January 27, 2011
designer lauri elkins
I was a little surprised - and intrigued - to learn that the idea behind this Sydney design business was formed in New York. Ourlieu's aesthetic seems so Australian - and the products are designed and made here. But NYC is a place where you can dream, so perhaps not such a stretch after all. Ourlieu means "our place" or "our space" in French. Meet the designer Lauri Elkins.
Which five words best describe you? Loyal, driven, sensitive, stubborn, clumsy.
How did you get your career start and what path have you taken since? I started out as a fashion design assistant, since then I've worked as a designer for brands in the surf industry for six years, a year ago I decided to do my own thing after an inspirational trip to New York and my main focus now is Ourlieu although I still freelance in design.
What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? Do one thing at a time the best you can.
What’s your proudest career achievement? Probably the first sale Ourlieu made, for me it was a recognition that someone else believed in what I had started.
What’s been your best decision? Deciding to start my own business, it's really rewarding producing what you love.
Who inspires you? My dad because he's a really hard worker, and anyone who has great ideas and does something with them.
What are you passionate about? Family and friends, places with natural beauty, and making the most of my time.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? I'd like to meet me from the future so I could learn things ahead of time and do some good things with that knowledge.
What dream do you still want to fulfil? I have lots, can't have too many dreams! A little one is my own backyard with a veggie garden and a few chooks.
What are you reading? My emails, The power is within you by Louise Hay... the title says it all; the book gives you tips on how to find the power everyone has within, to change aspects of our lives for the better. And What on Earth Happened? by Christopher Lloyd...it's a really interesting book about how everything got to where it is in the world.
images courtesy of ourlieu