Interior architect and decorator Rylie Fitzgerald has designed spaces around Australia and the world. Here, she chats about some things she’s been loving lately.
What does your idea of the perfect day look like?
Slow mornings with my son, making eggs and French press coffee. A walk through the Botanic Garden, then a few focused hours in the studio collaging materials. Dinner out locally with low lighting, nourishing food, close friends – and home early. Calm, not crammed.
What is a wonderful moment of kindness you have experienced?
Moving cities as a solo parent with a toddler and having people show up in quiet, practical ways – a client shifting a meeting, a neighbour offering help, a friend turning up without needing to be asked. The kind of kindness that restores your nervous system.
What is your favourite photograph?
A candid shot taken after installing a property in Sicily – me taking in the full moon over the ocean after a tiring, happy day. Looking back, it’s the memory the photo holds that has the most impact.
If you could own any piece of art, what would it be?
A large-scale work by Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori. Vibrant, layered Indigenous art with depth — something that sits so slightly at odds with the interior, in the best surprise. I already have work by friends on my walls — Sair Bean, Luke Day, Billie Justice Thomson – and recently would have happily taken Pia Gynell-Jorgensen’s work home from Staff Only gallery, where I first reconnected with Adelaide’s creative scene.
Here’s $500. You have to spend it in the next hour – what are you buying?
A beautiful object for the home — soft bed linen or a sculptural lamp. I like purchases that live with you.
A bar/café/restaurant in SA you’d recommend?
Longplay — I had an unexpected evening to myself recently and sat at the bar: warm, effortless, memorable food and wine that included local favourites. I also love breakfast at Troppo after yoga, or sparkling wine and oysters at Si Sea in the Central Market — it makes food prep for an event feel like a celebration, not a chore.
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What was the last film/TV show you watched?
This Christmas season I’ve seen The Grinch far too many times with my son Fergus! I don’t usually watch much television.
Favourite way to unwind?
A jog in nature, driving through the Adelaide Hills and ending up at a small wine cellar, and filling my kitchen with food from the farmers market.
Last book you read?
Heart the Lover. A beautiful story I read on holidays recently — made me think about time, how life pivots, and the quiet weight of choices. How connection shapes our lives.
Last song you listened to?
Something In Between by Olivia Dean — I’m enjoying the soulful tone of this album at the moment.
