The Colourful World of Architect-Turned-Artist Hilary Stephens
Architect of art
By Kiri Johnston | 2nd September 2025A viral TikTok turned Melbourne-based architectural designer Hilary Stephens’ art hobby into the thriving Hilza Studio, where each bold creation is described as a love letter to the viewer. For our September issue, we caught up with the architect-turned-artist to hear about her journey, her work, and her recent residency in Ibiza.
For those who don’t know you yet, can you share a little about your journey, both past and present?
Absolutely! I’m an artist and architectural designer from Melbourne. I’ve spent my whole adult life studying and working in architecture and somehow ended up as a full-time artist in the last year! I’ve always been someone with multiple interests, routine-oriented to allow for spontaneity. So when I think about how I ended up here, it’s not really that surprising; the two fields really encompass everything I love.
Your background is in architecture – what drew you to that field initially, and what did you love most about it?
Funnily enough, it’s something I decided I wanted to do at 12 years old. I doubt I really knew what an architect was other than drawing houses, but I couldn’t have seen myself studying anything else. It’s the perfect mix of creativity and problem-solving that I love. I think I was initially drawn to the idea of something I designed actually being built, but it really became about the complexities of how architecture shapes the world we live in, how we live, move, feel, and connect. It really is an endless study and a constant source of inspiration.
What was the turning point that led you to start Hilza Studio?
It all came about quite organically, and sometimes I still find myself catching up with how it’s all taken off. While studying my master’s and living out of home, I was looking for art for my own space. Having worked on architectural projects in firms and wandered through many galleries, I knew what art I loved but unfortunately, it was well out of my university student budget. On the other hand, I didn’t want to buy mass-produced prints that I knew I wouldn’t keep forever, but I really couldn’t find anything I liked. So I thought I’d make my own prints and get them professionally framed. I posted a TikTok about the process, and within an hour had people asking where they could buy them. From there, I’ve just continued designing art I would have in my own home. My client base ranges from young design lovers moving out for the first time to architectural and interior projects across the world, which feels like a really wonderful full-circle moment.
How do you approach colour and light in your practice?
A lot of my reference to light is inspired by architectural projects or theories; it influences the layers and sequence of shapes or arrangements, which I roughly sketch out. I think about the presence the piece will hold in the space, much like an architectural project. I map it out almost like a storyboard: how will someone think and feel as they approach, and how will they feel once they’re in front of it, for example. The colours in my works are always extracted from photos I’ve taken while travelling. I derive a base palette from the image and then arrange the colours from dark to light. From there, I follow instinct with colours and layering. Some pieces come together almost instantly, each layer perfectly melting into the next. Others feel like a puzzle I can’t quite solve, and I just have to keep chipping away. No two pieces follow the same journey.
Reflecting on 2025 so far, what have the past eight months looked like for you and your practice?
2025 has been a bit of a whirlwind, in the most wonderful way! There’s been a lot of growth and on-the-go problem-solving. I’ve had the opportunity to create pieces for some incredible architectural projects, which always feels like a special crossover of worlds. I also worked on my first collection for an international gallery, which led to a Europe trip. I’ve come home inspired, with lots of new prints about to be released. Travel is my greatest inspiration; it’s where I photograph and find my colours, so I expect the last few months of the year to be filled with a lot of creating.
You recently did a residency in Ibiza – how did that opportunity come about, and what did the experience mean for you creatively?
The wonderful owner of In Between Gallery in Ibiza, Jess, reached out to me via email about creating an exclusive set of prints for the gallery. It was the easiest and most aligned decision. Being so new to my art journey, having my work in a gallery wasn’t even on my radar. I feel forever grateful for the opportunity and honoured to be among such talented artists. There is a magic in the air in Ibiza; energy is everywhere, so it was very special to have my art in a place that feels so aligned. The experience removed any ceilings or limits I had set for myself, from fear I wasn’t experienced enough or worries about what others might think. It was an invaluable reminder that anything is possible.
While in Europe, what places, colours, or cultural moments inspired you most?
I spent much of this trip to Europe alone, and in those forced moments of stillness, I took so much in. I did a lot of sketches and journalling, focusing on what I could see and hear. It really forces you to get comfortable with your own thoughts and intuition, something we can all practice in our home cities. I’m always inspired by the people I meet, the conversations, and the colours! I was amazed by how green Stockholm was. I’ve never seen a green so pigmented, so of course, some green prints are now in the works!
What’s been the most rewarding part of building Hilza Studio so far?
The people and projects it’s connected me with from all around the world. I truly believe the most memorable and important moments in life are those shared with others. The special part about art and creativity is that it starts conversations. My prints somehow find their way into the homes of the most wonderful and kind people. When I receive photographs or messages saying how much they love their prints, or how it has transformed their space, it really feels like a pinch me moment!
What advice would you give to other artists, especially those who are self-taught or starting a creative side hustle?
Firstly, just start! We can waste so much time planning and writing lists, but the actual doing, creating, and sharing is where progress is made. Your work and style will evolve as you do as a person, and you will most likely look back at old work and cringe (I know I do), but it’s also a fantastic reminder of your growth. I also think we can get bogged down in worrying about what other people will think, whether it’s a viral post or what makes a sell out product. This chasing of mass approval can make you lose sight of your own vision or voice. My best advice, and a pillar I hold for my practice, is: create for yourself first, and your audience, your people will find you.
