We are delighted that Kate Nixon will be exhibiting her collections at DESIGNER DISTRICT at Decor + Design, 15 – 17 July 2026 at Melbourne Exhibition Centre.
DESIGNER DISTRICT is a gorgeous new feature at Australia’s favourite interior design trade show, which will celebrate its 22nd edition in 2026. It will be a beautifully curated area featuring some of Australia’s most in-demand designers – Kate will be joined by Maison Balzac, Bonnie and Neil, Shaynna Blaze, Darren Palmer and Diane Bergeron.
Register now to visit – entry to the exhibition is free but limited to trade visitors. Kate will also be speaking in conversation with Elise Pioch Balzac at the International Seminar Series on Day Two of the show, Thursday 16 July.
We spoke to Kate about the inspirations behind her beautiful design practice – plus a brand new collab visitors can expect to see at her stand!
Arcadia Project Kate Nixon Studio. Photographer: Maree Homer
Your Design Studio practice creates interiors that have a beautiful sense of restraint and calm, while still feeling deeply layered and inviting. How do you approach achieving that balance within a space?
We approach the spatial planning of an interior in conjunction with a cohesive material palette and design details which respond to the site and reflect the client’s brief and how they want to live within the spaces. Considered layers of natural tones and textures provide warmth with an inherent sense of calm.
Can you tell us about a recent project that you’ve loved working on?
Over the past four years we have had the privilege of working on a magnificent new build on the east coast of Tasmania with Preston Lane architects and Paul Bangay Garden Design for cherished clients and friends. The home is a study in scale and sophistication with so many favourite features and pieces, completing early next year.
Materiality plays such an important role in your work. Are there particular finishes, textures or natural materials you find yourself especially drawn to right now?
We love natural materials for their inherent warmth and character. Quartzite is a favourite for durability and living metal finishes for their patina. We love a mix of linen, leather, stone, timber, metal and rattan for a cosy, collected feel.
You have your own line as well as collaborations with notable Australian brands. How would you describe the Kate Nixon aesthetic?
Classic and comfortable, polished and practical, relaxed and inviting – equally at ease with effortless entertaining and everyday family life. We strive to create everyday joy in the pieces and places we make.
Kate Nixon with BOYD Blue. Photographer: Maree Homer
Where do you draw inspiration from outside the world of interiors?
Travel, nature, food and fashion – the colour combinations of an autumn leaf, the sculptural form of a piece of jewelry, the patination of a rock pool. History is the greatest teacher and I love discovering details from past eras rich in creative problem solving and considered craftsmanship.
You’ll be part of Designer District at Decor + Design this year. What can visitors expect to see at your stand?
We are very proud to be showcasing our brand and product partners with furniture, rugs, printed and performance fabrics, wallpaper and decorative accessories alongside our just launched first book Everyday Joy. We will also have an exclusive preview of our brand new KATE NIXON X PERINI stone tile collection, launching in July.
Follow Kate Nixon on Instagram: @katenixon_official
Register now to visit – entry to the exhibition is free but limited to trade visitors. Kate will also be speaking in conversation with Elise Pioch Balzac at the International Seminar Series on Day Two of the show, Thursday 16 July. A 3-day ALL ACCESS PASS to the International Seminar Series & Green Design Seminar Series is $260 + GST, covering 24 sessions. A Day Pass is $130 + GST.