About us.
From a boutique studio to a comprehensive educational platform—discover how we're making designer homes accessible to all.
We are passionate about beautiful homes and great design, but more than that we want to help to demystify the world of design and pull back the curtain on our much loved design studio to educate and inspire you. We firmly believe that good design and the smooth execution of projects should be accessible to everyone no matter the size, budget, location or timing of your project - and no matter where you’re at on your design journey. We have something to help you wherever you’re at and at every step of the way plus we are here to teach you everything we know to empower YOU to create a home you love!
We believe:
Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that good design starts from the inside out. At every level, we honour the deep human connection to the built environment—recognising that design is more than just aesthetics; it's the physical, spatial, & cultural expression of how we live, work, & gather. It’s the result of thoughtful effort, where materials, energy, & intention come together to shape spaces that support everyday life with meaning & purpose.
Meet us:
Melissa Bonney
FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Diploma of Commercial Arts (Interior Design) n.c. 2011 | Bachelor of Science (Psychology) n.c 2007 | Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) 1999 | Class 1 Licenced Real Estate Agent (Buyers Agency) NSW REA 20530398 | QLD REA 4834680
Melissa Bonney has been a trusted authority in the design and building industry for the last 15 years. She brings to every interaction over 30 years of experience in property, building design and interiors, project management, b2b and b2c marketing, and the study of human behaviour. The result is a multi-faceted and holistic approach to both her design work and educational offerings.
With over 400 design projects completed under her leadership—both for clients and through her own personal developments—Melissa has earned a reputation for bringing innovative vision, effortless style, and practical expertise to every space she touches.
Full of smart ideas and clever solutions, she has a sharp eye for design and a penchant for detail. Her passion for a balance between function and aesthetic, her skills in client advocacy and customer service, and her continual search for the beautiful and unusual, creates an unparalleled experience for both clients, brands and students alike.
Melissa is passionate about pulling back the curtain on the design industry. She’s on a mission to make professional insights accessible, removing the barriers often created by exclusivity or hefty design fees. She aims to showcase the very best of what the industry has to offer—while encouraging others to dive in and design boldly.
mumma of 3 | property obsessed | collector of old things | lover of tea | golden retriever enthusiast | yoga teacher in training
Cat Gerke
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGY & PARTNERSHIPS
Master of Business (Marketing) 2016 / Bachelor of Art Education 2015
Cat Gerke is is a seasoned marketing and brand strategist with a deep love for beautiful design, compelling storytelling, and purpose-driven work. With over a 15 years of experience creating campaigns that truly connect, Cat brings both heart and strategic insight to every project she touches.
Returning to The Designory in 2025 as the co-Owner and Director of Strategy & Partnerships, she is passionate about evolving the studio into a leading platform for client education—bridging the gap between design knowledge, industry brands and everyday people.
Her journey with The Designory began in 2016, when the first sparks of their shared vision were ignited with she and Mel began dreaming ideas over an afternoon coffee and a call to Caesarstone. Since then, Cat has been instrumental in shaping the studio’s direction, helping to tell the stories behind some of Australia’s most inspiring interiors.
mumma of 2 dogs | lover of black clothing | collector of aussie art | coffee addict | shed house enthusiast | country gal at heart
The Journey:
2012 -2015
We opened our first combined design studio and retail store, The Design Hunter, in Sydney’s coastal east. As demand and our team grew, we quickly moved into a larger space just doors away to expand both our studio and curated retail offering.
2016 - 2017
Cat joined the team, and together we rebranded as The Designory, marking a new chapter. We shared our first full in-house project, AYANA HOUSE, and began collaborating with some of our favourite brands along the way.
2018-2019
Mel and Cat travelled frequently between Sydney and Byron while working on The Barefoot Bay Cottage. In 2019, Cat made the move north, and soon after, The Barefoot Bay Villa came to life—marking the start of our next design chapter in Byron Bay.
2020 - 2022
Amid COVID challenges, we completed Walker Farm, a contemporary rural home. As the industry shifted, Cat pursued her art career and Mel brought The Vela Properties to life—three timeless Byron Bay homes launched between 2022 and 2023.
2023 - 2024
As design shifted, The Designory evolved—strengthening partnerships, welcoming new clients, and refining our residential and commercial projects. We also grew our online presence, building an engaged community through social media and sharing expert insights along the way.
2025 - the future
Cat returns as a co-Owner and Director, reuniting The Designory’s original creative team. Together, they launched a new mission to share, teach, and mentor—offering expert insights to help others design with confidence.
The Press
The Projects
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LAVANA House
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SIKATA House
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SAMUDRA House
Contact us
We'd love to hear from you - please use the form to send us your message.
FAQs
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Yes we offer both. Follow the link here to Trade Discount application and here to the Student Discount application.
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Yes, you can purchase a gift voucher and let them choose which digital products they’d like! They’ll be sent a e-voucher with instructions for how to redeem it!
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You’ll find all the instructions for how to redeem your gift in the email we sent you. Didn’t receive it or still unsure? Just shoot us an email at info@thedesignory.com.au.
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Home renovators, Home builders, Designers or decorators or Design enthusiasts.
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The Decorating Digital Productsvinclude all décor throughout the specific space that you have purchased. You’ll find the product details, images, measurements, links and more. The Design Detail Digital Products cover everything from door hardware, tiles and pavers, skylights, lighting and more. It basically has all the details of everything you need to build your home from the ground up. You’ll find the product details, images, measurements, links and more. Concepts and floorplans are included in both the Decorating and Design Digital Products, as well as images and details of our preferred brand partners.
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Definitely! You have the option to buy the Digital Products of the WHOLE house, in specific Bundles or you can buy each plan separately! If there’s something specific you need and aren’t sure just send us and email at info@thedesignory.com.au.
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Unfortunately items do go our of stock or lines are discontinued and this is of course out of our control. However, in the case that we are aware a specific item is not available to purchase, we have endeavoured to include an alternative item that will give a similar look and serve the same purpose.