Designer insights with Tara Mihalech

Tara Mihalech is founder of Surburble, the self-confessed rambling of her craft, cooking and DIY projects. A “suburban burble” - the blog is her crazy little haunt, where she gets to write, laugh, share what she loves and get her hands dirty. Regular readers will also be familiar with her backup; Mr Surburble and two daughters: Lila and Lucy. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Tara Mihalech.

Designer Insights with Tara Mihalech

- Transcript -

1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?

Homey, comfortable, and beautiful. I love a space that feels welcoming as soon as you walk through the door. This doesn’t mean that things have to be well-worn or neutral, though – just full of carefully chosen pieces of furniture and décor that showcase the homeowner’s style.

2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?

I immediately think of colour. I am lucky in that because I am a blogger, I get to create for myself most of the time. Colour is huge for me – can I paint it? Will it work in my space? I oftentimes “interview” a piece before I take it home or use it.

3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?

This is a tough question. There are many creative and talented people whom I am lucky enough to call friends. Their accomplishments and natural style are overwhelming. If I look at my life as a whole, I owe a lot to my mother for being a creative inspiration. She takes on any project with gusto; it was – and still is – a lifestyle to aspire to.

4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?

I honestly think that I’m always looking for a new idea or project to strike me. Whether I’m in a shop, or at a friend’s house, or walking down the aisles of an antique sale, I’m constantly scanning for something to reach out to me. Thankfully, this happens often.

5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?

The advice that I can offer to someone who is looking to start his/her own blog is to write about what you love. Be honest and bold, and have fun with it! But I must also say that it is immensely helpful to find a community, either online or face-to-face. Find a group of people who are working in a similar field, or who are all writing about a similar topic, and support and learn from them. It’s amazing what the power of a creative community can bring.