My Career Change at 40

At the age of 40, with a then 3 month old, Jack and two year old, Lauren, I decided to have a career change that would allow me to work full-time in our construction company and live a creative life. I know, I’ll become an Interior Designer. This meant retraining, so off to uni I went, or rather onto the computer to learn all the skills of the trade online.

““...have a career change that would allow me to work full-time in our construction company and live a creative life.””

Over the past two years, I have discovered my passion in life is functional design and that my empathy and emotional nature are a huge strength in designing interiors spaces, as I can interpret a client's needs and create the mood they are wanting in their home.

I also had totally underestimated what I would learn, and I had completely forgotten how hard learning can be. I thought I’d learn to decorate! I have learned so much more, from industry standard software to how light and materials effect and affect a space. I’ve analysed incredible designs that I would never have been exposed to in real life. One day I will visit some of them!

Call me crazy! It has been a challenge, I remember feeding Jack while Lauren went through the bin under the desk. Jack also likes it under the desk.

I am excited to introduce you to Elements Interiors and Constructions, a new business under our company Western Area Building Pty Ltd. My husband, Damian Batten and I bring together the practicality of an experienced builder and my keen eye and passion for design.

I’m very grateful for the support of my husband and my family as I navigate life. There is never a dull moment. Damo says, “We have an extraordinary life”. He is right, we do.

You’re never to old to retrain, I figure we spend so much time at work we need to enjoy it. I’m really looking forward to starting to work and see some of my designs realised. I’m learning to navigate the construction industry. I think that women have a huge role to play in the future development of the industry, particularly in sectors like design that are relatively new to Regional NSW.

““I’ll be going to trade nights and I can already see the look on the faces when a woman turns up!””

I’d love to connect with others in the industry, so please connect on socials or message me!