Born in Australia and raised in Malaysia, David Hicks’ early exposure to diverse cultures and architectural styles laid the foundation for his distinctive design approach. This multicultural upbringing instilled in him an appreciation for blending traditional elements with contemporary aesthetics, a hallmark of his work.

A Distinctive Vision Rooted in Sophistication

Hicks’ background, born in Australia, raised partly in Malaysia, and educated in design at RMIT, gave him a multicultural and multidisciplinary perspective. This global awareness is evident in his work, where European classicism meets modernist Australian sensibility. Rather than merely decorating, Hicks reconstructs space: reworking proportions, layering textures, and applying strict attention to spatial flow. His interiors, whether a private penthouse or a flagship retail space, display both restraint and richness, qualities that have made him a sought-after name not only in Australia but globally.

Global Projects and a Clientele Drawn to Discretion and Drama

David Hicks Design has worked with some of the most private yet influential clients in Australia and abroad, ranging from elite property developers to high-net-worth individuals across Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and London. While many designers focus solely on residential spaces, Hicks seamlessly moves across sectors, luxury apartments, retail flagships, high-end hospitality, and commercial offices, bringing the same level of precision and polish to each. One of his landmark projects, the Spring Street Penthouse in Melbourne, exemplifies his command of spatial drama: double-height ceilings, custom-designed furniture, and meticulously selected European finishes all converge in a display of bespoke opulence. Similarly, his work on Bar Bambi, an upscale bar and music venue, shows his ability to blend glamour with intimacy.

Hicks is known to sketch every detail and involve himself in the structural layout from the earliest stages, ensuring that no design decision feels disjointed or afterthought. The furniture and lighting are often custom-built for the space, developed in collaboration with local artisans and international makers. Even in retail projects, such as those for luxury fashion houses, Hicks doesn’t merely fit out a shop—he curates an atmosphere that reflects the brand’s ethos while delivering something entirely unique. His global reach was formalized when he opened a second studio in Los Angeles, bringing his Australian DNA to an international clientele drawn to bold understatement and architectural luxury.

Design Philosophy, Influence, and Future Direction

At the core of Hicks’ design ethos is an unwavering belief in detail-driven environments that are built to last. His interiors aren’t about Instagram moments, they’re about lifelong impact. In an age where interior design is often reduced to aesthetic trends, Hicks brings gravitas and intentionality. His 2016 book, Intimate: A Private World of Interiors, offers a rare behind-the-scenes look into his practice, showcasing both finished projects and the thinking behind them. It’s more than a coffee table book, it’s a manifesto for future designers who aspire to combine creativity with discipline. Through this, Hicks has positioned himself as not just a practitioner but a thought leader in the luxury space.

His influence also extends into media and mentorship. Hicks has appeared as a guest judge on Australian design television shows and frequently speaks at global design events. Despite his public profile, Hicks remains deeply hands-on with each project, refusing to dilute his brand with overextension. His team is small, intentional, and elite, chosen for their ability to deliver on his high standards. Looking ahead, Hicks continues to evolve, pushing boundaries in materials and digital fabrication, and even hinting at a foray into product design and branded residences. Yet he remains committed to his core philosophy: every project is personal, every element is deliberate, and every space must stand the test of time.

Written By: Mia Quisumbing

Published On: 2nd July 2025