In Conversation with Bonnie and Neil

Bonnie and Neil is now a much-loved name in Australian design. How did the brand first come to life?
Bonnie and Neil began quite organically. Neil and I were both working in creative fields; I was a textile designer, and he was in furniture, and we shared a love for making things by hand. We started out printing small batches of textiles from our home in Melbourne, experimenting with colour, pattern and printmaking. What began as a handful of hand-printed cushions grew into a full collection, and from there, a brand built around the idea that artful design can bring joy into everyday life.

Can you share a bit about your creative process — from concept and inspiration to the final product?
It always starts with painting. Each collection begins as a series of original artworks, whether florals, motifs, or abstract forms, that I create in our studio. From there, we translate those paintings into textiles. Colour is a huge part of the process; I often spend weeks refining tones until they feel perfectly balanced. Once the designs are finalised, we work closely with our makers to bring them to life across various mediums, from cushions and table linens to ceramics, bedding, and bathmats.

What are some of your favourite ways to style your pieces, especially when layering patterns and colours?
For me, it’s about creating a story through texture and tone. I like to start with one hero piece, perhaps a floral cushion or a patterned tablecloth, and build from there using complementary colours and textures. Mixing bold motifs with finer details creates balance and depth. Most importantly, I think styling should feel playful and intuitive, not overly considered. I always encourage people to trust their instincts and create spaces that make them feel happy.

If someone is new to Bonnie and Neil, what’s a great entry piece to start with?
A cushion is always a lovely place to begin. It’s such an easy way to introduce colour and pattern into your home and get a sense of our aesthetic. We design every piece to mix and match, so you can slowly build a collection that feels personal and effortless.

What’s next for Bonnie and Neil? Are there new directions or collaborations on the horizon? We’re entering such an exciting phase of growth. We’ll be expanding our bedding range, something I’ve wanted to explore more deeply for years, and it’s been incredible to see how our linens, prints and palettes translate into that space. We’re also working on a very special drop of textiles for early next year, a collection that feels personal, playful and full of meaning. 2026 is shaping up to be our biggest year yet, with new categories, collaborations and creative projects in the works. I can’t wait to share it all!

LEARN MORE https://bonnieandneil.com.au/