Catherine Heraghty is owner and Creative Director of The Stables. Based in Sydney, she creates deceptively simplistic spaces that have a sense of light and warmth. Her approach is all about lasting interiors that will become part of her client’s story.

With a beautifully curated aesthetic, The Stables has become hugely popular; a cool 167K followers on Instagram makes it a leading platform for Australian design inspiration. @the_stables_

Interior Styling by Catherine Heraghty. Image: @the_stables_

We’re delighted that Catherine will be speaking as part of the Australian House & Garden International Seminar Series this year at Decor + Design.

She will be unpacking the concept of Australian Style with fellow stylist Heather Nette King on Saturday 20th July. It’s a timely topic. In the last few years we’ve seen a nascent confidence in Australian design…an end to lingering cultural cringe and an unapologetic

With asked Catherine to take five minutes and reveal her style inspirations…

How would you define your own design style/aesthetic?

I tend to create interiors that are light, clean and simple. I prefer timeless interiors, ones that are still going to feel beautiful for many years to come. I tend to rely on subtle textures to create warmth and interest rather bold patterns and I love a muted and soft colour palette for all of my interiors. My favorite element of design would be texture, I try and introduce it in joinery, soft furnishings and wall treatments as I feel like this makes the biggest difference to my interiors. I am a big fan of Australian Made and Designed, so when my client’s budget allows I will always opt for locally made.

Interior Styling by Catherine Heraghty. Image: the_stables_

Who are your own favourite interior designers?

I am a big fan of Carole Whiting, she does the most amazing joinery designs and her colour palettes are always beautiful. I have a joinery obsession, so I tend to follow closely other designers who focus on their joinery designs. I have also been a long time fan of Hecker Guthrie, Mim Design and Tecture – they all produce the most stunning high-end interiors and I look to all of them for their use of materials and finishes. 

What’s the most-read book on your shelf?

If I am honest, it would be my Dulux Atlas. Does that count? I have tonnes of interiors books which I use as props but as a small business owner and busy mum of two I don’t get a lot of time for casual reading.

If pressed, what piece of your furniture or home would define you?

The ‘Nook’ sofa from Jardan

Probably my Jardan Nook Sofa. I purchased this sofa back in 2010 when this style of sofa was first introduced. Now every man and his dog has a sofa like it and every supplier makes their own version of it. I feel like its such an understated and simple design, it is made from quality materials, designed and made in Australia and is still as beautiful now as when I bought it nine years ago! You can’t get much better than that!

If you could live in anyone’s house, whose would it be?

I love the hustle and bustle of Sydney life, but I crave tranquility sometimes! I dream of living in the bush away from the city life and craziness of work. I am fascinated by the property Satellite Island in Tasmania – the remoteness is so appealing, yet it is luxurious and cosy. It’s not anyone’s house, but think about staying there A LOT!

Satellite Island, Tasmania

You’ll be speaking at the 2019 Decor + Design show in July this year, in conversation with Heather Nette King about Australian Style. What else is on the agenda for you this year?

I have so many projects on the go, and five very large ones which have all started construction – all are due for completion by Christmas which is massive and that is going to be my main focus with work. I recently had my second baby so I will be focusing on spending time with him and I am also looking at introducing an exciting product range – we are in the early stages of development now but its joinery related so I am SUPER excited about it!

Don’t miss Catherine Heraghty and Heather Nette King at Decor + Design, speaking at the Australian House & Garden International Seminar Series. One of Australia’s most exciting line-ups of design thinkers, this year’s program will explore the Global Village of design.

Decor + Design is Australia’s No.1 Interiors Trade Event, 18 – 21 July at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Register now for free trade entry to the exhibition and to book your seminar ticket.