When you step into a space designed by Mia Lake Interiors, you immediately feel it - a sense of calm, balance, and beauty that reflects not just the homeowner but the artistry behind every decision. At the heart of this design studio is Mia Lake herself, a seasoned designer with over 15 years of experience and an undeniable passion for creating spaces that are both beautiful and deeply functional.
Mia’s career is a tapestry of impressive roles, including time at Briony Fitzgerald Design and Arent&Pyke, before taking the helm as Interior Director at Vic Lake Architects. Yet, it’s her independent journey with Mia Lake Interiors that truly embodies her design philosophy: beauty that goes beyond aesthetics and into every touchpoint of the client experience.
A Life-Changing Start in Florence
Mia’s love for design traces back to a pivotal moment early in her career. “When I was younger, I won a scholarship to study in Florence, Italy,” she says. “It was life-changing, both professionally and personally.”
Italy, a country celebrated for its effortless ability to marry design with everyday life, left an indelible mark on Mia. “The Italians find ‘beautiful’ in everything - women, men, food, shoes, cars, even their afternoon siestas,” she reflects. “They celebrate life with such passion, and they’ve mastered the art of balancing the simple and the refined.”
This approach to beauty shaped Mia’s vision for her own studio. “I created Mia Lake Interiors to find and make ‘beautiful’ in everything we do. It’s not just about a curated kitchen or a perfectly planned furniture layout - it’s about creating experiences that feel beautiful, whether that’s for our clients, our builders, or even within our studio team.”
The Mia Lake Interiors Design Process
Mia’s approach is both systematic and imaginative. “Our process strikes a balance between logic and beautiful disorder,” she explains. Each project begins with a unique spark of inspiration. “It could be a piece of art, the shape of a room, or even something unexpected. From there, we sketch, work in CAD, and refine every detail until it aligns with the overall vision.”
Collaboration is also central to their work. Mia and her team thrive on creative exchange - whether it’s with clients, consultants, or trades. “We pride ourselves on listening carefully and tailoring our approach to meet every client’s needs. The result is a design journey that feels as seamless as the spaces we create.”
A Signature Style
While Mia Lake Interiors prides itself on adaptability, there are certain hallmarks that define their work. “Texture and movement are central to our designs,” Mia explains. “Whether it’s soft and subtle or bold and striking, these elements bring a sense of soulfulness to a space.”
Functionality is just as crucial. “The proportions of a piece can completely change how a room works. We choose products that not only look beautiful but enhance the flow and harmony of a space.”
Inspiration from Heritage
One of Mia’s standout projects was a heritage-listed home in Darling Point. “The client wanted to pair the building’s timeless elegance with a bold, fun colour-blocking brief,” she recalls. “It was such a joy to juxtapose vibrant hues against historical architecture. My favourite moment? Watching the builders’ reactions as those colourful spaces came to life - it was as if they were seeing the house breathe again.”
Crafting Beauty at Home
Mia’s personal space is a reflection of her design philosophy. “I live in an apartment with a warehouse aesthetic, softened by personal touches - artwork, a custom kitchen splashback. It’s all about balance, blending the raw and industrial with something more inviting and individual.”
When it comes to colour, Mia believes in tailoring tones to the mood and purpose of a space. “Colour doesn’t have to be bold to make an impact. Sometimes a soft, neutral hue can create just as much depth and interest.”
Partnering with Nood Co
Mia is a fan of Nood Co’s distinctive offerings, particularly their ability to bring colour into bathrooms. “Strong, saturated colours can be tricky to achieve in a bathroom, but your basins allow us to inject just the right amount of vibrancy. They’re stylish, dependable, and uniquely Australian.”
She’s especially drawn to Nood Co’s newer, more organic designs. “They complement our approach perfectly. We’re excited to continue specifying these pieces in our future projects.”
For Mia Lake, interior design is more than an aesthetic endeavour - it’s a way of bringing joy and ease into people’s lives. Whether she’s working on a heritage home, a modern apartment, or dreaming up her next design, her philosophy remains the same: beauty in every detail.
January 24, 2025
Nood Co