Paul Barbera with Adam Goodrum for Where They Create

What is something that i would be surprised to find in your space ?
My bulldog George. He is pretty low energy but sounds like a chainsaw when sleeping, which is 90% of the time, not great when Zooming.

Describe your ideal workspace in three words.
Sunny, coffee-on-tap, colourful.

Whats the best advice you’ve been given and from whom?
I’m not sure this is advice, but Alberto Alsessi revealed enthusiastically that I was a one-person-studio and that this was also a Richard Sapper’s business model.

Where did you find the courage to follow your own path?
Still looking for courage but have built some momentum that propels me forward.

What is the most productive practical tip you could impart on to a fellow creative?
Be curious but don’t be preoccupied by other people’s work.

Does the space you work in have an interesting story?
The space occupies the ground level of a corner terrace with a 150-year history and multifarious uses. It was an upholstery shop, a corner store and when we bought it, it had a number of tiny rooms that looked like they were used for the oldest profession.

How would you describe your neighbourhood?
Gritty, lively, open-minded.

Do you work and live in the same space, if so how does that affect your work ?
Until 3 years ago I lived above the studio. This was convenient and there was some separation between work and home because the two have separate entrances, however we have recently moved to Maroubra, the southernmost of Sydney’s Eastern beaches. This has inspired a surge in productivity, even though I spend more time in the water.

What are you most proud of in the space?
I don’t know if I’m proud, because it could be a kind way of saying it’s messy, but people say my studio looks like it’s full of ideas.

Favourite song/band while working ?
Bert Jansch, at the moment.