In this episode of The Creative Trust Podcast, host Amanda Henderson sits down with architect Clare Cousins and designer Grazia Materia - longtime collaborators and friends whose work challenges the idea that design is a luxury. Together, they explore how trust, friendship and shared values form the backbone of their creative process, and why good design should be thoughtful, utilitarian and accessible to everyone - not just those with the budget for bespoke architecture or high-end furniture.

This conversation moves between the practical and the philosophical: designing when the end user is unknown, advocating for better everyday spaces in Australian suburbs, and the balance between function, longevity and quiet moments of delight. Clare and Grazia remind us that design is about solving problems, improving how we live, and creating things we’d want to use ourselves.

A smart, generous reminder: work with people you like, build with the community around you, and remember - your next great collaboration might already be sitting across the table.