'A Tale of Two Kitchens - An Empty Nester's Journey Through Design Dilemmas and Dream Makeovers'

A Career Built on Understanding Home Design

As an architect, interior designer, and kitchen designer with over 35 years of experience, I’ve witnessed first-hand the joys and frustrations of home renovations. My journey began with a simple observation: despite my expertise, many clients struggled to achieve spaces they truly loved.

The Birth of The Austin Home Method®

This realisation sparked a mission to bridge the gap between professional knowledge and homeowner satisfaction. I developed The Austin Home Method®, named after my family, to honour the influence of my architect father and fashion designer mother. This method is the cornerstone of my approach to helping homemakers discover their unique design DNA.

Overcoming Early Challenges

My journey wasn’t without challenges. Early in my career, I spent countless unpaid hours trying to understand my clients’ deep-rooted needs and unconscious desires. While this approach yielded beautiful results, it wasn’t sustainable. I knew there had to be a better way.

Empowering Homemakers Through Technology

Through years of refining my process and embracing new technologies, I’ve created a system that empowers homemakers to unlock their design potential. This book shares that journey through the eyes of two fictional couples, whose experiences are inspired by hundreds of my real clients and insights from homemakers globally. It’s a guide to help you avoid common pitfalls and create a kitchen that truly reflects your personality and enhances your well-being.

Start Discovering Your Unique Design DNA Through Others’ Experiences

Whether you’re considering a DIY project or thinking about working with professionals, the stories and insights in this book will guide you towards understanding your unique home design personality. By following Tammy and Robert’s successful journey and Joy and Christopher’s challenges, you’ll learn how to make informed decisions, communicate effectively, and create spaces that resonate with who you are.

The Path to a Truly Personal Kitchen

Through the contrasting renovation journeys in this book, you’ll take the first crucial steps towards transforming your kitchen. You’ll discover how to align your space with your true self, creating an environment that not only looks beautiful but also nurtures your well-being and brings lasting joy.

Blending Expertise with Hands-On Experience

Don’t think that I’m all theory, though. My five years as a kitchen designer, combined with the fact that between my husband, his father, and myself, we have over 70 new residential homes under our belts, provides a robust foundation of practical expertise. Plus, my husband and I are keen DIYers, so we understand the challenges from multiple perspectives. This book is your starting point for a journey towards a kitchen that truly reflects and supports you.