The Queen Of Soul

Striking a balance between creativity and functionality is possibly the most challenging aspect of interior design. Julia Millen spoke to Caroline Usher of UBD Global about how she strives to create harmony.

Finding a balance across different clients and projects can be difficult and develops mostly through experience. Experienced designers develop an inner sense of the meeting point where client expectations, budget, creative expression and usability all meet and this has rarely been truer than with Caroline Usher, the founder and creative director of UBD Global, a design studio based in Bali, Indonesia. She is eloquent in detailing how she sees the “soul” of the projects she works on and then leverages this inner sense.

Born in New Zealand, Caroline’s mother was the key influence in her early life. Her mother was a problem solver, a do-er and a constant supporter of Caroline’s interests, whether mainstream or on the fringe. “Be yourself, believe in yourself” was the mantra from her lips. And so it was, with this advice in mind, that at the age of 17, Caroline embarked on the journey that would first truly spark her creative mind, working as a set designer for blockbuster movies like The Mummy Returns, Beyond Borders and The Four Feathers. High expectations, short deadlines, trailer loads of problems and stiff budgets were a constant and delivery was everything.

After 22 years in the industry, Caroline opted for a life change and a career change, “Be yourself, believe in yourself” resounded loudly in her mind.

Caroline founded UBD Global in 2010. She had three key ideas of what she wanted to achieve – to create unique and high-quality interior design concepts both residential and commercial; operate with purpose in support of the Balinese community; and actively work with sustainable, local materials wherever possible.

UBD Global applied this vision and Caroline’s exceptional gift for finding the “soul” of a project to deliver exceptional design.

Caroline uses her skills and foresight to create elegant new concepts which carefully deploy colour, style and furnishings to create a luxurious yet refined experience, generously garnered with tropical detailing and local details.

Every step taken evokes a sensation of tranquility. Exuding luxury and comfort, from the plush furnishings to the exquisite decor, creating a calming and enchanting sanctuary. Whether lounging by the pool, indulging in gourmet cuisine, simply unwinding in the pavilion or chilling out in the media room, a sumptuous villa is an experience that has character and soul.

Caroline is adept at designing impressive yet soothing spaces to relax and entertain, with bespoke details to reflect individual homes and of course, to pay homage to the beautiful Balinese countryside.

“The soul of the villas is the balance we’ve created between sophistication and livability”, says Caroline; “It wows and welcomes, in equal measure”.

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