Journal

The Edit with Miriam Fanning | Mim Design

What Miriam Fanning brings into a space is never incidental. Each piece is chosen for its craft, the intention behind its making, and the way it will settle with time. After twenty-five years at the helm of Mim Design, that discernment has only deepened.

The Edit is an ongoing dialogue with the designers who shape how we live. Each feature is an invitation to look a little closer at the thinking behind the spaces that surround us. The conversation continues.

"Longevity is a core principle in our design ethos"

Mariposa 3 Seater Sofa

Helena Floor Lamp

$31726

Crown Dining Chair

$3265

Rey Counter Stool

$1960

Based in Melbourne, Mim Design works across residential and commercial projects. Since its founding in 2000, the studio has grown into one of the most prominent practices in Australian interior design, most recently honoured with the 2025 IDEA Gold Medal. Its foundation, though, is something harder to award: a way of composing a room where every element, whether custom-designed, uniquely crafted or carefully sourced, carries both purpose and presence.

What role does craftsmanship play in your work, particularly in balancing custom-designed pieces with sourced elements?

"I find craftsmanship is integral to our practice as interior designers, allowing our creative spirit to be realised. Custom-designed pieces adapt and respond to the character of the space and the individual needs of the client; heritage or architectural gestures can be integrated into functional forms, or motifs from the landscape are translated through fabrics. Our studio’s curatorial strategy melds original in-house designs, uniquely crafted selections and sourced pieces, where each element is expressive and holds purpose.

Longevity is a core principle in our design ethos. Interior additions are chosen for enduring qualities in their craftsmanship, materials or silhouettes. These considerations ensure the project integrates an informed approach to enhance the interiors and evolve with clients’ lifestyles.

I also value the marks of originators – seeing the thought and intentionality behind objects expressed in organic forms or hand-crafted material details. This level of consideration articulated in unique pieces reveals the design process and enhances their character."

Tai Hen Bookshelf

$35685

Pendolo Pendant IV

$12810

Vega A Chair

$3395

Olivia Dining Table

Could you share your connection to some of your selections?

Tai Hen Bookcase, De La Espada - "Designed by Nichetto, the Tai collection masterfully balances function and sculpture. While inherently practical, the piece transcends its utility to become a sculptural statement, creating a sense of visual theatre within a space. Its whimsical and playful character adds a layer of personality, bringing both lightness and intrigue to the overall design."

Vega A Chair & Vega B Chair, De La Espada - "Designed by Anthony Guerrée, the Vega A and B Chair mimic the orientation of the crescent moon, expressed through their distinctive backrests. Each piece explores a refined balance of contrasts, and when paired within a table setting, they establish a dynamic visual rhythm that departs from the conventional. Crafted from timber, the chairs take on a totemic quality, with a confident three-legged base supporting a sculptural, expressive form."

Olivia Dining Table, Studio Bastiras - "Designed by John Bastiras, the Olivia Dining Table is an enduring, considered and authentic piece that fosters social connection. Defined by its minimal architectural lines, the design is refined and beautifully resolved. Each table is handcrafted, celebrating the individuality of the material and the nuances of workmanship. Locally made, it's a piece we love specifying, bringing a sense of our immediate design neighbourhood into projects in an authentic and meaningful way."

Pendolo Pendant IV, Workstead - "This pendant is defined by a design philosophy of 'implied kineticism and monumental simplicity'. Inspired by the mobiles of Alexander Calder, the collection fosters a strong sense of movement. The balance and weightlessness of this piece portrays a 'balancing act'. A combination of sharp and softened finishes introduces a utilitarian yet domestic sensibility, further enriched by the use of natural burlap linen paired with aged-metal hardware."

Looking ahead, are there any ideas, approaches, or directions you’re interested in exploring further within your work?

"More of our work is integrating the customisation of individual furniture pieces. The ability to artistically personalise furnishings using texture, proportion, scale and sculpture crafts a truly authentic design for the client, tailored to their own home.

I love the exploration of metal as an interior material; combined with finishes that refract and interplay with light, revealing lustre and a visual movement of colour and texture."