I didn’t study design in the traditional sense —  I just kind of winged my way into it, learning and absorbing as I went and before you know it I had an award winning studio with 7 staff, was judging design awards and helping define the look and tone of our city after the earthquake through campaigns and branding

Looking back though all the pieces fit, there was never a plan, and ambition in becoming a designer as a career — I didn’t even know that was possble and it was about creating, making, playing drums and the rest just happened. I’d like the site to have that same energy, just talking to designers, hearing how they think, how they work, and how they found their way into this field in Aotearoa. 

I want these interviews to feel honest and useful, about the mistakes, and wins, the luck and the hard work. Whether you’re a student or a peer, It is about learning from the trip along the ridge, sharing what works, and passing on the bits that matter… and the bits that don’t

Stephen McCarthy