#GradsDoingGreatThings: Samantha Onley from The_Cali.phillipisland

Design School - Online - Group 20, 2022
Trainer: Melissa Heard

Samantha Onley - Designer & Coastal Creative | Phillip Island, VIC

From local government to coastal homes and colour filled spaces, Samantha Onley has carved out her own creative path as the designer behind airbnb, The Cali, Phillip Island- a warm, playful and beautifully balanced family retreat that celebrates thoughtful design and bold colour choices.

After spending more than 15 years working across state and local government, Samantha reached a turning point when her boys began kinder and school. With more time to explore her passions, she made the decision to finally study something that excited her, and Design School was the perfect fit!

What’s your current role and how did you carve your own path into the industry?

I chose to do this course (Cert IV in Interior Decoration) for me. I currently work for myself, completing my own projects of building and design. My most recent project being the The Cali, Phillip Island

“Understanding colour opened my eyes to a whole new world of design… The Cali really showcases my love of colour and how you shouldn’t be afraid to use it.”

What kinds of projects do you specialise in—and what do you think makes your work stand out?

I have renovated and built a few homes now. Colour theory was one of my favourite modules at Design School. Understanding colour has opened my eyes to a whole new world of design. I always loved painting bold and bright colours at school. I believe my last project, The Cali, really showcases my love of colour and how you shouldn’t be afraid to use it. I also love SketchUp! I was introduced to SketchUp at Design School and developed a real knack for it. I have an obsession with designing kitchens. My husband is a builder, so I have put these skills to good use and assist his clients with designing kitchen/bathroom layouts. 

What did life look like before design - and what was your 'aha' moment to study with us?

I had worked for state and local governments for over 15 years. After I had my two boys, I decided to take some time to enjoy them growing up. I have always loved interiors, so once the kids started kinder and school, I saw that time as an opportunity to study something that made me excited, although I was restricted on how I was going to study. Design School ticked all the boxes for me, and I was fortunate to be able to complete the hybrid course. I loved being back in the classroom. 

Can you share a moment during your time at Design School that shaped your confidence or creative direction? 

I unfortunately doubt myself a lot. Throughout the course, I would always look at other’s projects and just say ‘wow’. My fellow students were all Oh so talented! We all had different design styles. I think my biggest moment of confidence was at graduation when my beautiful teacher Mel Heard, spoke some truly heartwarming words about me and my journey. She made me believe in myself and my ideas and style.  

 How do you stay inspired or creatively fuelled?

Pinterest is so underrated. I love exploring its collection of images of colour and textures, you can search mood words and it generates some great images. I sometimes find inspiration from the weirdest images. I love researching, especially marketing trends, their use of colour, shapes, textures it really draws you in. I love trying to bring that same mood/feeling into my interiors

What did you learn at Design School that you didn’t expect—but now couldn’t live without?

SketchUp and Canva! 

Module 8 Project Work: Samantha Onley- Colour & Lighting Concept

What role did mentorship and support from the trainers play in your journey? 

My trainer Mel made me push my boundaries!

It can be easy to follow a trend or ‘play it safe’, I love the advice she gave to follow my own unique style and truth, it was the best thing for me!

Tip – Always throw a colour in that you never thought you’d use! You might surprise yourself!

How has the Design School community and or social media stayed part of your life post-graduation?

I follow most of my classmates on social media. I love seeing what they are up to. Seeing all new and past students work is really inspiring. The design world is never boring!

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Samantha’s most recent project, @the_cali.phillipisland, is a testament to her ability to blend bold colour with warmth, fun and considered detail. The home feels relaxed and modern, infused with sun-kissed tones, playful accents and a sense of nostalgia. A space that feels joyful, lived-in, and deeply personal. Her passion for colour theory shines through. It was one of her favourite modules during the course, and it has become a signature in her design approach.

What advice would you give someone standing where you were on Day One- of either the course or after graduation? 

It is never too late to try something new! It sounds so cliché, but honestly, just give it a go. It’s better to regret trying and failing than to regret not trying at all.