For Belle Hemming, interior design was never a sudden revelation but a lifelong passion nurtured by her love of home magazines as a child. “To be honest, there was no flashbulb moment,” she admits. “But as a child, I remember loving reading my mum’s House & Garden magazines, dreaming of how wonderful it would be to work and decorate one of these homes.” Initially drawn to fashion design after secondary school, she soon realised it wasn’t the right path and found herself gravitating toward interiors instead.

With over 20 years in the industry, Hemming’s approach has evolved significantly, particularly after moving from Sydney to the tranquil landscapes of Glenlyon, Victoria. “My style has become a lot more eclectic and layered throughout the years and with a change in location,” she explains. “I have also become braver with my choices, especially with colour. Living in Victoria, we have access to amazing vintage finds and antiques, which ensures our homes are individual and unique.”

Described as modern and eclectic with a bohemian twist, Hemming’s signature aesthetic is deeply personal. “It is important to go with your instincts with interior design,” she says. “I am inspired by different styles and eras, and as a result, my spaces can be quite eclectic and individual. Each space, home, and client is different, and the space needs to reflect this.”

Her career path has been shaped by pivotal moments, particularly her transition from visual merchandising to freelance interior styling. “I love learning and have always pushed myself when it comes to styling and interior design, looking at ways I can add to my skills and portfolio,” she notes. “It is important to make connections with people in the area that inspire you. My first job as an interior decorator outside of visual merchandising happened by chance. The interior design company used to shop at one of the stores where I worked as a merchandiser, and they approached me to work with them.”

Hemming’s work spans diverse locations, from Sydney and Byron Bay to Melbourne and rural Victoria. Each place brings its own set of inspirations. “I feel very fortunate to travel across Australia for work,” she says. “With a new area often comes a different style, which is reflective of the environment and how we live in that area. I love the challenge of zoning into the new area and lifestyle of the client, and as a result, no job or design is ever the same.”

Sustainability plays a key role in her design philosophy. “I introduce more sustainable and eco-friendly products where I can,” she explains. “This includes choosing custom pieces that will stand the test of time, incorporating vintage furniture to reduce waste, and introducing natural materials that are non-toxic. I also look at more eco-friendly soft furnishings and low-toxic paints and finishes wherever possible.”

Looking ahead, Hemming remains energised by the ever-evolving nature of design. “I am constantly excited about design, as it is always evolving like fashion,” she says. “I feel very fortunate to have a wonderful mix of projects on for the year, including personal homes, commercial projects, and boutique accommodation, including a rammed earth construction.”

With a career built on instinct, curiosity, and an openness to change, Belle Hemming continues to craft spaces that are not only visually compelling but also deeply personal and sustainable.

STORY BY MAHMOOD FAZAL
PHOTOS BY CHRI S TURNER

Belle Hemming
@bellebrightproject
thebellebrightproject.com.au