Having lived and worked in Sydney, Milan, Hamburg, London, and Copenhagen, Sally Knibbs has cultivated a deep interest in how climate, culture, and lifestyle shape design. She founded her namesake studio in 2014, guided by this perspective to create spaces that are authentic, dynamic, and expressive.
In 2024, Sally debuted her first furniture series, launching the SC Collection, which has since grown to include rugs and mirrors. And just last month her project Panorama House won the Residential Decoration Award at the Australian Interior Design Awards.
Here, Sally takes on The Design Dozen.
1. What was your seminal design moment?
In Year 7, I was asked to design a floorplan for a home, and I remember feeling instantly inspired – completely connected to the idea of what “home” could be, and how design could shape a dream space.
2. It’s your ultimate design dinner party – which four guests are you inviting?
Pierre Paulin – Master
Patricia Urquiola – Genius
Ricky Gervais – Hilarious
Anna Wintour – Fascinating
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3. What’s been on your mind lately?
Where do I start? We’re just three months out from moving into a home my husband and I have designed and built together, so I’ve been deep in furniture selection, which is always fun! Add to that raising three little humans and running an interior design and furniture studio. It’s a full (and very fulfilling) season.
4. What’s the most treasured design-y thing you own?
I absolutely love my Pascal floor lamp from Oluce. I have it in white – which is now discontinued – and I’m drawn to how it feels both simple and architectural. It’s a timeless piece that quietly holds presence in the room.
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5. What is the most inspiring space you’ve been to?
Milan during Salone del Mobile is alive – the city is absolutely heaving, and the design culture is in full swing. There’s a certain magic in the air that’s impossible to replicate.
6. What’s a design book you return to often?
AD 100 – A Century of Style
7. What is your favourite quote about design?
“There should be one unlikely or even discordant note in every scheme. You shouldn’t make things too perfect” – Veere Grenney
I love this idea – it’s what makes an interior truly interesting. Perfection can feel flat; it’s those unexpected moments that bring a space to life. I’m always drawn to a surprising detail, an offbeat colour, or something slightly “off” that gives balance and edge. It’s the secret sauce – the thing that keeps you looking.
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8. Who do you look up to in design?
I really admire creative entrepreneurs who push the boundaries of their discipline – those who deeply understand how people live, interact and connect with design, and who build brands that transcend a single category, whether it’s interiors, architecture, product or furniture.
Patricia Urquiola and Ilse Crawford are incredible examples of this. Their work is intelligent, emotive and human-centred, while also being deeply considered and beautifully crafted.
9. What do you consider the best project you’ve done to date?
That’s a tough one. Each project comes with its own brief, context and personality – they’re all special to me in different ways. I honestly couldn’t choose just one. Maybe my best work is still to come? I like the idea that the most exciting project is always the next one.
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10. If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Maybe a Pilates mum? Spending my days being with my children, morning walks with Bernie (our vizsla), Pilates classes and travelling. It’s basically design or retirement for me.
11. What would you change about the state of design?
Less ego, more empathy.
12. What is your dream project?
Reimagining the interior of a private jet. The scale, precision, and opportunity for exceptional design detail would be so rewarding. Now I just need a client with a jet — do you know anyone?