Erna Walsh: 30 Years Shaping Australian Design
Thirty years ago, Erna Walsh walked into the design industry with big ideas, a discerning eye, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. Today, as co-founder and CEO of K5 Furniture, she’s widely recognised as one of the driving forces behind the revitalisation of Scandinavian design in Australia.
Through her career, Erna has introduced collections that have become industry touchstones, from the acclaimed Boyd Collection to the bold, innovative Roy Grounds Collection, each rooted in her belief that good design should be both timeless and forward-thinking.
Her commitment to sustainability has set a benchmark for the industry, weaving environmental responsibility into every aspect of the business long before it became a trend. For Erna, sustainability isn’t a buzzword; it’s a guiding principle.
To mark her three decades in the industry, we sat down with Erna for a quick Q&A.
“ Surround yourself with people who share your vision and values. That’s where the magic happens.”
How does it feel to be celebrating 30 years in design?
It’s surreal, honestly. I still feel the same excitement I had on my first day. What’s changed is my appreciation for the depth of relationships and the power of design to shape the way we live and work.
Proudest career moment?
Launching the Boyd Collection was huge, it was a love letter to Australian architecture and craftsmanship. But I’m equally proud of the quieter moments, like seeing our pieces become part of someone’s everyday life.
Biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Surround yourself with people who share your vision and values. That’s where the magic happens.
Design ethos in three words?
Timeless, functional, responsible.
What keeps you inspired?
Travel always sparks ideas, but I’m just as inspired by walking into a space we’ve furnished and seeing people use it in ways we didn’t imagine.
As we celebrate Erna’s 30 years in the industry, we honour her vision, leadership, and the countless ways she’s shaped the Australian design landscape. Here’s to the next chapter.
To explore the full range or experience our collection in person, visit our showrooms or browse online.