the journal
interior design Ideas, inspiration, and the occasional deep dive.
The Studio Sio Journal is where we share the people, places, and perspectives that are shaping our work—from design history to studio updates, interviews, concepts, and the things we can’t stop thinking about.
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The Best Vintage and Antique Furniture Stores in Auckland
A guide to my favourite furniture antique and vintage stores in Tamaki Makaurau Auckland (the city I grew up in). They have already done the hard work for us all, digging through estate sales and questionable piles of stained furniture to find treasures. An extremely valuable middle man, that helps to create our layered and historic spaces.
How to Choose the Perfect Rug: Nathalia Gregores from Soline Imera
Nathalia Gregores, founder of rug company Soline Imera, on how custom and bespoke hand-knotted rugs are designed, made, and why working together with an interior designer changes what's possible for the client.
Lately at Studio Sio
A short update on Studio Sio, including filming My House My Castle and our new Home Collections Boxes.
About Her: Doctor Lillian Gilbreth, Inventor of the Kitchen
Learn how Dr Lillian Gilbreth, pioneer of ergonomics and modern kitchen design, inspired Cheaper by the Dozen and reshaped the way we live at home.
How To Open a Boutique Hotel: Abby Doyle from Buffalo Lodge
An interview with hotelier Abby Doyle on rebuilding the Coromandel BnB Buffalo Lodge—building a complete master plan, refining the guest experience, and making design decisions that supported both feeling and function.
In Practice: Studio Sio’s Favourite Figurative Hardware
A roundup of Studio Sio’s top ten favourite figurative hardware pieces—gestures towards hands, faces, animals, and more. These playful, sculptural details add wit, charm, and personality to any space.
About Her: Interior Designer Dorothy Draper
Dorothy Draper redefined interior design with her theatrical flair, bold colour choices, and unapologetic confidence. Her maximalist sensibility—oversized florals, glossy finishes, and grand architectural gestures—ushered in a new era of visual exuberance, setting the tone for modern luxury in America.
How to Open Your First Store: Kat Tua From Manaaki
An interview with fashion designer and Manaaki founder Kat Tua on building her first retail store—from choosing the right space to collaborating on interior design that truly works.
In Practice: Studio Sio’s Favourite Celestial Interior Objects
A curated edit of Studio Sio’s favorite celestial inspired interior objects - ranging from the historic, to handcrafted, to design-forward. From brass stars to cosmic wallpaper, these sun-and-moon pieces blend vintage inspiration with 2025 style. Interior design ideas grounded in craft and orbiting good taste.
About Her: textile artist Anni Albers
Anni Albers transformed weaving from traditional craft into modern art. Explore her groundbreaking textiles, Bauhaus legacy, and lasting influence on design.