Recently returning from Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 three-day retreat in Bali, Senior Interior Designer Daniella Bassin shares her highlights, the valuable lessons she learnt, and how the experience will shape her career moving forward.
Congratulations again on your selection for the Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 for 2025. As part of the program, you and 29 other mentees attended a high-performance leadership and creative retreat at Bali’s Potato Head. How were you feeling heading into the retreat, and how do you feel now, post-event?
I was in my element on the 30UNDER30 retreat! I have always seen networking as an exciting opportunity, as I have a genuine interest in people and their stories. The retreat offered an incredible opportunity to engage with industry leaders and build meaningful connections with the cohort, sponsors and mentors. I felt a strong sense of belonging and a renewed motivation to drive my career forward through collaboration in design.
Coming out of the retreat, I am so motivated to build on everything I learned and to use that to mentor the next generation of our industry, because I know the power of having a safe space to ask questions that can lead to internal confidence. I also feel more open to grasping new design opportunities and committed to contributing to design excellence.
You were surrounded by some of the design industry’s leading figures. Can you reflect on some of the insights they shared during the retreat? What stood out to you in particular?
My main takeaway was that to be a successful designer in any business, there needs to be a balance between doing what we do best – design – and cultivating a mindset that allows us to stay profitable and continue doing what we love.
Overall, I was reminded to trust the process. I have a strong drive to consistently progress, learn and grow, so it was comforting to hear the mentor’s share that there are times to sprint and times to jog, and that finding the balance is what enables a strong, long career in aspirational roles.
Another key takeaway was the importance of being clear and direct with myself. Being able to articulate exactly what my goals are makes them much more attainable.
The retreat spanned three days and covered a range of workshops and experiences.
Can you walk us through what each day involved? What were the key sessions or moments that resonated most with you?
I’ve always loved learning, so I relished in the workshop sessions that challenged me to grow. From day one, the energy was vibrant and positive, fostering genuine connections and setting the stage for open, authentic conversations.
Day 1
We began with a sustainability tour of Potato Head, where I learned about reducing environmental impact through sorting, reusing, and repurposing waste. We then took part in some fun icebreaker activities. The day closed with a sunset beach dinner, the perfect setting for deeper conversations.
Day 2
A roundtable workshop kicked off the day, giving us space to connect with mentors, ask questions, and explore sponsor products. I was struck by how open and thoughtful the mentors were. Andrea Nixon’s session on brand and product challenged us to consider our identity – who we are and what we stand for. We ended with a dinner at Kaum, full of meaningful dialogue, great food, and good company.
Day 3
Tegan Wallis from Griffith Consulting led a standout session on ‘Success Without Stress’, teaching us to manage energy, set goals, and stay accountable for long-term growth. The day ended with an insightful mentor/judge panel, offering valuable perspectives on business, design, and the future of our industry.
The retreat focused on leadership, creativity, and personal development. How do you plan to implement these teachings in your design practice moving forward?
I love this question because the beauty of growth lies in implementing what we’ve learned. One key principle I’m taking with me is to stay curious. Maintaining curiosity with a growth mindset helps me remain open, adaptable and committed to lifelong learning in an ever-evolving world.
On a more personal note, one of my main goals is to get more sleep! I know that with better rest, I’ll have the energy that will enhance all aspects of my life. Now that I’ve said it out loud, I guess you can all hold me accountable!
You spent time with a cohort of like-minded, innovative young designers from across the country. What was it like to share this experience with peers who are equally passionate about the future of design?
There’s real power in collective energy. We thrive when surrounded by those who truly understand and support us; it drives collaboration, creativity, and a shared sense of purpose. Being among such intelligent, driven peers reignited my motivation to create meaningful, holistic spaces together.
I’m proud to stand alongside respected voices in our field, pushing for the recognition interior design deserves. It’s about challenging outdated perceptions and honouring the education, expertise, and responsibility our profession demands. I’m grateful for the progress already being made and excited to be part of the next wave driving it forward.
For anyone considering applying to future 30UNDER30 programs:
What advice would you offer, based on your own journey and experience?
Go for it! These kinds of amazing opportunities only come when you’re willing to put yourself out there. You never know what might unfold when you take that first step.
Photography by Amazing Bali.
