60 SECONDS WITH WILLIAM DANGAR

Landscape designer William Dangar of Dangar Barin Smith was a judge of this year’s Belle Coco Republic Interior Design Awards. “As always, the entries were really strong. Over the past 30 years, I have had the luxury of working with many established practices and it’s refreshing to see these continually raising the bar. There are also many lesser-known firms with innovative and fresh work.” Favourite career experiences? Gaining an understanding of how important work ethic is in the early days of my working life on several cattle stations in the NT. Your enduring influences? Luigi Rosselli and the late Roberto Burle Marx, a true genius who had incredible skill in mass planting to create spaces of beauty. Where is home for you? I have lived in Bondi for 30 years. Favourite local haunts? Totti’s in Bondi. The Merivale group has been instrumental in revitalising not only where I live, but much of Sydney. Ultimate travel escape? I think Tasmania is the place I am most keen to go; I’ve never been there. What design items are you coveting? My new Stihl chainsaw. What is on your viewing list right now? Mystery Road on the ABC. I’m a big fan of actor Aaron Pedersen. What else is inspiring you? I am most inspired by Australians’ ability to adapt and survive during this madness. I am continually amazed by how wellhumoured everyone has been. The innovation of so many businesses to provide alternate offerings of their traditional goods or service is amazing.