A Dialogue with Hannah Brown
Why Better Documentation = Better Projects
Episode 123
In this episode of Design Dialogues, I’m joined by Hannah Brown, the founder of Hey! Design, a Central Coast-based documentation expert supporting interior designers, cabinet makers, and builders with the technical side of interior design.
Hannah shares her fascinating journey from working in child protection in the UK to starting her own design documentation business here in Australia. We dive deep into the world of outsourcing, the most common (and costly) mistakes designers make, and how clear systems and communication can make or break your projects.
If you're a designer who’s ever struggled with documentation, felt overwhelmed by technical drawings, or wanted to ensure your designs actually work once they're built — this conversation is for you.
Hope you enjoy the episode
Beth xx
Why Good Documentation Is the Quiet Hero of Great Design
As an interior designer, you’re balancing creativity, client relationships, and constant decisions. But in the rush to meet deadlines and move projects forward, documentation can become a bottleneck — or worse, a liability.
In this episode of Design Dialogues, I chat with Hannah Brown, a documentation expert who supports interior designers by translating their creative intent into clear, detailed drawings that guide builders and joiners with confidence. She’s warm, humble, and deeply experienced — and she has a real gift for explaining why documentation isn’t just a “nice-to-have,” it’s a non-negotiable foundation for beautiful, functional spaces.
Designing Systems That Support Your Studio (Not Stifle It)
Hannah’s background in social work gives her a unique lens on empathy, communication, and boundaries — and she brings those same skills into her documentation practice. Her goal? To be the calm in your studio chaos, helping you hand over projects with confidence, not crossed fingers.
We discuss:
The difference between designing and documenting (and why both matter)
Why outsourcing documentation is a strength, not a weakness
What often gets missed in documentation packages — and how to avoid costly oversights
How clear drawings improve collaboration with trades and reduce mistakes on site
Tips for building smooth processes between your creative ideas and technical delivery
When it’s time to bring in help — and how to brief your documentation partner well
“Good documentation isn’t just about accuracy — it’s about building trust.” – Hannah Brown
In an industry that prizes aesthetics, Hannah reminds us that clarity, systems, and well-documented details are what make those aesthetics actually come to life — on time, within budget, and without headaches.
If you're feeling stretched trying to be both the creative lead and the technical drafter, this episode is your reminder that support exists — and that letting go of some of the backend can actually bring more freedom, not less control.
Why This Matters for Studio Owners
When documentation becomes a pressure point, the cost isn’t just in hours or mistakes — it’s in your creative energy. Your clients hire you for your vision, not your ability to wrangle 30-page drawing sets late at night. This episode is a gentle but powerful reminder that letting go of the tasks you can outsource creates more room for the work only you can do.
This Episode Is Perfect For
Interior designers juggling every part of the business solo
Designers who want to outsource but don’t know where to start
Studio owners looking to refine their documentation process
Anyone who wants to feel calmer, clearer, and more in control of their project delivery
Connect with Guest
Follow Hannah Brown on Instagram: @_hey_design
Visit her website: heydesign.com.au