Brisbane-based interior designer Cara McIntyre possesses nearly 20 years of experience with a passion for thoughtful, efficient design. As an Associate, she plays an integral role in expanding Carr’s presence in Queensland.
In this interview, Cara shares her perspective on the studio’s projects, collaborative approach, and the unique opportunities within the Brisbane market.
It’s been almost six months since you joined Carr’s Brisbane studio. How has the experience been so far?
Since joining Carr, I’ve stepped into a key role in the growth of the Brisbane team and the studio’s projects across Queensland. The leadership team has been incredibly welcoming, and I’ve really enjoyed collaborating with both the interior and architecture teams, as well as building strong relationships with our Queensland clients.
Carr’s collaborative approach and commitment to timeless, contemporary, and high-end design bring a distinct aesthetic to the Queensland market. I’m excited to continue shaping our presence in the region and contributing to the studio’s ongoing evolution here.
What’s a typical day like for you?
My day typically starts with remote check-ins with the design team in Melbourne, as we collaborate on projects across Queensland. I also connect regularly with the senior leadership team to discuss strategy and business development, ensuring alignment on both current and future opportunities.
Carr’s Brisbane studio is centrally located in Fortitude Valley, making it easy to meet with clients and suppliers for workshops, design reviews, or quick catch-ups throughout the day.
You help lead the interiors team alongside Carr’s other Associates and Associate Directors. What initially drew you to this discipline, and what are some common misconceptions about the profession?
From a young age, I was drawn to building and design. With a father who’s a civil engineer and an aunt who’s an interior designer, I always knew I wanted to be part of the architecture, design, construction and property industry.
I’ve always enjoyed working collaboratively and sharing my knowledge to help others grow in confidence and refine their design skills. Being part of Carr’s leadership team allows me to continue mentoring and supporting the next generation of designers.
A common misconception about interior designers is that we simply decorate spaces or focus purely on aesthetics. In reality, our role involves a deep understanding of planning, function, volume and materiality. We look at a space holistically to create outcomes that are both purposeful and beautifully resolved.
When approaching a client brief, what are the key considerations that guide your response?
When approaching a client brief, I like to open the discussion with the client about the current market and gain an understanding of the context, demographic, aspirations and experiences that hope to achieve for the end user.
It’s also important to ensure the client’s brief and vision align with Carr’s values and design excellence to ensure quality design is accomplished.
In your view, what sets the Queensland property industry apart from other parts of Australia? How do these differences influence our design approach?
Queensland’s rapid population growth since the pandemic has brought significant challenges to the property market. A shortage of housing, combined with rising construction costs and labour shortages, has led many developers to take on building roles themselves to streamline costs and reduce construction timelines.
These pressures have shifted our design approach. We’re responding with simpler, more efficient solutions that consolidate design quality into well-resolved, modular spaces.
Queensland’s tropical climate and unique land topography also set it apart from other states. This requires a more thoughtful approach to planning, ensuring that both architecture and interiors respond to the environment.
With the competitive market, and large increase of multi-residential developments, we’re noticing strong briefs for more hotel-like indoor amenities, and a greater demand for more luscious landscaping with high-quality outdoor amenities best suited for Queensland’s warmer climate.
Your projects often require close collaboration with Carr’s architecture teams in both Queensland and Victoria. How do you ensure this partnership remains productive and cohesive across all parties involved?
Remote collaboration has become the norm for many professionals, and with advancements in technology, working across states has never been more efficient. At Carr, our teams in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales can collaborate seamlessly to deliver high-quality design outcomes.
Working across borders has been a rewarding experience. By combining the local knowledge of our Queensland team with the depth of experience from our Victorian counterparts, we’re able to integrate perspectives and uphold Carr’s design excellence in every project.
To ensure strong connections, team members regularly travel between studios. This helps maintain the relationships we’ve built both internally and with our clients and partners, while also deepening our understanding of the Queensland market.
Tell us about some projects you’re working on and what’s in the pipeline.
I’m currently leading a variety of multi-residential projects from Brisbane to the Gold Coast, including masterplans in Hamilton and Newstead.
In Hamilton, Silverstone Developments proposed RiverGreen project offers lush landscaping and sweeping views of the Brisbane River, while in Newstead, Panettiere Group’s “Little Italy” introduces a contemporary, Italian-inspired precinct.
In Broadbeach, I’m working with QNY on an elegant residential tower that combines refined architecture and interiors, showcasing quiet Gold Coast luxury and ocean views.
With Brisbane’s market booming ahead of the 2032 Olympics, Carr’s strong local presence and growing pipeline are driving exciting new opportunities and client relationships across the region.
