Nerissa Reynolds is a soulful holistic interior designer and stylist whose work goes far beyond aesthetics. A 2022 graduate of our online Interior Design course at The Interior Design Institute (IDI), Nerissa has since transformed her passion for creating spaces that tell a story into a thriving business. Drawing inspiration from her heritage, love for nature, and years of experience in real estate, renovation, and managing luxury holiday rentals, she believes that a home is more than just a physical space; it’s an extension of the people who live in it, a reflection of their emotions, and their connection to the world around them. Together with her husband, who runs the building company S J Constructions, Nerissa brought her design vision to life in their own home, "Four Winds"—a soulful, nature-connected haven that embodies her holistic design ethos and personal values.
In this post, we’ll explore Nerissa’s journey from childhood dreams to becoming a sought-after holistic interior designer, and how her unique approach to design has led to her success. Join us as we discover her design philosophy, the inspiration behind her work, and the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way.
Image Source: Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @amandadevegili.photos.
I’m a soulful holistic interior designer and stylist with a deep passion for creating spaces that tell a story. My journey has been shaped by my heritage, a love for nature, and years of experience in real estate, renovating, and managing luxe holiday rentals. I believe a home is more than just a space—it’s an extension of the people who live in it, their emotions, and their connection to the world around them.
Through my work with Bay Design Co and our home @four__winds, I specialise in designing interiors that feel deeply personal, whether honouring tradition or offering a complete renewal. My approach is intuitive and thoughtful, blending natural elements, sustainable materials, and meaningful curation to create spaces that feel aligned, inspired, and effortlessly beautiful.
Beyond interiors, I’m also a lifestyle photoshoot stylist, curating the perfect setting for fashion, interiors, and products. Every project I take on is guided by a sense of storytelling, ensuring that each space not only looks stunning but also resonates on a deeper, more soulful level.
As a child, my dream was always rooted in creating a sense of home—wherever life took me. Growing up, we moved a lot, and I learned early on that home isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling. It’s the warmth of familiar textures, the comfort of well-loved spaces, and the stories woven into every detail.
Some of my happiest memories are of being outdoors with my sister—picking flowers, swimming, being with horses, and feeling completely at peace in nature. That connection to the land, to movement, and to the beauty of simple moments shaped the way I see design today. My childhood dream was never just about designing beautiful homes—it was about creating places that hold heart, history, and harmony, no matter where life takes you.
My journey into interior design was inspired by a deep love for home, nature, and the stories spaces can tell. Growing up, we moved often, which taught me that home isn’t just a structure—it’s a feeling, a sense of belonging that you can create anywhere. I became fascinated with how spaces could transform not just in appearance but in energy and emotion.
Through my experience in real estate, renovating, and managing luxury holiday rentals, and working along side by husband is a builder I saw firsthand the power of design in shaping experiences. Whether honouring tradition or completely reimagining a space, I love curating environments that bring comfort, inspiration, and connection. That passion, blended with my belief in holistic living, led me to where I am today—creating interiors that don’t just look beautiful but feel deeply aligned with the people who live in them.
Image Source: Interior by Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @amandadevegili.photos.
A typical day in my life as an interior designer is a beautiful blend of creativity, mindfulness, and connection—both with my work and the people, animals, and places that inspire me.
My mornings start with intention. I make time for meditation, grounding myself before the day begins. After that, I enjoy breakfast with my children, soaking in those precious moments before the day gets busy.
Once I step into work mode, my day varies depending on the projects I’m immersed in. Some days are spent curating mood boards, selecting materials, and refining concepts for clients, making sure every element aligns with the energy of the space. Other days involve sourcing furniture, styling interiors, or coordinating photoshoots to bring a vision to life.
Nature is always woven into my day. I take moments to step outside, whether it's a quiet walk, visiting my horses, or simply gathering inspiration from the natural world around me. These pauses in nature fuel my creativity and keep my designs feeling grounded and soulful.
Evenings are for unwinding with my family at dinner time, reflecting on the day. My work is deeply personal, and I love that my life and design philosophy flow seamlessly together.
My design style is holistic, soulful, and deeply connected to nature. I believe a space should not only look beautiful but also feel harmonious, intentional, and nurturing—a true reflection of the people who live in it. I blend organic textures, earthy tones, and timeless elements to create interiors that feel effortless yet meaningful. I gravitate towards natural materials like linen, wood, and stone.
My inspiration comes from a deep connection to both design and the beauty of living in the Northern Rivers on a country property. My formal training with the Interior Design Institute gave me the technical skills to craft thoughtful, well-balanced spaces, while years of hands-on experience in building, renovating, and styling homes have refined my instinct for creating interiors that are both functional and soulful.
Working closely with my husband’s building company, I’ve gained an intimate understanding of construction, materials, and the art of bringing a vision to life from the ground up. Nature remains my greatest teacher—whether it’s the textures of aged timber, the movement of light through a space, or the grounding energy of natural materials, I am always inspired by the effortless beauty of the outdoors.
Image Source: Interiors by Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @amandadevegili.photos.
I don’t follow trends in the traditional sense. Instead, I focus on creating timeless, soulful spaces that feel authentic and lasting. My approach is about sustainability, lifestyle, and the natural world—I prefer to choose materials, colours, and elements that age beautifully and withstand the test of time.
The themes that flow through my work at Bay Design Co. are centred around the connection to nature, holistic living, and timeless design. I create spaces that feel grounded and restorative, using organic materials and natural light to invite the outdoors in.
On my wish list is a nature-filled retreat for creativity and peace, more time for creative exploration. I also wish to deepen my knowledge of holistic design and, of course, visit Greece—to soak in its beauty and history and gain inspiration. These dreams all align with my passion for creating spaces that nurture both the soul and the environment.
Image Source: Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @michael_lean_photography..
To design a retreat space holistically.
My space is in a office with surrounding glass windows with the sugar cane, hinterland views and cows, this is a basis of my inspiration. My husband and I built this office to inspire our creativity and allow for peace whilst doing so.
For me, finding balance means making time to spend with my horses, family and enjoy nature walks. These moments in nature are essential for grounding myself and sparking creativity. Whether it's feeling the connection with my horses or simply being surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors, these experiences help me recharge and maintain a healthy work/life balance.
Image Source: Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @amandadevegili.photos.
What brings me joy is the simple beauty of nature, the peace of spending time with my horses, and the connection I feel when creating soulful spaces. I find joy in the little moments—whether it’s a walk with my family, discovering new design ideas, or seeing the transformation of a space come to life. The act of curating meaningful environments that reflect a person’s unique story fills me with purpose and happiness. Above all, it’s the balance of family, nature, and creativity that truly nurtures my soul.
Yes, the online community plays an important role in my work, offering a platform to share my creative process and engage with a broader audience. But I also place great value on local and holistic connections. These relationships—whether with fellow designers, artisans, or clients—are where much of my true inspiration comes from. I believe in building genuine, meaningful connections that foster collaboration and growth, not just professionally but personally.
Locally, these connections allow me to stay grounded in my community, and holistically, they align with my values of sharing knowledge and supporting one another. The online community gives me space to share my work, while also offering creative outlets that inspire me and allow me to connect with others who share similar passions. Together, both local and online connections fuel my creativity, keeping me inspired and constantly learning.
Image Source: Interiors by Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @andymacpherson.studio..
Completing our home Four Winds, creating a successful Airbnb that was unique. Meeting beautiful like-minded people in both the industry and clientele that reflect my business.
The unique ethos behind my work is to create authentic, nurturing spaces that align with holistic living. I believe design should enhance well-being, encourage connection, and tell a story that reflects both beauty and sustainability. My focus is on using natural materials, sustainable practices, and timeless design principles that honour the environment and the people living in the space. Every project is an opportunity to craft soulful interiors that feel balanced, meaningful, and tell a unique story, supporting both the lives of my clients and the natural world around them.
I’m currently working on a range of interior projects, styling photoshoots, and designing a retreat space that blends holistic living with beautiful, functional design.
Image Source: Mood Board by Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @amandadevegili.photos.
My hobbies include spending time with horses, enjoying nature walks, and exploring new design ideas. I also love curating photoshoots, whether for fashion, interiors, or products, and finding inspiration in the process.
Linen (is that a colour it should be :) )
"Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. This quote speaks to my belief in the importance of slowing down, being present, and allowing the natural flow of creativity and life to unfold. It reminds me to honour the rhythm of nature and trust the process, both in design and in life.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho – A story about following your dreams and finding meaning in life, which deeply resonates with my holistic approach. I love Netflix real estate shows, Green magazine, Houses magazine, Pinterest is amazing also.
Image Source: Interiors by Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @amandadevegili.photos.
I love local brands, that are made by creative artisans, Australian made / owned businesses if possible, Style Sourcebook, Pinterest. I also like to recreate my own versions of inspiration without the need to copy others but using them as inspiration.
Sibella Court, local photographers, architects, builders—I cannot say one particular as I like to be as unique as possible.
@theinteriordeisgninstitute @stylesourcebook @thedharmadoor @habitusliving @wallpapermag and many more.
Soulful, timeless, intentional.
Image Source: Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @amandadevegili.photos.
I looked on your site and instantly knew it was the perfect way for me to study. It was so easy to use, the staff are so friendly and it is really inspiring and makes you want to learn. It is on trend.
The support and the course is easy to do online.
If you find a question too hard, ask for support, and also give it a day and revisit it. It’s worth submitting it even if it’s not perfect—then get the feedback to try again... Don’t give up. It’s the best course to help you on your way for a successful interior design/styling future.
Via my website nerissareynolds.com.
For anyone looking to expand their design knowledge while staying true to their own aesthetic and values, I highly recommend The Interior Design Institute. It provided me with the tools and inspiration to elevate my work at Bay Design Co, allowing me to create spaces like Four Winds @four__winds that are not just beautiful but soulful and aligned with a holistic way of living.
Image Source: Graduated #IDIstudent
Nerissa Reynolds from @baydesignco__. Photography
by @michael_lean_photography.
Nerissa’s journey is a testament to the power of following your passion and staying true to what inspires you. Her holistic approach to interior design, blending personal storytelling with sustainability and mindfulness, has not only set her apart in the industry but has also created a lasting impact on the spaces she touches.
If Nerissa’s story resonates with you and you’re passionate about making a meaningful difference through design, it’s never too late to start your own journey. With the right education, dedication, and a clear vision, you too can transform your love for design into a successful and fulfilling career. Let Nerissa’s path inspire you to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel deeply connected to the people and world around you.
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