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. Have it delivered direct to your inbox each month.
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.
In Practice: Studio Sio’s Favourite Florals
Discover ten of Studio Sio’s favourite floral design details, from sculptural rosettes to vintage-inspired lighting and hardware. These bold, unexpected floral inspired pieces bring texture, character, and a touch of romance to any space - definitely not your grandma’s flowers.
About Her: artist, designer, and architect Ray Eames
Ray Eames was a visionary whose vibrant creativity shaped the modernist movement of the 20th century. Known for her profound understanding of color, composition, and playful innovation, Ray significantly contributed to furniture, textiles, toymaking, interiors, graphic design, and film.
In Practice: Studio Sio's Favourite New Zealand Makers
Aotearoa New Zealand has always been stitched together with wool, timber, and number eight wire - resourceful, beautiful, quietly inventive. This curated edit looks into a new generation of makers who are shaping furniture and home goods with sustainable materials, thoughtful craft, and a modern point of view.
