You've got samples everywhere, a builder waiting on answers, and decisions that all feel dependent on each other. I step in, see the full picture, and give you clear direction — so everything finally works together.
Expert selections guidance for Sydney's custom builds and renovations.
Your home doesn’t feel right — but you can’t figure out why
You've visited the tile showroom. The stone supplier. The kitchen place. You've come home with more samples than decisions — and somehow the more you research, the less certain you feel.
That's not a taste problem. That's a cohesion problem.
Individual decisions made in isolation never feel right together. Because a home isn't a collection of separate choices — it's a system. And without someone who can see the whole picture, it's almost impossible to get it right.
That's exactly what I do.
I bring clarity to the decisions that matter most.
I'm Deanna Michael — interior design consultant and founder of Elm & Ember Interiors. I work with homeowners going through custom builds and major renovations who need expert guidance on selections, finishes, and design direction.
I look at your home as a whole — your layout, your light, your materials, your lifestyle — and I guide every decision so nothing feels pieced together.
The result is a home that feels cohesive, considered, and completely right.
→ Serving Sydney | Eastern Suburbs — Randwick, Little Bay, Clovelly | Sutherland Shire | Wollongong & the South Coast
“Deanna completely understood our life with kids — and turned that chaos into calm. We felt supported the whole way through.”
— Lucy, New Build Client, Berry NSWHow I Can Help
The 48-Hour Selections Fix — $147
Overwhelmed right now and need fast, clear direction? Send me your selections, photos, and decisions — I'll send you back a personalised expert review within 48 hours.
Complete Home Direction
For custom build and renovation clients who want expert leadership across the entire project — selections, materials, colours, and cohesion from start to finish.
Exterior Colour & Material Selections
Expert guidance on exterior colours, cladding, roof, and finishes — including documentation for CDC and DA approvals
Colour Consultations (Interior & Exterior)
A focused session for paint colour direction — interior or exterior. Clear recommendations and a painter-ready schedule.
Most of my clients come to me after trying to figure it out themselves.
They've spent weekends at suppliers. Changed their minds. Second guessed decisions they thought were final.
Not because they lack taste — but because nobody showed them how it all works together.
That's what I'm here for.