“The challenge, as always, was to design a home that is detailed but unassuming at the same time. To create a space that is inviting, calm and timeless.”  - Lani Fixler

The Lovelight team feels honoured to work with so many ingenious designers and creatives as part of Melbourne's vibrant architectural scene. This month we chatted to Lani Fixler from Lani Fixler Studios who is the perfect example of an Architect who doesn’t just design structures but creates homes for her clients which are sanctuaries of calm, comfort, and timeless elegance. Specializing in residential architecture and interior design, the studio has mastered the art of crafting spaces that resonate with both contemporary sensibilities and classic allure.

Seymour Road, one of their recent projects, was always envisioned to be inviting, calm, and timeless. “The client's brief was to achieve a flow and communication between open family spaces while having private spaces for different family members to retreat. they wanted a home which was detailed but unassuming at the same time.” So the team set about designing a home that fostered open family interactions while allowing personal retreats for individual family members. The emphasis was on creating a seamless flow between spaces, nurturing a strong connection to the landscape, and maximising every opportunity for natural light.

The design inspiration for the house was drawn from mid-century architecture, renowned for its emphasis on clean lines and integration with nature. This influence is evident in the juxtaposition of strong architectural lines with soft interior materials, creating a balanced and harmonious environment.

Window furnishings, a critical element in any interior design, were carefully selected by Lani Fixler herself. “The interior finishes – a medley of block work, polished concrete, marble, timber, and slate – necessitated window treatments that would complement and soften these robust materials.” The chosen sheer curtains, with their warm caramel tones, strike a perfect balance, adding a layer of warmth and softness to the space.

Fixler approaches curtains and window furnishings as integral components of a space. Her process involves considering both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the curtains, ensuring they complement the room's materials and serve their purpose effectively. This starts right from the design development stage, Fixler believes in incorporating window furnishings early in the project, ensuring they seamlessly integrate into the overall design.

Among the many features of this house, the entry courtyard stands out. Its design fosters a profound connection with the landscape, offering serene outlooks and immersing the inhabitants in a tranquil embrace of nature.

Reflecting on current trends in architecture and interior design, Fixler notes a shift towards a bolder use of colour, especially in curtains. “More people are now viewing curtains and sheers as essential elements of interior design, leading to a rise in coloured and textured fabrics.”

In essence, Lani Fixler Studio’s approach is one that marries functionality with aesthetic beauty, creating spaces that are not just lived in but felt and experienced. Their designs go beyond mere visual appeal, offering a sanctuary where light, landscape, and life come together and are celebrated by the inhabitants.

Profiling Lani Fixler | Seymour House | Lani Fixler Studio