Creative Connect at the SJS Showroom – A Night of Inspiration, Ideas & Industry Connection

15 Aug

Panel conversation at the SJS Industry Connect event, featuring Danielle Thurston, Sarah Marriott, Andrea Newton, Christopher Tyas, and Glen from LA Lounge in the Byron Bay showroom.

Industry Connect at the SJS Showroom – Where Byron’s Creative & Construction Worlds Meet

On Friday, July 18, our Byron Bay showroom transformed into a buzzing hub of conversation, inspiration, and collaboration for our first Industry Connect event. Designed to bring together Byron’s creative and construction community — from architects and designers to developers, builders, and local makers — the evening was all about connection.

Setting the Scene

As guests arrived, they were greeted with welcome drinks, a beautifully styled grazing table, and the warm glow of ambient lighting. Our showroom was layered with designer furniture, sculptural florals, and local artworks — creating the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversation.

A live DJ curated the soundtrack for the night, while subtle scents of fig, sandalwood, and bergamot drifted through the space. It wasn’t just an event; it was an experience for all the senses.

The Conversations

The night opened with a welcome from Danielle Thurston, who shared the purpose behind Industry Connect — to strengthen relationships within our local creative and construction sectors.

We then heard from our four speakers:

Sarah Marriott (SJS Interior Design) – On the importance of collaboration in bringing design visions to life.
Glen (LA Lounge) – On how lighting design can elevate wellbeing and the role of circadian rhythm in spaces.
Andrea Newton (Artist) – On art as the “final layer” in interior design and its emotional impact.
Christopher Tyas (CADRE Development) – On values-led development and balancing commercial goals with community vision.

The talks led into a lively panel discussion, touching on creativity, problem-solving, community influence, and moments when collaboration took projects beyond expectation.

The Magic of Connection

What stood out most wasn’t just the insights from the stage, but the moments between — industry peers meeting for the first time, swapping stories, sharing laughs, and making plans to work together.

By the time the evening wrapped up (or for some, much later), the room felt less like a group of separate businesses and more like a community.

Looking Ahead

We’re already planning Round 2 of Industry Connect for later this year, (October but psssst) with a storytelling format that will give more of our community a chance to share their work and ideas.

Thank you to our speakers, guests, and local sponsors — Stone & Wood, Chow Cacao, Mellows, and Byron Bay Candles — for helping make the night such a success.

If you’d like to be part of our next event or explore hiring our showroom for your own gathering, get in touch at enquiries@sjsatelier.com.au.

Sabrina Talo

At Sabrina Talo Studios, we saw a gap in the market for interior design that goes beyond just fancy furniture—it’s about shaping experiences. We specialise in creating spaces that evoke emotion and leave lasting memories, all while working within our clients’ budgets. By mixing second-hand items with carefully selected new products, we craft unique, impactful environments that feel both personal and immersive. Our focus is on designing spaces that resonate with guests, creating atmospheres that go beyond aesthetics to truly shape the experience.

https://sabrinatalostudios.com.au