Speaking with Melbourne-based interior designer Mardi Doherty of Studio Doherty, we uncover her 12 definitive design products for 2025—ranging from furniture and lighting to materials, fixtures and kitchen appliances.
Our ‘Definitive Design Products’ series was first featured inside est magazine issue 56: ‘Living Connection’.
01. Moroso Mathilda Chair
“It can do no wrong,” Doherty says of the Moroso Mathilda chair designed by Spanish architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. With its signature double-trestle design, she adds, “It’s a great addition to both residential and commercial applications.”
02. Artedomus Cristanza Quartzite
When it comes to marble, Doherty highlights Australian surface brand Artedomus, particularly their Cristanza quartzite. “We love the depth of colour and texture, with bold veins that add a sense of movement and intrigue to the surface,” she says.
03. Moroso Mark Side Table
Designed by American designer and architect Marc Thorpe, the Moroso Mark side table is crafted from a single sheet of powder-coated steel. Doherty describes it as “practical, understated and able to slide over any sofa or armchair with ease.”
Interior designer Mardi Doherty of Studio Doherty | Portrait by Studio Doherty
04. Zanotta Za:Za Sofa
The Zanotta Za:Za sofa by Venetian design duo Zaven Studio is crafted entirely from recycled and recyclable materials. “We love this sofa for how it anchors the room with its bold, sculptural form, while offering effortless comfort and versatility with its range of materials,” Doherty says.
05. Ingo Maurer Floatation Suspension Lamp
Designed by German industrial designer Ingo Maurer, the Floatation Suspension lamp is composed of layered Japanese paper shades. “The delicate balance of elegance and playfulness, with a refined design and a hint of bold red, brings both warmth and eclecticism to any room,” Doherty says.
06. Artedomus Arute Rinen Square
Made in Japan, the Artedomus Arute Rinen Square range features subtly raised dotted surfaces. “They’re lovely handmade ceramic tiles with a beautiful variation in the colourways,” Doherty says.
Elonera House by Studio Doherty | Photography by Sean Fennessy
07. Sarah Nedovic Monument Wall Light
“It has a beautifully sculptural ceramic form, is handmade locally and brings a bold, artistic presence to any wall,” Doherty says of the Monument wall light by Australian ceramic and lighting designer Sarah Nedovic. “It’s perfect when used in a series to show its unique patterns and textures.”
08. Cassina AEO Armchair
Originally designed by Italian designer Paolo Deganello in 1973, the Cassina AEO armchair evolves its predecessor with experimental fabrics and a tubular-steel frame. For Doherty, “we’re drawn to the unconventional form of the chair and love the mix of materials and upholstery.”
09. v.brokkr Entry Bust Pull
The v.brokkr Entry Bust pull is designed by Australian artist Ned Vernon, who was trained as a Silversmith and worked under Australian and German masters. “We love all of his designs,” Doherty says. “We’re inspired by his unique and playful approach that sets his pieces apart from other door hardware suppliers.”
Brook House by Studio Doherty & Therefore Architecture | Photography by Dave Kulesza
10. Brodware Nanobar Kitchen Set
For tapware, Doherty looks for four qualities: “high-quality, sleek, timeless and Australian-made”. Australian hardware brand Brodware takes the cake with its Nanobar Kitchen set. “Its simple design has a linear form without compromising function, plus it has a great range of finishes,” she says.
11. V-ZUG Combair V4000 60P Oven
When it comes to ovens, Doherty is a fan of Swiss appliance manufacturer V-ZUG. In particular, she favours pairing the Combair V4000 60P and CombairSteamer V6000 60 ovens, with both offering automatic EasyCook functions.
12. Fisher & Paykel Series 11 Integrated Refrigerator Freezer
“We like the fact that they’re a local New Zealand brand,” Doherty prefaces about the New Zealand-founded appliance company Fisher & Paykel. Favouring the Series 11 Integrated refrigerator freezer in particular, it offers advanced cooling technology and energy efficiency.
Elonera House by Studio Doherty | Photography by Sean Fennessy









