This project is still my favourite.

In 2012, I  customised a standard factory-delivered Santorini black Land Rover Defender 90 with the goal to push boundaries and defy expectations by elevating the vehicle’s design and features beyond its existing standards.

With the Land Rover Defender’s rich history rooted in the British military during the 80s and 90s, renowned for its rugged off-road reputation in Bond films and as the choice of British Royalty, I was instantly drawn to the idea of juxtaposing its gritty origins with a more sophisticated look.

The transformation began with a luxurious matte black paint job, creating an immaculate finish that exuded refinement. To elevate the vehicle’s interior, I selected a mock-crocodile material that contrasted with the Defender’s robust exterior. Customised clear light lenses and mats added the finishing touches to this metamorphosis.

Rising to the challenge of customising a legendary, limited-edition vehicle like the Defender was a great experience. Handcrafted in the UK, only 25,000 of these automotive icons were built annually for 67 years, making our 2015 project one of the final tributes to this unrivalled off-road warrior.

If you catch a glimpse of this badass, one-of-a-kind Defender in Sydney’s urban jungle, its unapologetic presence will command attention. As a symbol of adventure and daring spirit, it proudly blends the timeless essence of off-road dominance with a touch of modern sophistication. Total badass.