Design Advocates & Community

A Sit Down with Kirsty Ristevski of Curatd

11 July 2025

Kirsty Ristevski is the founder of Curatd, a design studio known for crafting timeless, refined residential spaces. With a background in business, Kirsty’s passion for interiors emerged organically through her own renovation projects—what began as a personal pursuit soon grew into a thriving design practice. Today, she brings a unique blend of creative intuition and practical construction insight to every project, from heritage renovations to contemporary new builds.

We spoke with Kirsty about her journey, her evolving style, and how the smallest details can elevate a space from functional to unforgettable.

Tell us a little about yourself – how did you get into interior design? 

With a background in startups and the business world, my creative side kept calling. I found myself increasingly drawn to interiors through my own renovation projects—what started as a personal passion quickly turned into word-of-mouth demand. That momentum led me to formalise my knowledge with further study, and from there, Curatd was born two years ago. It’s been an exciting, organic journey ever since.

What inspires your designs? Are there any particular influences that shape your approach?

I’m always inspired by the bones of a home—its original architecture and the environment it sits within. I love to let those elements inform the direction, and then layer in functionality and soul for the people who’ll live there. My approach is deeply human—it’s about how a space feels just as much as how it looks.

How would you describe your design style?

I’d say it’s refined yet expressive. I’m not afraid to use colour or bring personality into a space, but I always aim to balance that with timelessness and warmth. I love honouring original architecture and infusing it with contemporary elegance that feels grounded, lived-in, and elevated all at once.

Are there any interior design trends you’re particularly loving right now?

I’m really enjoying the return to warmth—rich timbers, tonal stone, curved forms, and layered textures. There’s a definite move away from stark minimalism, and I love how people are embracing more emotion and depth in their interiors. Personalisation is trending too—spaces that tell a story and feel uniquely yours.

What’s one underrated or overlooked design detail that can make a big impact in a space? 

Scale. Whether it’s the size of your light fittings, artwork, or furniture, getting the proportions right is transformative. Too often, things are selected in isolation, but when you zoom out and see how it all relates spatially, that’s where the magic happens.

Helsinki T Cabinet Pull

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Brunswick Cabinet Pull

CTC320mm

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When it comes to selecting hardware, what’s your advice for clients looking to make the right choice?

Think of hardware like the jewellery of the home—it’s those finishing touches that really elevate the space. Choose pieces that not only feel good to the touch but complement the broader material palette. It’s a small detail with a big impact, so don’t be afraid to invest in quality.

Do you have a favorite hardware finish or style from the Iver range? What draws you to it? 

I’m drawn to Iver’s Signature Brass—it brings a sense of timeless character and depth, and pairs beautifully with natural materials like timber and stone. The subtle patina adds so much warmth without feeling too polished or too rustic—just the perfect in-between, and the fact it does not in fact patina means you know exactly what you’re getting and how it will stay!

Brunswick Cupboard Knob P28xD20mm

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St Ninians is such a beautifully designed project. What was your vision for the space, and how did the design process unfold?

The original home had strong architectural bones thanks to Jon Friedrich Architects, but it felt tired and disconnected from how we live today. The vision was to honour that timeless framework while infusing it with warmth, function, and an elevated sense of ease. We focused on reworking the layout for modern family life and entertaining, layering in luxurious, tactile materials and high-end finishes that feel refined yet deeply liveable. The result is a home that feels grounded in its setting and made for how the owners truly live.

How did you approach selecting Iver hardware for St Ninians?

Hardware selection was very intentional. Iver’s pieces offered that perfect blend of classic and contemporary—elevated yet understated. We used them like design punctuation marks throughout the home, tying in beautifully with the deep tones of the timber joinery and the brass tapware to create a cohesive, considered finish.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone designing or renovating their home, what would it be? 

Don’t rush the planning phase. The more considered your layout and flow, the more successful the end result will be—both visually and functionally. And trust your instinct; if something doesn’t feel quite right, it probably isn’t.

What’s next for you? Are there any exciting projects on the horizon?

Absolutely—Curatd is growing, and we’re working on a few heritage homes and coastal retreats that I’m really excited about. Each project is a new opportunity to push creativity while remaining grounded in timeless, soulful design. Watch this space!