About Paper & DeskHello, I’m Rachel
I’m the founder and designer at Paper & Desk, a Brisbane-based freelance graphic design office that specialises in publication design.
I work with clients locally in Queensland and interstate (New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory), and am open to international collaborations.
A short back story
I’m a graphic designer who stumbled into the creative arts while attempting to start a career in – of all places – academia!
While I was working on a Doctorate in Law and Economics, I interned as a magazine writer to improve my thesis writing. This later led to a magazine design opportunity at the same publishing business, which I loved! So, once my PhD was done, I enrolled in design school to learn more about the world of design. I took on freelance projects in the evenings while employed as a designer, eventually gathering enough experience and work to launch my own full-time design office, Paper & Desk.
I’ve been a graphic designer for over a decade, and still love what I do. These days, I help corporate communications teams bring their company’s story to life through impactful publications, by way of reports, prospectuses, magazines, and other multi-page documents. My experience covers a wide variety of sectors, including fashion, foodservice, lifestyle, real estate, health, education, research, resources, consulting, horticulture, agriculture and events… to name a few! Most of my clients find me through an online search or word of mouth, and I’m fortunate that many bring me along when they move roles, giving me the chance to keep working together and explore new industries along the way.
When I’m not in my office, you’ll find me reading about personal finance, assisting with communications workshops, or out camping.
What’s it like to work with me?
“I had the absolute pleasure of working with Rachel on a complex publication project, and she was nothing short of amazing. Not only is she a truly talented creative designer with a sharp eye for layout and publication design, but she’s also incredibly organised, responsive, and a fantastic communicator. She brought thoughtful, strategic recommendations to the table and helped us navigate some tricky stakeholder feedback with grace and professionalism. She was also so patient and positive through many rounds of changes and shifting deadlines, and always focused on solutions and delivering a high-quality product. Her flexibility and calm, logical approach made her feel like a true extension of our team. Beyond her impressive skills, she’s just a genuinely lovely person to work with. I’d jump at the chance to collaborate with her again, and recommend her for any design projects.”
— Camille, Rio Tinto“I can't tell you how glad I am that I found Rachel! When I approached her, Progress Magazine was just a dream that had been brewing away for years. I knew what type of written content I wanted to include, but I didn't know what I wanted it to all look like. When I stumbled upon Rachel's website, I hoped I had found the right designer — after all, she specialised in magazine design. But, I can safely say that Rachel not only met my expectations but blew them out of the water. Apart from being incredibly talented, Rachel is a joy to work with. She's fast, responsive, reliable, patient and direct in the very best way. She can also take feedback on board and never seems to take it personally — instead taking it in her stride and iterating until it's perfect. I have had SO many compliments on the design and it's all thanks to Rachel. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a world-class editorial designer and creative partner.
— Emma, Progress Magazine“I just want to say a big thank you for your professionalism and dedication. No task was ever too big for you and you were so efficient at putting the magazine together. Finally, I love the look of the mag. The colours, design and layout work really well… it is amazing. Thank you so much for all your hard work and enthusiasm!”
— Jo, Queensland Ambulance Service"Thanks very much Rach for being on hand today on short notice to put the corporate proposal together. It looks great, I'm super happy with it - and given the timeframe! I don't think anyone would have done a better job than you did today - thank you."
— Angie, Censo Work Solutions
Bigger projects don’t mean bigger problems, if you work with the right designer.Why my clients work with me:
Effective design
With my design experience, I’ll help you create multi-page documents that are on brief, on brand and on point with your audience.
Efficient delivery
I’m a designer who delivers on time and will work with you to create a schedule that allows for revisions while meeting deadlines.
Easy to work with
I keep you informed and ensure easy communication throughout the design process, so you always know where things are at.
Need something designed?