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Biography & Career Overview
Bree Leech (now Bree Banfield) is one of Australia's most respected figures in the world of design and interiors. Based in Melbourne, she has built an extraordinary career spanning over 25 years as an interior designer, stylist, trend forecaster, and creative director. Bree is widely recognised for her ability to transform spaces through the power of colour, texture, and form, making her a sought-after creative across residential, commercial, and editorial projects.
Her journey began with a love for interiors and colour storytelling, which soon evolved into working with some of the biggest names in the design industry, including Dulux, Feast Watson, West Elm, and Godfrey Hirst. Over time, she has become synonymous with high-quality creative direction, setting trends that shape how Australians use colour and style in their homes and workplaces.
Design Philosophy & Approach
At the core of Bree’s work is her belief that interiors should not just look good but feel good. Her philosophy is about creating emotive spaces that enhance people’s everyday lives. Every project she takes on is guided by the idea that a home or workplace should spark joy, offer comfort, and reflect the personality of its occupants.
She is known for her fearless use of colour, often pairing bold tones with neutral backdrops to achieve harmony and balance. Her work introduces elements of surprise, whether it be a vibrant accent wall, a textured surface, or an unexpected piece of furniture. By pushing boundaries while staying attuned to her client's tastes, Bree achieves designs that are both timeless and deeply personal.
Services & Expertise
Through her creative studio, Bree has developed a wide portfolio of services that reflect her versatility and expertise:
Interior Design & Decoration
Bree brings a unique aesthetic to both residential and commercial projects. Her ability to blend modern design with character and warmth ensures that each project is distinctive. From concept development to final styling, her projects combine precision with creativity.
Photographic & Interior Styling:
As a stylist, Bree’s work has been featured in leading design magazines, advertisements, and editorial spreads. She is highly regarded for her attention to detail and her ability to create striking visual compositions that resonate emotionally with audiences.
Colour & Trend Forecasting
Bree has an exceptional eye for predicting what’s next in design. She works with leading brands to develop colour palettes, trend forecasts, and styling guides that influence how companies present themselves to the market.
Creative Direction & Content Production
Her creative campaigns are known for their cohesion and impact. She collaborates with brands to create marketing materials, style campaigns, and oversee shoots that reflect strong visual identities.
Notable Projects & Collaborations
One of Bree's most recognised contributions to the design industry has been her ongoing work with the Dulux Colour Forecast. As a lead creative force, she oversees everything from trend research and palette development to photo shoot direction and final presentation. Her ability to translate global design movements into accessible colour stories has made the Dulux Forecast an influential guide for designers, homeowners, and businesses across Australia.
Her portfolio also includes collaborations with prestigious brands such as West Elm, Feast Watson, and Godfrey Hirst. These partnerships showcase her versatility, from furniture styling and surface finishes to colour consultation and campaign direction.
Among her signature projects are:
- Poolside House: Inspired by Palm Springs, this Melbourne home uses rich jewel tones, custom furniture, and graphic elements to create an atmosphere of glamour and relaxation.
- Rental Makeover: Bree demonstrated her creativity by transforming a rental property into a stylish, welcoming space through affordable yet impactful updates such as painted furniture, wall treatments, and vibrant décor choices.
- Corporate Styling Campaigns: Bree's styling and direction have also shaped the image of many commercial brands, helping them connect more authentically with their customers.
Creative Insight
Bree's creativity is fuelled by inspiration from art, architecture, fashion, and everyday life. She draws from the bold visual culture of the 1980s, as well as contemporary design movements that emphasise playfulness and authenticity. Her ability to distil these influences into accessible design has made her an influential voice in the industry.
She is passionate about creating experiences that stir emotion—whether it is the comfort of a well-designed room, the delight of an unexpected detail, or the inspiration of a bold colour choice. For Bree, design is more than aesthetics: it is about creating moments that enrich the way people live and work.
Final Note
This profile is prepared as an introduction to Bree Leech for the Painters Link community. It highlights her professional journey, philosophy, and key projects. The intention is to showcase her as one of the most influential voices in Australia's design industry, celebrating her achievements and contributions.
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