COLLETTE DINNIGAN AO

Describe yourself in 5 words? 

Compassionate, humble, creative, driven and loyal  

How does design imbue your life day-to-day? 

I like serene white and light filled spaces. Selecting furniture and art is important too, as it reflects my character. This expression allows to think about creating new designs.  

I Am Woman was designed to inspire the future of women in business, so with that in mind, if you could you give one piece of advice to young females, what would it be? 

See adversity as a challenge. Picture your goal and then push yourself to the limit. 

If you ran the world for a day .. what three things would you implement/change? 

I run my own world everyday! But to be a leader on the global scale requires real sacrifice and resilience. So in that case I would not try to change the world, I would focus on helping others. I would focus on the environment, children, animals, and under privileged.

How do you spend time outside of work? 

Cooking with friends and family, and gardening especially the vegetable garden

What city fits your style and aesthetic most? 

Rome, with it's ancient history, architecture and abundance of fresh food from the markets

What trends are you loving at the moment whether it be fashion, interiors, beauty or food. 

Sustainability ; human civilisation understanding how lucky we are to be alive on  this planet. Fresh produce you have grown in your garden nourishes your soul as well as your body.

In this rapidly changing world, how would you improve sustainability globally? 

Try to eradicate all unnecessary plastic manufacturing. Don't take what you throw in the bin for granted. Educate our children 

If you woke up tomorrow as Prime Minister of Australia, what are the top three things you would address? 

Global warming, higher education, humanitarian causes.

If you didn't end up in your career what other job would you have done and why?

Veterinarian surgeon, for the welfare of animals. Marine biologist, as I have always had a love for the ocean and like the science behind what lives in the sea. 

Do you have any upcoming projects or events you want to share with us? 

I have just completed three renovation projects in Rome, Puglia, and Bowral NSW. 

We would love to know which two products from KFive+Kinnarps are your favorite?

Nikari Arkipelago outdoor chair and Nikari Linea Sofa   

What woman in your life would you like to thank, and why? 

There are three. My daughter Estella is a young woman and I am learning so much from her. My mum Sheila Porter-Dinnigan for her kindness and teaching us to follow our hearts. Nikki Andrews my Australian PR Agent for many years during the running of my fashion business. Nikki's compassionate and caring nature, and always my sounding board.