Local Chick… Kristy Olsen from Coogee

By James Hutton on August 12, 2018 in People

Kristy Olsen splits her time between the north and south sides, but likes to call Coogee home. She recently launched her interior styling business, KO Designer, specialising in residential renovations and interior design. She shares her local favourites with The Beast…

How long have you lived here? I spend my time between Coogee and Crows Nest. I met my partner a year ago at Coogee Pavilion and he’s living in a great apartment overlooking Coogee Beach.

Why do you live here? I love Coogee. It’s such a beautiful suburb, it’s not too busy and there are so many great bars, cafes, pools, and beaches, and the stunning Coogee to Bondi coastal walk.

What’s your favourite beach? I’d have to say Balmoral Beach as I’ve gone there the most. Coogee Beach is fun and has a community feel, and I’ve got family living in Freshwater so I love it there too.

What’s your favourite eatery? A few of them are Café de France in Coogee, Bucket List in Bondi for lunch after a coastal walk, Icebergs for dinner is special and I’m still wanting to check out Fonda in Bondi. I worked on the new design for Pinocchio’s restaurant in The Juniors Kingsford and that’s just been renovated.

Where do you like to have a drink? The Coogee Pavilion Rooftop and Little Jack Horner when they’ve got live music on.

Best thing about the Eastern Suburbs? Definitely the coast; the walks are stunning. I love visiting Wylie’s Baths, going for a swim, coffee, lunch and lounging in the sun.

Worst thing about the Eastern Suburbs? Parking in the middle of summer.

What music are you into at the moment? I’m a huge fan of my talented brother who plays jazz at Palmer & Co in the city, Donny’s in Manly and Nola in Barangaroo. I like most genres of music, but I play Beyonce, Matt Corby and Florence and the Machine on repeat.

Do you have a favourite sporting team? I’m not big into sport but the Roosters were the first NRL team I saw live so I tend to go for them.

Who is your favourite person? My family, my amazing friends and a shout out to my partner, Greg.

What do you get up to on the weekends? I love getting out into nature and going for walks, catching up with friends at bars and cafes, and having some quiet, relaxing time.

What do you do for work? I’m an interior architect and started my business this year. I specialise in residential renovations and interior design for cafes, bars and restaurants. I’m also doing property staging and interior styling. You can check out my website, kodesigner.com.au, and follow me on Instagram, @kodesigner.

What’s your favourite thing about work? I love meeting new clients and working with them to achieve their dream interiors. I’m a really visual and creative person and I love seeing the difference a finished design can make compared to the previous outdated interior.

Do you have a favourite quote? I walked the Camino de Santiago last year with my sister and I love Paulo Coehlo’s quote: “We must never stop dreaming. Dreams provide nourishment for the soul, just as a meal does for the body.”

Any other words of wisdom for readers of The Beast? Do what you love and do it often; life can be short. It’s also my professional opinion that it’s worth getting an expert to discuss renovation plans, redecoration plans and property staging, as missing the mark can be expensive.