When a design aficionado redesigns their own home, it’s a personal masterpiece. But what happens when a seasoned furniture industry insider, like GlobeWest co-founder Stephen Mendel, collaborates with an interior designer to reimagine their space? The result, as seen in Mendel’s Melbourne home, is a fascinating study in balance—between professional expertise and personal expression, between refinement and transformation. Personally, I think this project highlights a rarely discussed dynamic in interior design: the nuanced collaboration between a designer and a client who already possesses a deep understanding of the field.
The Art of Refinement, Not Revolution
One thing that immediately stands out is how Simone Haag approached this project not as a blank canvas but as a rich tapestry waiting to be rewoven. The home, originally a 1960s dwelling, had already undergone a significant renovation in 2015, giving it a strong modernist identity. Haag’s task wasn’t to overhaul but to refine—a detail that I find especially interesting. In my opinion, this is where the project’s brilliance lies. Instead of imposing a new vision, Haag worked within the existing framework, layering in texture, art, and custom pieces to elevate the space.
What many people don’t realize is that refinement can be just as challenging as transformation. It requires a keen eye for what works and what doesn’t, and the courage to edit rather than add. Haag’s decision to repurpose underutilized spaces, like the whisky room and the bar, is a masterclass in this. By introducing patterned wallpaper, softer textiles, and a more intimate palette, she turned these areas into focal points of the home. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a perfect example of how small interventions can create big impact.
The Role of Art and Texture
Art is the soul of this home, and what makes this particularly fascinating is how Haag used the Mendels’ extensive collection as a starting point. Pieces from Dalbo Suarimbawa, Marise Maas, and Nina Rom aren’t just decorations—they’re anchors that inform the design of each room. From my perspective, this raises a deeper question: How often do we see art as a functional element of design rather than an afterthought?
Texture, too, plays a starring role. The living room, with its statement ceiling wallpaper, plush carpet, and curated art wall, is a testament to Haag’s ability to create depth and warmth. What this really suggests is that texture isn’t just about tactile appeal—it’s about creating a sensory experience that draws you in. The use of GlobeWest pieces, like the Legacy dining table and Pippa Stripe coffee table, adds a layer of familiarity, while custom fabrics and artisanal touches introduce moments of surprise.
Collaboration as a Creative Catalyst
Working with clients who are deeply versed in design could be intimidating, but Haag turned it into an opportunity. She leaned into the Mendels’ knowledge while gently challenging their ideas through materiality and customization. This dynamic, in my opinion, is what sets this project apart. It’s not just a designer executing a vision; it’s a dialogue between two parties who bring unique perspectives to the table.
What many people don’t realize is that the best design often emerges from collaboration, not control. The Mendels’ renewed connection to their home is a testament to this. The space doesn’t just reflect their work in the industry—it tells their personal story. If you take a step back and think about it, this is the ultimate goal of interior design: to create a space that feels authentically yours.
Broader Implications for Design
This project isn’t just about a beautifully redesigned home; it’s a reflection of broader trends in interior design. The emphasis on personalization, the blending of old and new, and the thoughtful use of art and texture are all part of a larger shift toward more meaningful, lived-in spaces. From my perspective, this is a reaction to the sterile, cookie-cutter designs that have dominated the industry for too long.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Haag managed to balance familiarity with surprise. This is something we’re seeing more of in design—a desire for spaces that feel both comforting and exciting. It’s a delicate balance, but when done right, as in this case, it creates a home that’s not just beautiful but deeply personal.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on Stephen Mendel’s reimagined Melbourne home, I’m struck by how much it has to teach us about the art of collaboration and refinement. It’s a reminder that design isn’t just about creating something new—it’s about honoring what already exists while pushing boundaries. Personally, I think this project is a blueprint for how designers and clients can work together to create spaces that are both timeless and deeply personal.
What this really suggests is that the future of interior design lies in these kinds of partnerships—where expertise meets intuition, and where every detail tells a story. If you take a step back and think about it, isn’t that what we all want from our homes? A space that feels like us, but better.
