Claire Delmar is an acclaimed Sydney-based interior stylist, specializing in both commercial and residential projects. Known for her timeless, soulful designs, she collaborates with top architects, designers and brands. Founder of Studio CD in 2007, her work is grounded in design principles such as colour theory, spatial planning, furniture arrangement and decor selection.
Here, Claire sits down with InteriorsAu and ponders a dozen questions about design.
1. What was your seminal design moment?
I would have to say my first love was architecture especially modernism and it really influenced my aesthetic and drove my passion for design. Its focus on simplicity, clean lines and the seamless integration of form and function has had such a profound impact on design. It emphasizes the idea that beauty can be found in utility and that a space or object should not only look good but also serve a purpose effectively – this really inspires me. It continues to influence my work through balanced proportions and functional forms with an emphasis on materiality.
2. It’s your ultimate design dinner party – which four guests are you inviting?
Joseph Dirand, Charlotte Perriand, Iris Apfel and my partner Alex. It would be fascinating to hear how each of them balances aesthetics with the human element in their work, in a relaxed environment over good food and wine.
3. What’s been on your mind lately?
How fast time is going.
4. What’s the most treasured design-y thing you own?
A chair that my partner handwove for me on our first anniversary.
5. What is the most inspiring space you’ve been to?
The Taj Mahal was truly mind blowing – the way the light hit the white marble along with the detailed craftsmanship.
6. What’s a design book you return to often?
Interior by Joseph Dirand. For his extraordinary precision and elegant minimalism.
7. What is your favourite quote about design?
“Less is more” – Mies van der Rohe
8. Who do you look up to in design?
The artisans always really stand out to me, however the design field in general is filled with so many talented individuals, each bringing their own unique perspective and skills. I also admire a diverse range of designers for their individuality and flare.
9. What do you consider the best project you’ve done to date?
Choosing the “best” project is tricky because every project brings unique challenges and rewards, but I’d say the most fulfilling ones are those that fully embody a client’s vision while adding layers of storytelling and functional beauty. Funnily enough it’s always the next project I aim to be the best.
10. If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
If I weren’t a designer, I think I’d gravitate toward something equally creative and expressive — perhaps in food as it has always been a passion. Food also allows deep exploration of storytelling and capturing emotions, which aligns closely with the creative narrative I try to bring to design. Food is that immersive aspect of design: setting a mood, creating tension and flow, and ultimately crafting an experience that resonates. There’s also something very appealing about the ability to create entire worlds in these mediums, playing with atmosphere, details and character — similar to designing a space. It would be a different canvas, but the heart of it would be the same: connecting with people and sparking some kind of lasting feeling or inspiration.
11. What would you change about the state of design?
Prioritizing timelessness over trends. Design has become highly trend-driven, leading to shorter life cycles and, ultimately, more waste. If designers and clients embraced the concept of “forever furniture” and spaces that evolve with people rather than go out of style, we could shift from disposable to enduring design. I’d also encourage a stronger emphasis on the emotional impact of design — the idea that a space or object should feel personal, comforting or inspiring, not just aesthetically pleasing.
12. What is your dream project?
Complete creative freedom to build something deeply meaningful and immersive. I’m currently working on a project in which every room has its own story but still flows cohesively as part of a larger narrative, allowing for unique textures, customised furniture and refined details that feel both intimate and expansive. I’m very lucky.
