Cover Story
Homegrown Heroes: Customising your dream abode with Zenn Design
The local design firm loved by some of your favourite influential Australian women.
5 Minute Read
Harrolds is continuously expanding its community to encompass more than just fashion. From our esteemed Harrolds Racing Team to our integrated projects with neighbouring art institutions and university programs, our guiding philosophy is to build a network of like-minded, passion-driven, inevitably stylish people that grow our family.
This is exactly why we’ve launched an editorial series for The Journal, aptly named ‘Homegrown Heroes’. Consider this a space to uncover (or better get to know) some local institutions, businesses and organisations that inspire us to evolve, learn and tell new stories. Here, we catch up with Hannah Goldberg, Director of Melbourne’s leading upholstery and design firm, Zenn Design.
Our guiding philosophy is to build a network of like-minded, passion-driven, inevitably stylish people that grow our family.
Zenn Design specialises in luxurious handcrafted interiors, from custom bedheads to soft furnishings, upholstered furniture with flair, and all things fabric. Their home adornments are designed and built in Melbourne, comprising locally-sourced materials that are both ethical and traceable. Every piece is finished by hand, finessed with meticulous standards of product innovation, and seen to every door with impeccable customer service. Just look to some of Hannah’s recent clients (insert: Jacqui Felgate, Martha Kalifatidis and Lucy Feagins here), and you’ll know she means business.
Naturally, Hannah’s workwear wardrobe matches Zenn Design’s quintessentially sharp and cleverly-crafted hallmarks, summoning the likes of Wardrobe.NYC and Alexander Wang from Harrolds’ fashion trove. We’re about to delve into her innate style instincts, from personal everyday outfitting to curating a client’s customised home. If your 2023 Pinterest ‘interiors’ board needs some zhuzhing, keep reading.
For those unacquainted, walk us through the Zenn Design story from iteration to now…
The journey to launching Zenn Design was one that evolved quite organically. Starting out as more of a passion and hobby back in March 2020 (aka, pandemic era), Zenn Design was a business operating solely within the window furnishing and textiles industry. Fast forward, and it’s developed into so much more than what we could have ever imagined.
My family has a long history in both the soft furnishing, window furnishings and textile industries, passing down a real passion and desire for fabrics and furniture. Over time, I’ve developed a deep love of the craftsmanship and creativity inherent in this world of work, and I can’t think of anything else I’d love to be doing.
After working directly with clients within my family business, I noticed a gap in the market for locally-made, high quality, sustainable custom furniture, and thus Zenn Design was born. It’s been a big couple of years, and we’ve grown quite quickly (which has been really humbling). I attribute this success to our extensive industry knowledge, dedication customer service and locally-made focus.
What’s one of the most exciting launches on your agenda this year (if you can give us a teaser)?
Get ready for the launch of our highly anticipated custom upholstered ‘Ready for Bed’ collection, spanning three of our best-selling bed frame designs. These will be available for customisation in a variety of selected fabrics, without the long wait times.
What are some of the most notable projects you’ve worked on since launch?
We take pride in being entrusted by Australia’s finest architects and interior designers. Working alongside reputable and notable designers daily, our favourite projects include some along the Mornington Peninsula, including Director of The Design Files Lucy Feagins’ beautiful beach shack.
Who are some of your most notable clientele and what did you help them create?
At Zenn Design, every client is notable and important to us. We are honored to work with highly influential Australian women, including @kayla_itsines, @jacquifelgate, @marthak, @rachaelwatts, @dotandpop, and @brooke.blurton, who trust us with their custom furniture and upholstery needs.
In terms of aesthetics or hallmarks of your design process, what are some recurring themes, styles or tendencies Zenn Design is known for?
At the forefront of our design philosophy is functionality, quality and a polished minimalist aesthetic that embodies the Australian lifestyle. Our focus on local manufacturing is well known, and our signature style includes a balance of sleek lines and curves for a truly unique touch.
Do you think your sense of fashion is intertwined with your eye for interior design? How/why?
In essence, my personal style — which is pared-back, casual and minimal with a wintery palette — is intricately intertwined with my interior design aesthetics.
Where exactly do you find ideas, suppliers and inspiration for your bespoke designs? Tell us about the process of sourcing materials for a one-of-a-kind project.
My inspiration comes from a variety of sources, from worldly designs to my everyday surroundings. Whether it’s scrolling through Instagram, taking a walk along the beach, or shopping at the grocery store, I find inspiration in all aspects of life. I’m also inspired by the pared-back Australian lifestyle, being design that is clean, functional, and guided by quality. My main goal has always been to create enduring, sustainable and locally-made furniture that will surpass trends and instead anchor the mood of a space.
Can we ask what particular Harrolds-stocked designers you’re coveting right now and why?
I love Alexander McQueen’s minimal designs, always. A few favourites have to be the Watercolor Graffiti Piquet Shirt (the perfect work shirt) and the White Oversized Platform Sneakers (the perfect platform sneaker for short girls). Cosying up with an Acne Studios Lilac Fairah X Crewneck Sweatshirt will be my go-to for autumn — the ultimate casual-but-tailored sweatshirt.
What role does passion play in what you do? And how do you balance the ‘love’ of your craft with being an efficient businesswoman?
Passion is my essential driving force behind my successful business and everything I do. The love for my craft motivates me to pursue my goals, even when they seem unachievable. Really, this deep desire to work in the design sphere helps me overcome obstacles and continuously enhance Zenn Design’s offering.
Being an efficient businesswoman also requires a balance between passion and practicality. To achieve this balance, it’s essential to have a clear vision of your goals, develop a well-organised plan, and stay focused on the big picture while also paying attention to the details. It’s important to have a strong work ethic, stay disciplined, and be open to learning and adapting to new challenges and opportunities.
What’s your hypothetical work-day outfit from Harrolds?
I love my oversized shirts, so a Wardrobe.NYC black oversized offering paired with a mini black skirt would be the go. Then, a crisp pair of the latest Alexander McQueen white sneakers are my footwear choice for height and comfort — I’m a short girl! Pair this look with a simple Rylan Black Soft Baguette Bag and the Jacques Marie Mage Gold Stellar Sunglasses, and we’re ready to conquer the day.
