Hecker Guthrie, based in Melbourne, is one of Australia’s leading design practices undertaking projects, in the hospitality, residential, retail and commercial sectors, both here and abroad. The directors, Paul Hecker and Hamish Guthrie, who appear on the surface to present a sort of yin and yang in terms of personality, have at their core common design beliefs that support and sustain one another and the broader practice. Meeting at the offices of architect Darryl Jackson, in the mid 1990s, and working on a project together when it was rare for interior designers to be commissioned they clicked, and subsequently set up a partnership now in its 19th year. Over that period they have forged a distinct approach to their multi-disciplinary practice through a series of closely held beliefs that include the expression of authenticity from the initial idea, through a series of spatial decisions and material choices, to the finished space. These shared attributes are balanced by thoughtfulness (Hamish) and enthusiasm (Paul) bringing design solutions and providing an umbrella perspective which takes in several areas of expertise; interior design, building design, industrial design, furniture design and styling. A staff of 17 adds a wealth of interdisciplinary design skills and collaborative know how and is thoroughly supported by a strong administrative team. The practice believes in working with the client to develop an overarching concept which drives a project and becomes a shared journey, with Hecker Guthrie delivering above and beyond in terms of commitment, quality and vision. The aim of the practice is to create spaces that are endearing and beautiful, where the feeling speaks louder than the furnishings and the levels of charm and comfort outweigh the instant gratification of the merely new.