Office design is more than just aesthetics - it shapes productivity, collaboration, and employee well-being. At the forefront of crafting functional yet inspiring workplaces is Ishoa Scozzafava, a designer at Total Fitouts Sunshine Coast.

With a journey that started in sports science and a passion ignited by designing her own home, Ishoa transitioned into interior design and has spent the last five years helping businesses create dynamic and purposeful workspaces.

In this interview, Ishoa shares her design philosophy, the importance of balancing aesthetics with functionality, and the evolving role of office spaces in the era of hybrid work.

Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to a career in interior design?

I wanted to study Architecture in school but back in my day you needed A in Physics to get into university. I went into sports science instead.

After having children and designing our own custom house with a small builder ignited the fire within me. So, I turned to study interior design at the Sydney Design School - Online.

While I was working I managed to get a job as a design assistant at Total Fitouts on the Sunshine Coast and the rest is history. I have been here for five years now. 

What excites you most about designing workspaces? 

I love designing workspaces and offices as I really think that you can bring elements of hospitality and warmth of residentintial to the work spaces. They are really wanting a cohesive space that works well in productivity to all style of employees. 

How would you describe your design philosophy in one sentence? 

Designing spaces that are warm, inclusive, and thoughtfully structured, where colour and form come together to create harmony and make everyone feel connected and comfortable.

When approaching an office fitout, what are the first things you consider? 

Spatially, I start with how many people to be working at one time and what the client wants the growth of the space to become. I then start block planning.

Aesthetically, I like to start with the floor colour way and work my way up. 

What are some common mistakes businesses make when designing their workspace? 

Leaving acoustic planning as an afterthought or if the budget doesn't allows, it is so important for people to have a calm and quiet environment to work in. 

How do you balance aesthetics with functionality in your designs? 

Colour blocking, you can use tonal planning with items so the space doesn't feel overwhelming with items. If you need multipul items in one space. 

What role does furniture play in creating a productive office environment?

I think you need space for breakout areas, and again acoustic control. You can get really creative with it if the budget allows. 

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to businesses investing in an office redesign? 

Future planning makes sure we are thinking long term. Offices change and grow.

How can small businesses create an inspiring workspace on a budget? 

Refine the space, streamline the storage. 

What are the key elements that every high-performing office should have?

Breakout space that is comfortable and calming. 

How do you see the role of office design evolving with hybrid work and flexible workspaces?

Hot desks, minimal clean lines, moveable space. 

Is there a workspace project you’ve worked on that you’re especially proud of? What made it special?

We have a small boutique real estate agency that wanted to be very funky. We are now designing their head office which is a large tenancy. It's very exciting. 

Where do you find inspiration for your designs? 

Everywhere, I pull from everywhere, travel, and overseas trends. Being on the Sunshine Coast, clients love to pull from the coastal inspiration.

If you could design your dream workspace, what would it look like? 

If I had an unlimited budget, each space would be designed to its individual needs, with the lighting that aligned to warmth and productivity. Custom acoustic features. Beautiful work pod and quiet spaces.

What’s one trend in office design you think will be big in the next few years? 

Wellness and hybrid spaces. This will be huge, employees happiness equals productivity.

Any final words of wisdom for businesses looking to improve their work environment? 

Don't be afraid of colour. It can change a space entirely.