Category: Design

  • Not Fearless. But Courageous.

    Not Fearless. But Courageous.

    Fearlessness.
    A MYTH?

    Courage? Is lived.

    “I’m definitely not fearless. But I am courageous. It’s not something I wake up with – I have to choose it. Somedays, more often than others. But I learnt long ago, fear doesn’t go away – I just had to find the courage to keep going in the face of grief, doubt, reinvention.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Courage Is Not The ABSENCE Of Fear.

    I’ve felt varying degrees of fear in all sorts of situations – airports, boardrooms, hospitals. I’ve felt it in my bones. I’ve felt it before sending the text, the email. Making the call. Starting again. Walking away. Small things, big things – all sorts of things. Over time, I have been fearful of many things – I am human.

    And I’ve felt fear when things were good, too. When life was full and love was all around and it scared me because…what if I lost it?

    So no – I’m not ‘fearless’. But I try not to let fear ever take over and stop me from doing what I need – or want to do. I also don’t live in a state of fear – something I am incredibly grateful for.

    Fear – it visits me.

    The word, the context, the emotion and the meaning behind it, truly fascinates me – as often it is just thrown around very one dimensionally without thought or care for what it actually means to some people.

    Like you, I have to face things I fear all the time. How do I do that? By finding courage.

    I’ve just stopped pretending that ‘fearlessness’ is the goal. But courage? That’s real. That’s lived. And that’s what midlife is asking of us now as we embark on our next chapter.

    Fear Doesn’t Mean You’re WEAK.

    We’re told from a young age to be brave. To stand tall. To not cry. And often, when we learned how to find the courage and face a fear – we grew as a result. Fear can be one of our greatest teachers. I am not ashamed at all to admit that I have many fears – some I have faced and some that I still have, and continue to face as they arise. There is absolutely no shame or weakness in that whatsoever. In fact, it’s probably saved me in some situations.

    Nowadays, however, that messaging has gotten slicker. More forceful.

    Be fearless.
    Be unstoppable.
    Be more.

    It all seems motivational on the surface. And often, for some (and in the right context) – it can be. But quietly, sometimes it can make us feel like we’re somehow lacking if fear still visits us – if we still second-guess ourselves at 45, or 51, or 62.

    If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve lived through a few lifetimes within your life.

    You’ve done brave things.
    You’ve done hard things.

    You’ve achieved wonderful things.
    You’ve endured times of heartbreak, change, reinvention, caregiving, letting go.

    You’ve had hope and you more than likely, have felt fear – in varying degrees.

    You’ve needed to find and trust your courage – quiet, imperfect, evolving – and that it is more than enough.

    Because it is.

    What COURAGE Has Looked Like in My Life

    It didn’t always look bold. And sometimes it did. Most of the time though, I was vulnerable and had no idea what to do.

    Somedays it looked like crying in the car, pulling it together, and walking into the meeting anyway.

    Other times it was hearing news that you never want to hear and facing something that was indescribable, but there was no other option but to deal with it. Often, it looked like saying “I’m not sure yet.” Or “I’m sorry, I was wrong.”

    Sometimes, it looked like silence. And sometimes, it looked like speaking the truth that made my voice shake. None of that was fearless.

    Point was – I felt the fear and then had to find the courage to face it. Time after time.

    The Courageous MIDDLE

    We’re not in a season of proving. We’re in a season of choosing. And that, takes courage.

    It can be messy and quiet. Hard and rewarding. It’s where we:

    • Reclaim our voice.
    • Make peace with our body.
    • Stop apologising for our ambition – or our rest.
    • Let go of roles – and people – that no longer fit with our life.
    • Begin again, even when it’s not guaranteed to work.
    • Learn to be vulnerable in life, in relationships and in leadership.
    • Stand up for what we believe in.
    • Set boundaries.

    Courage Doesn’t Always SHOUT.

    I believe, one of the great shifts that happens as we age, is the ‘shedding’ of the need of ‘performance’. We’re far more interested in being true.

    And fearlessness? Often, nowadays that’s become a performance. Just a bunch of words thrown at us to make us pretend we are something we are not. Some of the most incredibly strong, courageous people I know – who have faced insane adversities in life – still openly admit that they have fears, to this day. But they lived through it with courage and bravery – and continue to do so.

    Courage is a choice and a practice. It’s often deeply private. It’s often unseen. And it doesn’t demand (or require), applause.

    So now more than ever, I consciously choose to just be present in life. And that means welcoming in the full range of emotions – including fear.

    But it doesn’t sit in the drivers seat – it’s just a passenger in my car of life.

    Rippling waves create a soothing rhythm as the sun dips low on the horizon, casting warm hues over the water’s surface in a captivating display of nature’s artistry.

    Acknowledge the fear.
    Walk anyway.

    maison 1973

    Courage doesn’t have to be loud. Just real.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • Dogma vs Dialogue vs Opinion — And Why It Matters

    Dogma vs Dialogue vs Opinion — And Why It Matters

    We don’t talk anymore.
    We DECLARE.

    Just because you said it, doesn’t mean you’re right.

    “This is a fascinating topic to me. I feel that dogma is when opinion gets so loud, it forgets how to listen. It’s the moment belief becomes a rulebook, and curiosity gets kicked out of the room. It’s the end of the conversation – not the beginning of one. There is a time and a place for everything. And not everything is dogma. And not every opinion is fact. The art of dialogue is crucial in our everyday lives.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Agree to disagree? Is that even a thing anymore?

    Welcome to the age of the mic drop. Where certainty on everything and everyone – is now our currency, and anyone who dares to disagree is instantly dismissed, dissected, or digitally obliterated. We seem to not want to really talk anymore? Instead, it feels as if everything is a declaration. And if you’re not clapping, you’re clearly the enemy.

    Somewhere along the way, we lost the art of respectful disagreement. We lost our appetite for nuance. We became afraid – or even allergic? – to not being right.

    What does this mean and what is going on? Let’s explore.

    It’s Everywhere Now

    It lives in social captions and podcast rants. It masquerades as moral superiority. It seems to punish curiosity and curious people?

    Dogma says, “I’m right. You’re wrong. End of story.” Dialogue, on the other hand, says, “Here’s what I think. What about you?”

    As Gen X women, we remember a different kind of conversation. One where people could sit across from each other with totally opposing views and still share dessert. We weren’t so threatened by contradiction. We knew that opinions didn’t define the person – or at least, they didn’t have to.

    But now? Opinions are treated as identities. And any challenge to your viewpoint is seen as a threat to your entire sense of self.

    But here’s a truth: just because you make a point, doesn’t necessarily make it right. And just because someone doesn’t agree with you, doesn’t make them wrong. It’s a harsh truth for some, but it is a truth nevertheless.

    We’ve confused having a platform with having the last word. We’ve mistaken confidence for correctness. We’ve equated volume with value.

    Here’s a thought to ponder – if your belief system can’t handle being questioned, maybe it’s not a belief system – it’s a performance?

    It takes strength to hold space for views that challenge your own. It takes grace to say, “I see it differently – but I still respect you.” It takes maturity to let the moment pass without needing to win it.

    This is happening everywhere: families divided over dinner, 24/7 with virtual strangers online, some people are just opting out of conversation altogether because it’s just not worth the backlash. People’s general interest in just simply seeking to understand – being stifled by those with louder opinions.

    But silence isn’t the answer. And neither is shouting louder.

    So What is?

    It’s curiosity. It’s emotional maturity. It’s being okay with not being right. It’s knowing when to walk away, not to prove a point but to preserve your peace. It’s understanding that some things in life hold a lot of uncertainty and with that, there needs to be some understanding.

    It’s becoming so rare (particularly online) to find and meet people where you feel completely at ease with sharing a thought, an opinion, a viewpoint, a question – and you know that it will be met with a considered response, not a defensive one. A dialogue. We can remember a time, where this was how we just functioned in life – what happened?

    At maison 1973, we believe in deeper conversations, challenging the ‘status quo’, asking and really listening. There will always be discomfort in our paths to growth – always. We never stop growing and evolving – regardless of our age. We believe you can disagree with someone and still love or respect them (or both). We like to learn and embrace change. And with change comes uncertainty – and that’s part of life. We’ve lived through many decades, we know that change is inevitable.

    You don’t need to shout to be sure of what you believe. You don’t need to be right to be worthy. And you don’t need everyone to agree with you to lead with confidence.

    Let’s bring back nuance. Let’s bring back listening. Let’s bring back the beauty of I see it differently, and that’s okay.

    Because disagreement doesn’t need to mean the end of the conversation. Sometimes, it’s where the real one begins.

    THE maison 1973 Takeaway

    Not every differing opinion is an attack. Sometimes it’s just… another point of view.

    Not every opinion needs a rebuttal. Not every point needs a mic drop. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is simply: “I hear you.”

    What do you think?

    Certainty is trending.
    But curiosity? That’s timeless.

    maison 1973

    Your curiosity is waiting.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • You’re Not Burnt Out. You’re Creatively Underfed.

    You’re Not Burnt Out. You’re Creatively Underfed.

    Midlife isn’t the problem.
    MONOTONY is.

    Creativity is oxygen. You might be holding your breath?

    “I wasn’t exhausted. I was underfed — creatively, emotionally, spiritually. It took me a litle while to realise the difference.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Where Has Our CREATIVITY Gone?

    There’s a particular kind of fatigue that doesn’t come from overwork. It comes from underfeeling. Underimagining. Undercreating.

    And if you’re a Gen X woman waking up each day wondering why the spark is gone, wondering why a full night’s sleep still leaves you feeling flat—you might not be burnt out. We spend so much of our time reading, talking thinking and worrying about navigating through all of our midlife hormonal and ‘life shifts’ – but sometimes it’s not about any of that.

    You might just be creatively underfed.

    Let’s dive into this interesting space a little more.

    The Myth of BURNOUT (And Why It’s Not Always True)

    We’ve been sold the idea that burnout means we’ve worked too hard, too long, for too little reward. And sure—that’s part of it. But many women in midlife are doing less than they did ten years ago, and yet feel more emotionally depleted than ever.

    Why? Because what’s missing isn’t capacity. It’s creative nourishment.

    Burnout is collapse. It’s the body saying no. But creative starvation is subtler. It shows up as:

    • Restlessness in rest.
    • Mindless scrolling that leaves you hollow.
    • Emotional flatness.
    • A longing you can’t quite name.

    We’re not broken. Our inner world is hungry. We know the feeling all too well.

    “Midlife didn’t dull my ambition. It just redirected it. Now I crave doing what I do best – creating. Not busyness.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Competence Isn’t CREATIVITY

    If you’re a Gen X woman, you were more than likely raised on grit, efficiency, and survival. You’ve spent decades holding everything together, knowing what to do, and doing it well. You’re probably damn good at your job, your calendar, your life…and everything in between.

    But somewhere along the way, being competent became the enemy of being curious. Of being lit up. Of not knowing, and playing anyway.

    And here’s the kicker: a life full of function without imagination becomes… beige. Not bad. Just blunted.

    This isn’t about quitting your job to become an artist (or absolutely it could be if that’s what lights your fire). This is about asking yourself: Where am I letting the spark go dim, because I’ve convinced myself I don’t have time to feel it?

    Whatever it is—your spark can re-ignite.

    maison 1973

    How to Tell if You’re Creatively UNDERFED

    You might not be aware it’s happening. But here are some signs:

    • You’re consuming more than you’re creating (even if creating just means journaling or arranging flowers).
    • You feel uninspired by the things that used to excite you.
    • You crave depth but settle for distraction.
    • You’re always ‘tired’ but rest doesn’t work.
    • You long for something…but can’t name what.

    If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone. And you’re not failing. You’re just a little creatively underfed.

    What Creative NOURISHMENT Actually Looks Like

    Let’s be clear: this isn’t about being productive. This isn’t about monetising your hobby or learning to paint so you can open an Etsy shop.

    Creative nourishment is about doing something for the sheer joy of it. It’s doing something you don’t need to be good at. It’s about creating energy, not output.

    Here’s what that might look like:

    • Putting on music and dancing alone in the kitchen.
    • Re-reading a novel you loved at 22.
    • Drawing.
    • Doodling
    • Art – in all forms. Admiring it.
    • Start a blog
    • Take beautiful pictures
    • Wander without intent.
    • Daydreaming.
    • Making something – anything.
    • Cooking something new. Or something old and comforting.
    • Wandering in nature.
    • Writing a letter
    • Creating a mood board
    • Playing – with a guitar, an instrument, a new gadget.
    • Rearranging your shelves by colour.
    • Lighting a candle at 3pm, just because.

    Creativity isn’t always grand. Sometimes it’s just giving yourself permission to care and be playful and letting your mind just wander. Get lost in our thoughts.

    Why Midlife Is a Creative PORTAL

    Most people think of creativity as youthful: the domain of 20-somethings and start-ups. But midlife? Midlife is actually one of the richest, most potent portals for creative reinvention—if we choose to walk through it.

    Here’s why:

    • You care less about other people’s opinions.
    • You know yourself better than you ever have.
    • You have been through all life has offered so far – good and bad.
    • You’ve survived enough to know what matters.
    • You’re not here to prove. You’re here to express.

    And creative expression is the exact antidote to the ‘grey fog’ of modern life.

    THE maison 1973 Takeaway

    This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing different.

    At maison 1973, we believe:

    • Creativity isn’t a luxury—it’s a life source.
    • Midlife isn’t a crisis—it’s a privilege.
    • You don’t need to be good. You just need to be willing.
    • Just start – do, change, repeat

    And when we create (whether it’s a dish, a sentence, a feeling, or a space), we re-enter our world with fresh eyes.

    If you feel like you’re stuck in beige… If you can’t remember the last time something lit you up… If you’re craving something more, but unsure what…

    This is a call back to your creative self.

    It’s not always ‘burnout’ – maybe you just need to feed your inner creative. Sometimes it’s not about the five-year plan. You just need a spark. And maybe it starts with a messy doodle, a walk without your phone, or a playlist you haven’t heard since 1996.

    Whatever it is, let’s find it. Because it’s wonderful.

    Midlife isn’t an ending-
    it’s an invitation.
    You in?

    maison 1973

    Your creativity is waiting.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • Linen Obsession: Why This Fabric Has Captivated Designers for Centuries

    Linen Obsession: Why This Fabric Has Captivated Designers for Centuries

    A DESIGNERS Fabric

    The perfect imperfection.

    “Linen taught me that style doesn’t need to be loud. It’s a very relatable textile. It needs to feel lived-in, lasting, and true. It’s how I live — natural, textured, little bit crumpled! And never trying too hard…”

    creator maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    A Linen LOVE Affair

    There’s something about linen. For those of us who appreciate texture, craftsmanship, and understated luxury, linen isn’t just fabric – it’s a feeling.

    Having worked in home textiles and product design for some of the biggest brands in Australia and globally, our team here at maison 1973 have seen countless materials come and go, but linen? Linen simply endures. It tells a story of heritage, of artisanship, and of an unwavering place in modern interior design.

    But what makes it so special? Why are designers, stylists, and consumers alike so drawn to this humble yet exquisite fabric?

    This is a deep dive into linen’s rich origins, its many uses, and why it has become the cornerstone of modern interiors and clothing. We consider this a little love letter to our forever favourite textile.

    A Fabric Steeped In HISTORY

    Linen is one of the oldest textiles in the world, dating back over 36,000 years. Archaeological finds suggest that flax fibres were woven into fabric long before the pyramids of Egypt were even conceived. The ancient Egyptians revered linen, using it for everything from garments to burial shrouds—reserved, of course, for the elite and the sacred. Linen symbolised purity and wealth, often used to wrap mummies because of its natural preservation qualities. (Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

    Fast forward to medieval Europe, and linen became a household essential. France, in particular, became a hub for the finest linen production, perfecting the craft through centuries of weaving. To this day, the French province of Normandy remains one of the world’s most renowned sources of flax, known for its exceptional quality and durability.

    A maison 1973 fun fact? The term linens—referring to bed sheets and household textiles—comes from the fact that linen was the main material used in home textiles before cotton and synthetic fibres became popular.

    The ART of Weaving: What Makes Linen So Unique?

    From a designer’s perspective, linen is unmatched in both aesthetics and performance. But what makes it so special?

    Durability & Strength: Linen fibres are up to three times stronger than cotton, which is why linen sheets, when cared for properly, can last for decades. Over time, rather than wearing out, linen softens – offering a luxurious lived-in feel.

    Breathability & Comfort: Ever wondered why linen sheets feel cool in summer yet cosy in winter? Linen’s natural fibres allow air to circulate, regulating temperature and wicking away moisture better than any other textile. (Source: National Sleep Foundation)

    Sustainability: Linen is one of the most eco-friendly fabrics available. Flax requires far less water than cotton, thrives without heavy pesticides, and every part of the plant is used – meaning zero waste. With sustainability becoming a non-negotiable in modern design, linen is leading the way.

    Linen in MODERN Interior Design: A Love Affair That Lasts

    For those of us with a keen eye for interiors, there is no denying that linen is an essential element of contemporary styling. It’s loved by top designers and stylists for its relaxed yet refined appeal. Let’s explore it’s varied uses:

    Linen Bedding: The Ultimate Everyday Luxury

    There’s a reason why luxury bedding brands such as Cultiver, Hale Mercantile Co, Carlotta & Gee, Bedouin Societe, bedtonic and Piglet in Bed (to name just a few from our long list of favourites) are championing linen sheets. Linen bedding is effortlessly chic, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making it perfect for year-round comfort.

    Linen Obsession: Why This Fabric Has Captivated Designers for Centuries

    We love layering our linen, and also opting for heavier linen bed covers that provide a cosy and inviting atmosphere to our bedrooms. Adding lightweight throws in complimentary colours not only enhances the visual appeal but also offers versatility during fluctuating temperatures. We love to add cushions in an array of sizes and textures—think bolsters and larger size euros—that create an eclectic yet harmonious look. We also use our euros as couch cushions (instead of the standard smaller sizes) as we love the aesthetic and overall comfort they provide.

    image source: Pinterest

    Our Design Tip: For a stylish, layered look, maison 1973 enjoys using neutral linen shades – like warm whites, oat, soft greys, and classic earth tones. This combo gives a laid-back, upscale vibe. The great thing about linen is how relaxing and easy it feels in any home, whether it’s a beach house, a city apartment, or a farmhouse.

    It truly is super versatile.

    Linen Upholstery: Texture That Elevates a Space

    Linen-covered sofas and armchairs are becoming a signature in modern European and Australian homes. Unlike synthetic fabrics that can feel heavy or overly structured, linen upholstery adds an organic softness, aging beautifully over time.

    Brands championing linen upholstery and our favourites:

    Our Design Tip: We always seem to pair our linen-upholstered furniture with natural materials like timber, stone, and wool for a warm, organic feel.

    Linen CURTAINS: Softness & Light Filtering

    Heavy curtains can feel overwhelming and sometimes out dated for our more contemporary style of homes nowadays, but beautiful, lightweight linen curtains bring a breezy, understated luxury to any space. They allow soft light to filter through while maintaining privacy, making them perfect for modern, minimalist homes.

    Our Design Tip: For styling, we always choose extra long linen curtains in soft neutrals (or washed-out pastels) to create an airy, European-inspired aesthetic. Our pick are from Cultiver.

    “After all, I was dressed in linen and so retained a certain capacity for nonchalance.”

    Author, Joanna Ruocco

    Beyond Interiors: The EVERYDAY Beauty of Linen

    Linen isn’t just for the bedroom or living room. It finds its way into every corner of a thoughtfully designed home:

    Linen Napery & Tablecloths – The easiest way to elevate a dinner setting, linen belongs in the kitchen and dining space just as much as it does in the bedroom or living area – perhaps even more so. A softly rumpled linen tablecloth instantly transforms a meal into a bit more of a special moment, and linen napkins add both beauty and functionality to everyday tasks. Unlike synthetic fabrics, linen absorbs better, dries faster, and only gets softer with each wash, making it a natural choice for those who appreciate quality that lasts. Whether draped over a rustic wooden table or neatly folded beside a plate, linen in the dining space speaks to an effortless kind of elegance – one that values texture, tradition, and the quiet luxury of well-made things. We love and use these Cultiver napkins often.

    Our Design Tip: We love using our linen tablecloth as a fun throw for outdoor picnics and bbq’s. It’s super lightweight, easy to carry around, and a breeze to clean, plus it always adds a nice little luxurious touch!

    Linen Tea Towels – Lightweight, highly absorbent, and naturally quick-drying. We love and use these Cultiver tea towels everyday.

    Linen Towels – Again, so lovely and lightweight, absorbent, and naturally quick-drying, linen towels add such a stylish addition to any bathroom. We adore these Hale Mercantile towels and use them everyday in our bathrooms.

    Linen Loungewear – There’s nothing quite like arriving home after a long day at work, enjoying a refreshing shower, and slipping into some stylishly comfortable PJ’s. The latest linen loungewear is not only comfortable, but also serves beautifully as chic daywear—perfect for grabbing a coffee (in our favourite linen pants and shirt by Jasmine & Will)—absolutely! We also have this gorgeous and versatile linen shirt by Carlotta & Gee on high rotation.

    Linen Clothing – Wearing your favourite linen feels so easy. A white linen shirt, slightly oversized, gives off a relaxed, confident vibe – structured yet soft, timeless yet modern. Flowing linen dresses, like our beloved ones from Seaside Tones, perfectly embody ‘stylishly undone’. The charm of linen clothing lies not only in its comfort but also in how it elevates even the simplest outfits, making them feel effortless and stylish. True style isn’t about trying too hard – it’s about wearing what feels like you.

    “I have more linen pieces than I care to admit. An oversized linen shirt is a part of my signature style, all year round. Perfect for travelling, they are indestructible. The older, the better I say!”

    creator maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    white linen dress

    Caring for Linen: A Designer’s ADVICE

    Investing in linen means knowing how to care for it properly. Unlike synthetic fabrics, linen gets better with time – but only if treated well.

    These are how we have cared for our linen over the years and it still looks (and functions) like the very first day we bought it:

    1. Wash in cool or lukewarm water (never hot) – to preserve the fibres.
    2. Use a gentle detergent – harsh chemicals can break down the natural structure of linen.
    3. Air-dry whenever possible – for that effortless, organic ‘lived in’ texture.
    4. Embrace the wrinkles – linen isn’t meant to be perfectly pressed. The beauty is in its relaxed imperfection.

    Why Linen Will Always Be TIMELESS

    For those of us who appreciate authenticity in design, linen represents effortless elegance, history, and sustainability in one fabric. It’s not just a passing trend – it’s a timeless textile that has been, and will always be, a hallmark of understated luxury.

    Over the years we have been inspired by many wonderful textile designers, but few voices in the world of design have the depth, foresight, and influence of Lidewij Edelkoort. A true pioneer in trend forecasting, textile innovation, and sustainability, she has spent decades shaping the way we see fashion, interiors, and the materials that surround us. Her ability to anticipate the future – while deeply honouring craftsmanship and heritage – has made her one of the most respected minds in the industry and someone we have always loved to be inspired by. Over the years, we have had the privilege of attending her seminars and reading her trend books and colour forecasting. They are always insightful and a joy to consume.

    As a lifelong advocate for natural fibres and slow design, Lidewij Edelkoort. has often spoken about the enduring value of linen – its ability to bridge past and future, tradition and modernity. Her trend agency, Trend Union, continues to influence global fashion, homeware, and sustainability movements. We simply love her design philosophy and her eye for detail.

    The Maison 1973 Takeaway:

    So whether you’re investing in beautiful linen bedding, a timeless linen sofa, or just a set of perfectly rumpled linen napkins, you’re not just buying fabric, you’re buying into a legacy – one that tells stories of the past, while seamlessly fitting into the modern world.

    Linen is forever.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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