life?
With most of my work being hospitality design, I’m compelled to evaluate how and why venues work or don’t work. It’s so ingrained into my everyday life that I’m always wanting to understand the nuances of good interior design, understanding how people interact, move and engage in a space. I use what I’ve learned to create spaces that are not only desirable to be in but are also successful outcomes for the people I’m working for – Bergman & Co. are stewards of the interior design vision of our clients.
How would you best describe your interior style?
That’s a hard question as I like to look at each new project like reading a new book. The client’s brief is such important information for us to build from, after all, we’re creating and bringing to life our clients dreams and visions – but of course with a Bergman & Co. twist. It’s our aim to push the boundaries and challenge expectations with unexpected resolves. What is Bergman & Co.’s style? I’m not sure… maybe it’s making sure we capture a sense of warmth and soul in every space, like it’s been there for a while.
“My motivation and drive comes from the knowledge, that together with my team, we’re transforming venues, homes and work places into spaces people are excited to be in.”
The Orrong Hotel by Bergman & Co. Photo: Eve Wilson
The Orrong Hotel by Bergman & Co. Photo: Eve Wilson
“Creating desirable interiors changes the way people live and interact – this is forever motivating and rewarding.”
You have a passion for usual decadent materials in your spaces - why is this so important to you?
I love the richness of materials that celebrate colour and texture. Sometimes it’s just about using a well-known material in an unexpected way. I quite often say all that glitters is not gold and there are many ways to indulge in fabulous design that doesn’t have to break the budget. My studio is a great example of this. We’ve painted out walls in a gold paint, and it feels like a luxurious hug.
What drives and motivates you?
My motivation and drive comes from the knowledge that, together with my team, we’re transforming venues, homes and work places into spaces people are excited to be in. Creating desirable interiors changes the way people live and interact – this is forever motivating and rewarding.
One thing you wished you’d known when you started designing that you know now?
Follow my instincts, listen more, ask more questions, not to shy away from being uncomfortable as this usually produces the most unexpected and rewarding results. It is OK to say no.
What’s been your proudest work moment to date?
Mmmm… I can’t answer this question. Each project is like a child, so individual and unique. The latest is always the greatest.
Where do you hope the future of local interior design will take us?
I strongly believe good design lasts the test of time. Sustainability and quality are key attributes of design we should be focusing on, along with supporting more local craftspeople and makers.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you would give someone starting out as san interior designer?
Follow your passion and get excited about the design opportunities that come your way. Passionate design leads to exceptional outcomes.
What’s coming up for you this year?
It’s a solid run now up until Christmas. We have some exciting hospitality venues, a pilates studio and a couple of exceptional homes due to be completed before the end of the year – some very exciting interior designs we look forward to sharing with you all. My daughter has moved to London this year so we hope to head over and have a very merry London Christmas with her.
