Hannah Goldberg, founder and creative director of Melbourne-based custom furniture brand Zenn Design, draws inspiration from everywhere – from the elegant fine jewellery of local icons Sarah & Sebastian, to the minimal yet strong lines of fellow Melbourne lighting designer Ross Gardam and the brighter-than-bright artwork of Jonny Niesche. The threads that run through each of her sources of inspiration are timeless simplicity, clean lines and meticulous craftsmanship. Here, Goldberg shares the pieces that have captured her heart and mind. 

Volant 21 and 32 Chandelier by Ross Gardam

A true lighting masterpiece, the Volant 21 and 32 Chandelier by Melbourne-based product design studio Ross Gardam is elegantly balanced and beautifully minimal. It reflects everything I look for in great design. I’ve got my eye on this piece for my new home, currently under construction. It would make a stunning statement above the dining table.

Elba chair by Zenn Design

Elba is our newest dining chair and I can’t wait to customise a set for myself. Its lovely, minimal form and signature double-frame detail, with a fully upholstered inset seat, is what makes it stand out. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort, structure and visual lightness, lending a sense of understated elegance to both residential and commercial spaces.

CM921, polished graphite origami wall sculpture by Clementine Maconachie

I love the folded sculpture works of Sydney artist Clementine Maconachie. She has an incredible sense of form, which I appreciate. Her work has the ability to elevate any interior, regardless of the style of the space. We have one of her artworks in the Zenn office and it’s my absolute favourite piece. I’ve got my eye on another piece for my new home.

Jonny Niesche original artwork

A Jonny Niesche artwork has always been a dream piece for me – striking, fun, minimal and refreshingly different. I’m not hugely into art, but his style fits my aesthetic perfectly. He brings an exuberant personal touch to his work and it shows in everything he creates. You always know when it’s his.

Edition I AKI x Zenn bed frame collaboration

Created in collaboration with Melbourne interior architecture studio AKI, which is also female-led, Edition I is one of my favourite bed designs in our collection. I love how it feels both grand, bold and eye-catching yet minimal. The curved form is inspired by contemporary architecture, blending soft, modern lines with a refined, luxurious feel. It’s a standout piece that brings a sense of balance and elegance to any space.

Jewellery by Sarah & Sebastian 

I mean, who doesn’t love Sarah & Sebastian? Their brand is a consistent source of inspiration with their thoughtful design, beautifully crafted pieces and campaigns that bring their vision to life. I find myself scrolling through their Instagram weekly. It’s more than just jewellery –  it’s a refined and elevated shopping experience that truly resonates.

Ben Mazey ceramic art

A white ceramic Flag wall art/sculpture by Ben Mazey is definitely on my wishlist for my home. I can already picture it hanging in the entrance. This kind of hand-formed artwork perfectly matches my minimal design style. What I love most is how unique and beautifully artisanal each piece is. No two are ever the same.

St. Agni woven large tote

The ultimate oversized bag for absolutely everything. I’m especially loving this St Agni bag as a potential mum bag since I’m heading back into baby life soon. It’s spacious enough to carry everything for both baby and work, looks amazing, and has a great price point too. Plus, the plum and chocolate colours are perfect for my winter palette.

Linetta table lamp by Hannes Peer for 6AM

Every piece from Milan design studio 6AM is absolutely flawless. I’m constantly drawn to their fresh, contemporary aesthetic, rooted in traditional Murano glassmaking. Their glass objects, lights and sculptures are insanely beautiful and I can easily imagine their pieces fitting perfectly into any space. I have so many of their pieces on my wishlist.

Näbb armchair by Mattias Stenberg for Nola

I recently came across the Näbb armchair designed by Mattias Stenberg for Swedish furniture design company Nola. The effortless pairing of leather and steel in the Näbb armchair is striking yet understated perfection. I love how the refined, minimalist steel frame complements the relaxed, slouched leather seat, making it the perfect occasional chair for any space.

Related: For more design inspiration from Australia’s leading interior and product designers, check out our Designer Selects series.