For our Definitive Design Series, Kathryn Robson, principal architect of Melbourne-based architecture and interior design practice Robson Rak, shared her must-have products for 2025—from furniture and lighting to kitchen appliances.
Our ‘Definitive Design Products’ series was first featured inside est magazine issue 56: ‘Living Connection’.
01. Miyazaki DC10 by Inoda & Sveje
Designed by Japanese-Danish design duo Inoda & Sveje, the Miyazaki DC10 chair draws on advanced CNC technology to achieve its sculptural form. For Robson, “it’s a timeless beauty that’s superbly comfortable and perfect for long dinner parties at home.”
02. Molteni&C Paul
“I adore its sleek, timeless lines,” Robson says of the Paul sofa by Belgian designer Vincent Van Duysen for Molteni. Defined by generous proportions and distinctive seams, “it also comes in an extra-deep version for lazy weekends!”
03. Cassina Wink Armchair
The Cassina Wink armchair by Japanese designer Toshiyuki Kita adapts to the body thanks to its contoured form and plush padding. “The colour combination and seating configurations are endlessly fun,” Robson says.
Kathryn Robson and Chris Rak, principal architect and principal interior architect of Robson Rak | Photography courtesy of Robson Rak
04. CDK Stone Monreale Marble
When it comes to stone, Robson points to Australian-based CDK’s Italian-sourced Monreale marble, noting, “the pastel colours are heavenly.” Marked by distinctive breccia veining, it’s a versatile choice for everything from kitchens to outdoor spaces.
05. Flos Luminator
According to Robson, “there should be no need for ceiling lights” when the Flos Luminator by Italian design brothers Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni is in use. Fitted with a reflector bulb, it “throws the most glorious light into a room.”
06. Bauwerk Colour River
Australian-made Bauwerk lime wash has Robson’s loyalty as a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive finishes. “We’re loving the Bauwerk lime wash paint where we don’t have the budget for polished plaster,” she says.
Terra Firma House by Robson Rak | Photography by Mark Roper
07. Poltrona Frau Kyoto Coffee Table
“The craftsmanship used to construct this table is stunning,” Robson says. “And it’s the perfect height.” Designed by Italian architect Gianfranco Frattini for Poltrona Frau, the Kyoto coffee table features Canaletto walnut inserts joined at 45 degrees to create its distinctive top.
08. Byzantine Design Ming Green Tumbled Tiles
Robson keeps it simple on tiles: “Ming Green Tumbled tiles by Byzantine Tiles.” Australian-made and offered in various cuts, shapes and sizes, their 10mm thickness suits both indoor and outdoor use.
09. Produzione Privata Macchina Minima N.8
Robson spotlights the Mondoluce Macchina Minima No. 8 pendant by Italian architect Michele de Lucchi for more than its repositionable arms. “As he said in 1991, ‘in minimality it is easier to recognise the quality of form and matter, because minimal refers to an idea of art, because art is in Mankind,’” she quotes.
Terra Firma House by Robson Rak | Photography by Mark Roper
10. Vola Tapware Range
“I love the timeless design of Vola tapware, even if plumbers hate it!” Robson says. With authentic Danish design and craftsmanship, Vola has led modern tapware innovation since 1968, offering pieces for kitchens, bathrooms and laundries.
11. Wolf M Series
When asked about her go-to oven brand, Robson answers simply: “Wolf—they just work!” In particular, she highlights the latest M Series for its innovative, time-saving features. “It’s more minimal, which suits our style, too.”
12. Gaggenau Refrigerator Range
“The quality is superb, and it really does keep your food fresh for longer,” Robson says of the German-made Gaggenau brand. With its new Vario cooling system that safely preserves food for extended periods, it’s an easy choice for her.




