Chatting to Melbourne-based architect Clare Cousins as part of our ongoing series, we reveal her 12 definitive design products for 2025—including furniture, lighting, fixtures, materials and kitchen appliances.
Our ‘Definitive Design Products’ series was first featured inside est magazine issue 56: ‘Living Connection’.
01. B&B Italia Le Bambole ’07 Sofa
The Le Bambole ’07 sofa by Italian architect Mario Bellini is constructed from foam-filled, pillow-like volumes. “It has a classic 1970s Italian shape,” Cousins says. “It’s also extremely comfortable, especially now that there is a deep version.”
02. Louis Poulsen AJ Floor Light
Danish designer Arne Jacobsen designed the Louis Poulsen AJ floor light for Copenhagen’s SAS Royal Hotel in 1957, with a conical, downward-directed shade, adjustable head and weighted base. In particular, Cousins highlights its “variety of colours, simple shape and adjustable head”.
03. Grazia&Co Ivy Coffee Table
Spotlighting her own design, the Grazia&Co Ivy coffee table is Australian-made with three cylindrical metal legs finished in powder coat. “Endless options are available, with an optional marble, timber or glass top and various leg colours,” Cousins explains.
Founder of architecture firm Clare Cousins Architects, Clare Cousins | Portrait by Jessica Lindsay
04. Grazia&Co Featherston Hob Carver Chair
The Grazia&Co Featherston Hob Carver chair, designed by Australian interior designer Mary Featherston, combines a vegetable-dyed saddle leather seat over an American ash timber frame. “It’s Australian-made with a great buckle detail,” Cousins notes.
05. Nagoya Mosaic-Tile Co Kayo Shiro
Inspired by the traditional ceramics style for Japanese Sado, the Nagoya Mosaic-Tile Co Kayo Shiro is crafted by artisans using traditional Japanese techniques, ensuring no two tiles are identical. Cousins describes them as “classic Japanese tiles with a lovely brown speckle.”
06. Vitra Potence Wall Lamp
The Vitra Potence wall lamp by French designer Jean Prouvé combines a pivoting tubular steel arm with an adjustable shade and an oakwood handle. “Its wall offset allows you to easily move the light source around the room,” Cousins says.
Stable & Cart House by Clare Cousins Architects | Photography by Sharyn Cairns
07. Halliday + Baillie HB2235 Round Profile Brass 300mm D Pull Handle
Melbourne-based design studio Halliday + Baillie’s HB2235 Round Profile Brass 300mm D pull handle is crafted in New Zealand from solid brass, developing a natural patina over time. Cousins adds, “It ages well over time and is a substantial handle for doors and joinery”.
08. Dulux Natural White
According to Cousins, Australian paint brand Dulux is her “go-to paint supplier for its extensive variety of colours”. Providing finishes for walls, doors, trims and exteriors, its paints are low-VOC, water-based and formulated for durability across a range of climates.
09. Grazia&Co Featherston Scape Armchair
Designed by Australian furniture designers Grant & Mary Featherston, the Grazia&Co Featherston Scape armchair features a sprung timber frame and supportive leather or fabric upholstery. Cousins calls it an “iconic Australian chair that’s great for home or the office.”
Garden Room House by Clare Cousins Architects | Photography by Tess Kelly
10. La Marzocco Linea
Italian espresso manufacturer La Marzocco’s Linea integrates stainless steel construction with dual boilers and precise temperature control for reliable performance. For Cousins, “it’s essential for both home and the office.”
11. Wolf 76cm Contemporary M Series Convection Steam Oven
German appliance manufacturer Wolf’s 76 cm M Series Convection Steam oven combines two cooking modes with precise temperature control, allowing versatile roasting, baking and hybrid steam preparation. Cousins calls its steam-combi function “a game-changer”.
12. Sub-Zero Classic Series
American appliance brand Sub-Zero’s Classic Series uses cooling technology, integrated dispensers and precise temperature management for amplified food preservation. “It keeps food fresher for longer while having a semi-commercial appearance,” Cousins says.
Stable & Cart House by Clare Cousins Architects | Photography by Sharyn Cairns






