Architect / Interior Designer
Name: Louise O'Brien
Career stage: Senior - 10+ years' experience
Working: Office
High School Subjects: Art Theory, Ancient History
Favourite: Art Theory as I learnt the meaning behind some of the most imaginative minds.
Further study: TAFE
where and what: I studied a lot - first, Architectural Drafting, then Interior design at Enmore TAFE, then Architecture at UTS! Apparently I love studying!
"Never give up. Always be yourself. If you have a setback following your dreams don’t worry, shake it off and keep at it. Always follow your passion."
the inside scoop…
What does a Architect / Interior Designer actually do? I design whatever clients ask for help with, a kitchen or a house or a workplace for a bank.
What does a day in your life at work look like? All days start checking emails then no day is the same. Sketching, talking to suppliers, team meeting, off to site. Each day is different.
What's the best part of your job? Creating great designs that my client loves.
What made you realise construction could be for you? I just loved expressing myself through designing space.
What are you excited about in terms of sustainability in construction? Sustainability is humanity’s biggest reset. We need to rethink the way we do things, consume and consider the planet as our client. Its a really exciting time to relearn and help make a powerful impact.
Tell us about a favourite project you're working on. When I worked in Hong Kong I worked on the world’s largest trains station, WKT Terminus and got to work on all of its 400,000 m’s! It took over 10 years to build but the results look like our drawings. At the start I was scared how to remember all the rooms but eventually I was designing all aspects of the space and it became small in my mind! I still remember the details.
Do you have any advice for young women picking a career? Never give up. Alway be yourself. If you have a setback following your dreams don’t worry, shake it off and keep at it. Always follow your passion.
Louise is open to engaging further via: Speaking at a high school, Mentoring a student
If you'd like to enquire further, please email hello@tomorrowswomeninconstruction.com.au with the subject: "Louise O’Brien engagement enquiry" and we'll pass your message on.