Ask an Expert: Justin Putric
Justin Putric of Putric Design, and designer at Alby Turner, winner of 2010’s KBDi Unique Project of the Year.
How did you get started in the industry?
I studied and completed a degree in Industrial Design at the University of South Australia with a heavy influence in furniture design. I travelled and lived overseas for two years after I finished my degree and, when I returned to Australia, I embarked on my first job as a kitchen designer. Five years later, I’m still here at [SA design and manufacturing company] Alby Turner.
What made you decide to become involved in KBDi?
I believe the KBDi is an integral element in making our industry more professional, less sales-focused and more design-focused. This is very important to me. Membership of KBDi gives me the opportunity to meet other designers in the industry. I also relish the chance to compete with other designers on a level playing field in the annual awards.
What impact has winning the award last year made on you as a designer? Have you changed much about how you approach design now?
I still approach every design as I did previously — with an open mind and open ear — so in that respect it hasn’t changed much. From Alby Turner’s point of view, it has been a great benefit to have our designers recognised as some of the best in the country. The business remains rooted in its origins with a strong heritage in South Australia, yet evolution is always necessary and this is where a modern and forward-thinking team makes all the difference.
What’s next for Justin Putric?
I’m looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead. In addition to my kitchen design work, I recently set up my own multi-disciplinary design business in partnership with a fellow graphic designer. As a creative design advisor, I look after all facets of design including websites, app building and branding. A recent project we completed is for a restaurant that included everything from branding all the way to shop fit out and signage design.
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