Explore our latest ‘In Practice’ feature, where Nickolas Gurtler shares insights into their practice, workflow challenges, and how Programa has transformed their interior design studio.

Nickolas Gurtler Design Studio

Based in Melbourne, Nickolas Gurtler Design Studio is a multi-disciplinary firm specializing in residential, multi-residential, and commercial interiors. Their unique approach blends minimalism and maximalism, creating spaces that are both refined and transcendent. Each project meticulously balances everyday rituals with bold challenges to conventional norms, celebrating the alchemy of materials with exquisite restraint. Drawing inspiration from diverse sources and design history, the studio champions emerging Australian art and design.

Founded in 2015, the studio has been featured in Architectural Digest, Vogue Living, The Local Project, Elle Decoration, House and Garden, and Belle. Led by principal designer Nickolas Gurtler, the boutique collective of three designers embraces a client-centric philosophy, ensuring each project is a bespoke reflection of the client’s vision. Their accolades include winning the IDEA award for institutional design in 2023 and receiving over 15 design nominations in the past three years.

Workflow and Methodology

Projects are chosen based on client briefs, design aspirations, and a shared commitment to transformative design. The studio’s refined methodology, honed over nearly a decade, yields exceptional results, drawing inspiration from unexpected sources like the Thierry Mugler perfume bottle and the cinematic masterpiece "Dune." This approach ensures authenticity and timelessness, integrating historical influences into modern contexts.

The studio's systematic approach evolves with each project, exploring color application, material harmonization, and spatial flow. This iterative process ensures a dynamic balance of innovation and enduring elegance, reinforcing their commitment to excellence.

Before Programa

Before Programa, the studio relied on spreadsheets for project management, resulting in an administrative nightmare. Information was often duplicated incorrectly, and numbers didn’t always add up. Managing quotes, product deliveries, and other details required a full-time staff member, making the process labor-intensive and inefficient.

Impact of Programa

Programa has significantly improved the studio’s project management, workflow, and client relationships. By using Programa for scheduling, logistics, and developing their product library, all project data is stored in a cloud-based format, accessible anytime from anywhere. This has streamlined internal administration, reduced RFIs, and allowed easy access to specification sheets and dimensions during client meetings.

The studio has also started using the client dashboard on projects like the upcoming Redfern workplace project. This feature enables clients to approve and comment on items, track delivery dates, and access necessary product information. This real-time interaction has enhanced client engagement and satisfaction.

Financial Tracking and FF&E Management

Programa has been particularly useful for tracking project financials and managing products in various stages of construction or importation. The centralized system ensures clear and correct pricing and markups, allowing clients to track changes in quotes and the production status of specific FF&E items. This has dramatically improved workflow, particularly on their most recent residential project in WA.