A Dialogue with Lisa Sinagra
Confidence, Pricing & Community: Real Lessons for Designers
Episode 129
This week I’m joined by Lisa Sinagra, interior designer, founder of Stylis Creations, and the driving force behind the Perth Design Community. With more than 20 years in the industry, Lisa knows the real ups and downs of running a design business—and she’s passionate about making sure other designers don’t have to figure it all out the hard way.
In our chat, Lisa shares the lessons she’s learned about pricing, building confidence, and finding the right support. She’s honest, practical, and incredibly generous with her advice—exactly the kind of conversation you’ll want to grab a coffee and listen in on.
Hope you enjoy the episode
Beth xx
From Business Lessons to Community Impact
Lisa’s career has spanned more than two decades, and with it has come wisdom earned through both challenges and successes. She knows what it’s like to second-guess your pricing, to feel intimidated walking into a showroom, and to wonder if you’re doing things “the right way.” But rather than keeping those lessons to herself, Lisa has built an open and supportive community where designers can learn from one another and feel less alone in their journey.
Her work with the Perth Design Community shows what’s possible when collaboration takes the place of competition—creating a space where ideas, experiences, and opportunities are shared for the benefit of everyone.
Why Pricing Is Always a Work in Progress
Pricing is one of the biggest challenges for designers at every stage of business. Lisa opens up about:
Why pricing doesn’t have to be fixed—it’s a framework you can refine as you go.
How she built confidence by testing, learning, and adjusting over time.
Why undercharging doesn’t serve you—or your clients—in the long run.
Her perspective is refreshingly real: no one gets pricing perfect from the start, but clarity and confidence grow with experience.
The Confidence Shift Every Designer Needs
Many designers feel hesitant to put themselves out there—whether it’s networking, walking into supplier showrooms, or presenting to clients. Lisa shares:
Why confidence is built, not born.
How showing up (even when uncomfortable) leads to unexpected opportunities.
Why small steps—like asking one question at an industry event—compound over time.
It’s a reminder that confidence isn’t about being fearless; it’s about showing up consistently, even when you’re unsure.
Collaboration Over Competition
No designer can be great at everything. Lisa explains why collaboration is smarter than trying to “do it all”:
Working with joinery specialists, stylists, and other designers to deliver better outcomes.
How collaboration builds trust with clients and creates smoother project delivery.
Why leaning on other people’s strengths protects your energy and allows your creativity to thrive.
Why This Matters Now
In an industry that can sometimes feel competitive and isolating, Lisa’s story is a powerful reminder that community makes us stronger. When we share what we’ve learned—about pricing, confidence, or even mistakes—we lift the whole industry up.
Her insights are practical, generous, and deeply relatable. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience behind you, Lisa’s approach shows that you don’t need to have all the answers—you just need the willingness to learn, connect, and keep going.
Key Highlights From This Episode
The biggest pricing lessons Lisa has learned over 20+ years.
How confidence grows through consistent action, not perfection.
Why showing up at events (even nervously) can unlock new opportunities.
The role of the Perth Design Community in breaking down barriers between designers.
Why collaboration always leads to better outcomes for clients.
How sharing knowledge creates a stronger industry for everyone.
Final Thoughts
This episode is a refreshing, honest, and uplifting reminder that you don’t have to do design business alone. Lisa’s story shows the power of leaning into community, refining your business practices over time, and having the courage to back yourself even when it feels daunting.
If you’ve ever struggled with pricing, felt unsure of your confidence, or wished you had a stronger support network, Lisa’s insights will remind you that you’re not alone—and that with the right mindset and community, your business can thrive.
Connect with Guest
Follow Lisa Sinagra on Instagram: @styliscreations @theperthdesigncommunity
Explore her work: Stylis Creations Website
Learn more about the Perth Design Community