Creative Legacies in Melbourne’s Interiors

Join Kristine Slawinski, author of Melbourne Heritage Interiors, for a presentation that delves into the lasting impact of artists, artisans and craftspeople on Melbourne/Naarm’s unique design identity. Through a detailed look at their contributions to the city’s most significant interior spaces, this talk highlights the often-overlooked stories of creativity and artistry within the city’s heritage buildings.

Illustrating examples of Melbourne’s historic interiors — spaces that are frequently overshadowed by their iconic façades — the event will examine both existing and lost interiors, revealing how these environments have contributed to the city’s creative legacy. The presentation will explore Melbourne’s strong tradition of collaboration across creative fields, from fine art and sculpture to glassmaking, mosaic, terrazzo, lighting and furniture design within interiors. The talk will include historic and contemporary images of renowned interiors such as the Block Arcade, State Library and Arts Centre, as well as lesser-known examples tucked away in the city’s buildings. Kristine will also shine a light on the crossover between disciplines, where creatives have contributed to theatre scenery, murals and interior decoration.

Held at the Victorian Artists Society building, this event welcomes those interested in interior design, architecture, history and art. It will illuminate the important design legacy embedded within Melbourne’s buildings, and the ability of these interiors to foster a deeper emotional and cultural connection to the city’s social history and built heritage.

The session will conclude with a Q&A, encouraging attendees to share their curiosity and perspectives. Participants will leave with a new understanding of the creative legacy of Melbourne’s early creatives, inspired to discover the city’s important publicly accessible interiors and appreciate the emotional resonance these spaces hold.