The Art of Mum | Mandy Duncan
IMAGES Alice Veysey
MANDY DUNCAN. Owner and Designer of Noah and Bowie.
Working from home, in her sophisticated aesthetically pleasing central – Mandy Duncan is the next promising talent in the world of design, online shopping and social media; if she isn’t already there. Curating the brand ‘Noah and Bowie’ that has drawn inspiration from her two young children Noah (8) and Bowie (4), whom, with their own sense of style and beautiful little personalities have influenced her to concentrate on earthy, classic and easy to wear colour pallets which is demonstrated throughout her trans seasonal collections.
Upon entrance into Mandy’s unique and minimally inspired studio, it is clear that a lot of creativity is mastered within. From the huge chunky frames showcasing her lovely children, husband, wedding and textural patterns adorning the white walls in her work space, to the bohemian rugs and furs that line objects, everything about Mandy’s space only simply begin to describe the way she captures her brand – ultimately reflecting on her interiors and work space.
Combining her work space and home, in a converted garage the minimal studio exhibits strong modern minimalist vibes with the technicality of mid-century modernism. Converting the space seemed something necessary in order to grow the brand and give Mandy somewhere to completely defy all odds in her designing and creative abilities.
Inspiration is a large part of Mandy’s life and creative experiences, admitting her boho-chic interior style comes from sourcing and researching top trends from around the globe through Pinterest and the likes of other platforms, “Im the biggest Pinterest user. Its so addictive. It allows you to take bits and pieces from other people’s spaces and throw your own style into it and create something perfect and unique to you.”
At the hub of inspiration and motivation Mandy credits her Husband Kelvyn, and mother. Without them Mandy assures “I wouldn’t be where I am today… they have never let me give up even when I’m at my worst days… they see something in me that I don’t even see”.
Separated from upstairs, the space that Mandy has created features a plethora of natural light which is a defining factor “I have the concentration of a child, so anything to keep my mind clear and focused” she laughs. In general, its classic white and bohemian pieces create a beautiful space to keep one motivated. Infused with simple clear lines and a neat and tidy manner the studio expresses the timeless nature of not only the brand but the way Mandy deems precedence in the establishment of her livelihood and trade.
Establishing ‘me time’ whilst having her space at home is something that feels natural to Mandy. With Noah at school, and Bowie at kindy 3 days a week – it is essential time for Mandy to get into some work and enable some time on her own.
As a devoted mum, and an inspiration to many who follow her popular blog and Instagram pages – Mandy has created a little space for Bowie in the studio for when she has to work and asserts “she’s my little helper”.
Establishing a relationship with a space is always important and when asked Mandy assures “I honestly love everything about my space – it’s the best place to be create and design”. It can be considered a blessing that Mandy has been able to curate such a space within her home, so she still has time to be a mother and wife, while running her successful brand. Creating the work life balance has established the foundation of creation, ultimately assuring that Mandy is here to influence for a long time to come – her studio can be a base to this, customising creation and supporting a network of knowledge and originality.