Who we are
Great design is more than aesthetics — it’s knowledge, insight, and inspiration brought to life.
With over two decades of experience & hundreds of completed projects, we’ve become a trusted voice for homeowners, design lovers, & industry professionals. Our mission is simple: to educate with clarity, to inspire with creativity, & to empower you with the confidence to make informed design decisions. Whether you’re building, renovating, or simply passionate about interiors, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
From boutique design studio to comprehensive design 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!
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 is a trusted voice in the Australian design and building industry, bringing over 30 years of experience across property, building + interior design, project management, marketing, and human behaviour. Her career spans client projects, personal developments, and strategic brand partnerships—resulting in a uniquely holistic and people-focused approach to both design and education.
As Founder and Creative Director of The Designory, Melissa has led more than 400 successful residential design and build projects. Her strength lies in blending creative vision with practical insight — making great design feel accessible, intelligent, and deeply considered.
Melissa is also an advocate for accessible, transparent design. She’s passionate about sharing professional insights, simplifying the process for homeowners, and breaking down industry barriers through education, digital resources, and collaborative storytelling. Driven by curiosity and a love of innovation, Melissa is on a mission to empower others to design with confidence and creativity—without the barriers of jargon or exclusivity.
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 a seasoned marketing and brand strategist with over 15 years of experience creating campaigns that connect deeply with people and purpose. With a background in both strategy and fine arts, Cat brings a unique blend of commercial insight, creative storytelling, and heartfelt advocacy for makers and design professionals.
As Co-Owner and Director of Strategy & Partnerships at The Designory, she’s focused on evolving the studio into a platform that bridges design education, industry collaboration, and accessible resources for homeowners. Her work is rooted in connection—between brand and audience, creative and commercial, idea and execution.
Cat’s journey with The Designory began in 2016, sparked by a shared vision with Melissa Bonney and a passion for storytelling that elevates Australian interiors. Alongside her strategic work, Cat is also a professional artist, having exhibited in galleries across the country. This artistic lens gives her a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and fuels her mission to empower others to engage with design in a thoughtful, creative, and approachable way.
mumma of 2 dogs | lover of black clothing | collector of aussie art | coffee addict | sustainable building enthusiast | red wine lover