WELCOME HOME

Designing a space you truly love is about more than just aesthetics; it's about crafting an environment that feels uniquely yours. A home should reflect your personality, cater to your needs, and nurture your well-being. Thoughtful interior design blends beauty and functionality, making your space not only visually stunning but also a place of comfort and joy.

WRITTEN BY DONNA RISHTON-POTTER

Shantala Mack is an interior designer whose career has come full circle. Raised in Suffolk Park, her love for design was nurtured by her mother, a passionate renovator. After establishing a successful career in Melbourne and Sydney, Shantala has returned to her roots, living on the very street where she grew up. Shantala’s design ethos merges functionality with style, with a particular emphasis on creating spaces that feel personal, relaxed, and inviting.

Her recent project, The Shack at The Beach Hotel, showcases her ability to fuse local charm with modern design sensibilities. It's an extension of her love for creating spaces that feel like home, where every element has a story to tell.

SHANTALA’S GUIDE TO CREATING A SPACE YOU LOVE

1.REFRAME YOUR VIEW

Home is not just a physical space, but your personal sanctuary. A well-designed home should be a retreat, a place where you can relax and recharge, away from the chaos of daily life. Forget trends and what everyone else is doing; the best homes are those that make you feel welcome as soon as you step through the door. Spend some time thinking about what it is that make you feels cosy and grounded. Your home should be a space that nurtures your well-being and invites you to unwind, not another place filled with–tasks and endless chores. Keep your ideas simple and intentional.

2. FINDING STYLE WITHING YOUR STORY

Each piece of furniture and decor in your home tells a story—it could be an heirloom, a memento from your travels, or something that simply resonates with you. Beautiful, meaningful homes are places that have weaved your story together. It’s not about latest trends; it’s about looking at those important things, because it’s here your style lies. Whether it’s a hand-painted plate from a vacation or a vintage armchair passed down from your grandmother, these pieces create an emotional connection, making your home uniquely yours.

3. WHAT IS YOUR HOME TELLING YOU?

When designing a space, consider the bones of your home—the natural light, the flow of the rooms, and the surroundings. A welcoming atmosphere is often a fusion of both the house’s innate character and your personal story. These elements are the foundation that will guide your design decisions. I always start by understanding the layout of a space. Does the living room have a beautiful view of greenery? Is the kitchen bathed in natural light? These factors should directly influence how you position furniture, choose colours, and curate the overall feel of the room. Your home’s surroundings offer invaluable clues on how to bring the space to life. For example, a beachside home naturally calls for light, airy interiors that reflect the relaxed, breezy vibe of the outdoors.

4. CREATING CHARACTER

What feeling are you trying to create in your space? It’s essential to form a clear picture of what you want and choose pieces that resonate with you. Think about the items that bring you joy when you look at them, touch them, or are surrounded by them. Character comes from things that speak to you— whether it’s vintage furniture, natural textures, or a piece of art. I believe in creating spaces that are layered, comfortable, and full of warmth and authenticity. Bringing the outdoors in is also key—look at where your windows might get in the natural light or find ways to incorporate plants. Connecting with nature helps a space feel grounded and open. a retreat for both the body and mind.

5. PRIORITISE

Budgeting is crucial when designing a space. While it’s tempting to splurge or buy everything you like in the moment, looking at the space holistically and being strategic about where to allocate your resources, is really helpful. Invest in quality pieces that will last and make the most impact—like a high-quality sofa or custom lighting. Consider affordable items that can be swapped out seasonally for a fresh look. I always recommend creating interest with one standout piece, whether it’s a statement fabric for an armchair or a unique light fixture. The goal is to strike a balance between high-end investments and affordable choices, to create a cohesive, stylish result.

6. EDIT

Editing is such an important part of design. It's about knowing when enough is enough and resisting the urge to overfill a space just because something is on trend. Like fashion, we can love trends, but we don’t need everything in our wardrobes— or homes. Pay attention to what you have and be intentional about why it’s there. It’s not about adding more; it’s about refining and curating your space thoughtfully. Refining your style is all about being in tune with the whole space, putting things in when there’s a reason to, and knowing when to pull back and sometimes, take away. It’s definitely a skill we can acquire. This is also where an outside perspective, or a fresh pair of eyes, can really make a difference in creating a balanced, meaningful design.

shantalamack.com.au