JENNA BLADEN
CREATIVE BIO:
Jenna Bladen is an emerging Sydney-based interior designer dedicated to crafting immersive, sensory-rich environments that redefine the traditional boundaries of design. Growing up in South Africa, Jenna’s early visual diet consisted of crowded squatter camps juxtaposed against colonial buildings and modern architectural gems. Her South African heritage and consumer centric approach inform her unique design perspective, where cultural sensitivity meets emotional resonance. Grounded in placemaking, Jenna’s work is about more than aesthetics—it’s about designing spaces that foster connection, tell stories, and engage the senses. With a deep commitment to sustainable practices, she integrates environmental responsibility into her design process, ensuring that every space not only elevates human experience but also respects the planet.
DESIGN STATEMENT:
The Isogawa Pavilion, is a free-standing immersive journey located in The Cutaway, Barangaroo. Designed for a pop-up event during Australian Fashion Week, the pavilion explores the work and design philosophies of Australia’s iconic fashion designer Akira Isogawa, reflecting his unique design approach to fashion, emphasising the fluidity and movement of his designs while providing a versatile space that caters to runways, exhibitions, and social interaction. The pavilion itself is conceived as a three-dimensional form, much like Akira’s approach to draping fabric. The design unfolds organically, with spaces that flow and adapt to the diverse needs of the event, creating a dynamic environment that mirrors the fluidity and movement inherent in Isogawa’s work. In alignment with Akira’s commitment to sustainability, the pavilion prioritises circular creation principles, utilising materials that can be recycled or repurposed post-event. As well as this the pavilion also incorporates biophilic elements, fostering a connection with nature through the thoughtful use of light, texture, and natural materials. The objective is to create a space that not only showcases Akira Isogawa’s iconic work but also embodies his design philosophy, offering visitors an immersive experience that celebrates the artistry of fashion and design. The Isogawa Pavilion strives to honour Akira’s legacy while inspiring future generations
