Category: Nature

  • Hard To Impress, Easy To Inspire.

    Hard To Impress, Easy To Inspire.

    We Don’t Want To Just FOLLOW

    We want to feel something.

    The PARADOX Of Now

    Yes, t’s harder to dazzle us, but easier to move us – but only if you know where to aim.

    We’ve outgrown just the fireworks. Now, the bar for “impressed” sits somewhere between seen it and not buying it. But inspiration? That still resonates.

    Now: We’re Better EDITORS.

    We have a few years and many many experiences under our belts now. We are a lot more in tune with ourselves, our desires and what we are now wanting. So it was only a matter of time that we became much better at knowing what truly impresses us – and what’s all for show.

    We’ve always been our own ‘editor’ but now – we’ve sharpened our senses to a point that we know how to actually edit life differently.

    The bar might be higher, but the joy we crave is deeper.

    A NEW Threshold.

    Lately I’ve realised my threshold for being “impressed” keeps climbing. But inspired? That can happen in a second – when someone keeps a promise, when something goes from ideation to action, when something moves me. I’ve outgrown things that are just ‘spectacles’ for the sake of it. We see through the BS much quicker now – it’s not being cynical, it’s just knowing in your gut and your head – and trusting it. I want resonance -the kind you feel in your chest. That’s what holds my interest now. That’s what I find inspiring.

    So is being hard to impress a bad thing? Absolutely not. It’s discerning. It’s real.

    “I like when things give me goosebumps. It means it’s really struck a chord with me. It’s captured not only my attention, but I am intrigued. I feel a flicker of inspiration. I love being inspired more than anything – it creates a certain energy. It’s where my curiosity get’s to roam freely.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic

    What inspires you now and

    what gives you goosebumps?

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • 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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  • Insight & Instinct: Learning to Trust Both

    Insight & Instinct: Learning to Trust Both

    The BLEND: Data & Gut

    Powerful duo.
    photograph of wild horses running in the steppe, brown and white, grainy film filter, minimalist, kodak portra film, cinematic, in the style of Monia Merlo –ar 35:57 Job ID: e2b26c11-f31f-41a8-87e0-4d6d6ce7c07a

    The POWER We All Have

    There’s something magical that starts to happen in midlife.

    You realise you’ve spent decades collecting insight — facts, patterns, frameworks, evidence, experiences. And just as suddenly, your instinct starts to get louder. Not louder in volume. Louder in clarity.

    The gut pulls that once felt like noise now feel like knowing. The flashes of intuition that once felt inconvenient now feel undeniable.

    And somewhere along the way, we realise that we don’t have to choose one over the other.

    The new power? It comes from learning to hold and use, both.

    Insight: The MUSCLE You Built

    Let’s be clear. You didn’t get here by winging it. You worked hard. You analysed. You listened. You endured. You lived. You learned the difference between hype and reality. Between story and substance. Between what’s nonsense BS and what actually matters.

    Your insight has been earned.

    You can read a room, a brief, a person. You can anticipate outcomes. You know what happens when people talk too fast, promise too much, sell too early. We have honed these skills over four or more decades now.

    That’s our insight. It’s not just intellect — it’s pattern recognition. It’s lived experience. It’s data you carry in your bones.

    But insight is only one side of the story.

    Instinct: The VOICE That Was Always There

    Instinct doesn’t shout. It nudges us. It tugs at us. It stirs somewhere in our gut that we can’t quite put our finger on.

    It’s the “something’s off” before you know why. It’s the moment you’re about to sign, and your body says no. It’s the moment you are not so sure about someone or something, but you can’t explain why.

    Instinct isn’t always rational. But it’s deeply intelligent. It’s our subconscious pulling on thousands of micro-data points before our brain can catch up.

    In your 20s, you possibly ignored it. You doubted it. Now? We’d be fools not to listen.

    Why Midlife Women Are the ULTIMATE Balancers of Both

    Because we’ve had to be. Quite simple really.

    We’ve spent years in boardrooms, bedrooms, hospitals, offices, schools. We’ve seen what happens when people follow logic without heart. And we’ve seen what happens when people follow vibes without vision.

    Midlife isn’t about becoming more cautious or more impulsive. It’s about becoming fluent in both of these languages and learning to balance them more than ever before.

    “Insight for me, has always been about trying to rationalise with fact and experience. Intuition on the other hand, just hits me when I least expect it. I find nowadays, I listen to my gut more than ever before.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic

    When Insight Gets in the WAY

    Sometimes we’re too smart. We overthink. We talk ourselves out of a yes because we can’t justify it on paper. We stay where it’s safe, because the data says it’s stable.

    But the truth is: stability isn’t always success. And sometimes insight can paralyse you with options. Analysis paralysis – we’ve all been in many (business) situations where this is strongly evident!

    We forget that not every decision needs a business case. Some just need a feeling.

    When INSTINCT Is the Only Thing You Have

    And then there are the moments when insight fails you. The job offer looks perfect. The partnership is textbook ideal. The timing seems “right.”

    And yet…You feel that flicker. That unease. And you walk away. Or you say yes. Or you shift the entire plan based on a gut pull you couldn’t explain.

    And later, you realise: your body knew what your mind couldn’t articulate. That’s instinct. That’s trusting your gut.

    How Do We HONOUR Both?

    We all find ourselves in this position, day in day out. Sometimes the decisions we face are enormous and life changing, others are just everyday situations. Here’s how we tend to tackle it:

    Pause before the plan. Give instinct a seat at your table before you logic it to death.

    Validate the feeling. Ask yourself: is this a real no, or just fear?

    Cross-check with insight. Gut says go? Great. Now give it some structure.

    Decide with your whole self. Not just your brain. Not just your body. All of you.

    Midlife truly is the age of integration. We are not just thinkers. We are feelers, knowers, deciders – all encompassing now.

    We don’t need to prove we’re smart. We don’t need to explain why we know what we know. We just get to trust that the years have sharpened every part of us.

    Close up photo of a white marble sculpture in the corner of a minimal Paris apartment, a classical Greek style head and shoulders figure in the style of Greek sculptures, minimalist aesthetic with cream walls. –ar 35:47 –style raw Job ID: 47388394-56bb-44dd-b72d-487d78a3456a

    Insight is our compass.

    Instinct is our wind.

    Trust both.

    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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  • Understanding What Matters Most in Midlife

    Understanding What Matters Most in Midlife

    Genuine FULFILMENT

    So, what matters most to you?

    The MIDLIFE Perspective Shift

    There’s a moment—sometimes gradual, sometimes all at once—when you realise that you no longer have the energy for what doesn’t matter. The endless proving, the striving, the worrying about things that once seemed so urgent but now feel insignificant.

    Midlife is not about fading into the background, we like to think it’s about stepping forward with clarity, purpose, and an unshakable sense of self.

    The maison 1973 woman has lived enough to know what truly matters. And, more importantly, what doesn’t.

    She is no longer chasing approval or trends, and she has outgrown the need to justify her choices. Instead, she is focused on

    depth over distraction, quality over quantity, and confidence over comparison.

    But in a world that is constantly pushing for more, faster, louder—it takes intention to slow down, to define success on your own terms, and to prioritise what genuinely brings fulfilment.

    Let’s explore.

    “At the end of the day, it’s pretty simple for me. It’s the love and care I have for the people who matter most, the unwavering companionship of my dog, my health, purpose in my work and being surrounded by nature. Everything else? Nice to have, but not essential now. When I focus on these things, I feel rich.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney.

    Living With PURPOSE

    At this stage in life, we are done with doing things just because we should. Purpose is no longer about checking boxes or climbing ladders—we believe it’s about aligning our time, energy, and talents with what feels meaningful.

    For some of us, that might mean pivoting in a career that no longer inspires them. For others, it’s about carving out more time for creativity, for projects that light them up, for work that feels expansive instead of draining.

    We Ask Ourselves: Does how I spend my time reflect what truly matters to me? If so, wonderful. If not, how can we adjust it? It’s an ongoing dialogue we have. Keeps us focussed on the important things in our lives.

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Just start small. Carve out even 10 minutes a day for something that brings you joy—writing, painting, reading, learning. The key is to just start.

    Who Inspires This? Women all over the world and from all walks of life inspire us daily. Women who redefine success on their own terms, at every stage of life. We take our hats off to them. It’s incredibly wonderful to see.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: Purpose isn’t always about what you do—it’s about why you do it.

    Cultivating PRESENCE

    With life feeling fuller than ever—career, family, relationships, responsibilities—it’s easy to move through days on autopilot. But being present is a choice, and it’s one that deeply impacts our sense of fulfilment.

    Presence is about slowing down enough to actually experience life instead of rushing through it.

    It’s about truly listening when someone speaks. It’s about engaging with our surroundings instead of always planning the next thing.

    We Ask Ourselves: Am I truly here, or just going through the motions?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Create small daily rituals—whether it’s making coffee slowly, journaling for five minutes, or simply taking a deep breath before responding to an email. It’s ok to be still and silent – when did we start to believe it wasn’t?

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: A full life isn’t about doing more—it’s about being fully present for what you’re already doing.

    CONFIDENCE In Style & Self

    One of the most freeing things about midlife? You dress for yourself now. You’re no longer chasing trends or dressing to be seen—you’re dressing because it feels right.

    Style in midlife is about effortless refinement, investment over impulse, and knowing exactly what works for you. It’s about the confidence that comes with experience—the ability to walk into a room and own it, not because you’re the loudest, but because your presence is undeniable.

    We Ask Ourselves: Am I dressing for myself or for external validation?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Clear out anything from your wardrobe that doesn’t feel like you anymore. Build a collection of timeless, beautifully made pieces that bring ease to your everyday life.

    Who Embodies This For Us? Women like Carine Roitfeld, Cate Blanchett, and Tilda Swinton—style icons who have never needed trends to be relevant.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: True style isn’t about what you wear—it’s about how you wear it.

    Taking CARE (Without Guilt)

    We’ve spent years taking care of others—our families, our teams, our communities. But what about us?

    At this stage, prioritising our health and wellbeing is no longer a luxury—it’s essential. And yet, many of us still struggle with the guilt of putting ourselves first. It’s time to let that go.

    We Ask Ourselves: Am I treating my body with the same care I give to others?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Prioritise movement, sleep, and nourishment—not as punishment, but as a form of self-respect. Find what feels good, not what feels forced.

    Who Embodies This For Us? Off the top of our heads, it’s the likes of Naomi Watts embracing midlife beauty, and Pamela Anderson’s natural self-acceptance. It’s inspiring and it’s refreshing.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

    Deep & REAL Connections

    By midlife, we’ve learned that friendships and relationships evolve. Some fade naturally, some require effort, and some deepen in ways we never expected.

    What truly matters now isn’t the number of people in our lives, but the quality of the connections we keep.

    We Ask Ourselves: Which relationships bring me energy, and which ones drain me?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Nurture the friendships that feel reciprocal and let go of relationships that no longer align with who you are.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: Friendship in midlife is about quality over quantity. It’s ok to let go.

    The Luxury of CHOICE

    The greatest luxury in midlife? Choice.

    Choosing where our energy goes. Choosing what we consume. Choosing how we define success. Choosing to say no more often.

    We Ask Ourselves: Am I making choices that align with what I truly want?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Say no to things that drain you and yes to things that excite you—even if they scare you.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: True freedom isn’t having it all—it’s choosing what matters most.

    The Maison 1973 Takeaway:

    Our final thought? The maison 1973 woman isn’t here to live by someone else’s definition of success, beauty, or happiness. She knows what matters—and she builds her life around it.

    Not perfectly. Not always effortlessly. But with intention. With clarity. With a deep understanding that this is her time.

    Prioritise what matters.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • The Art of Stillness: Cultivating Quiet in a Noisy World

    The Art of Stillness: Cultivating Quiet in a Noisy World

    Finding CALM Within

    In a world that never stops.

    The Power Of PAUSE

    The world is getting louder. The news cycle never sleeps, social media never pauses, and there’s always another notification, another headline, another reason for all of us to stay plugged in. We are constantly told to be on—to react, to engage, to keep up. But at what cost?

    Stillness has become a luxury, yet it is one of the most powerful things we can cultivate.

    In a world addicted to urgency, slowing down is now perceived as a radical act.

    The maison 1973 woman knows that true confidence and presence don’t come from being the loudest voice in the room, but from knowing when to tune out the noise. This is about reclaiming quiet—not in a passive way, but as a deliberate choice to protect our mental space, restore our energy, and live with greater depth and intention.

    Here’s how we aim to do this everyday.

    “Every day, it feels like stillness is getting harder to find. The noise is constant—notifications, opinions, the endless pull of needing to do more. At the end of each day, I often ask myself: Have I taken a deep breath today? Have I sat in silence, even for a moment? Am I choosing calm, or am I just reacting? Finding stillness isn’t effortless, but it’s a choice I try to make—by slowing down, stepping outside, and reminding myself that presence is the greatest luxury of all.”

    creator maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Protect Your Mental SPACE Like You Protect Your Skin

    We apply SPF religiously to protect ourselves from harmful rays—why don’t we do the same for our minds? We are bombarded with information, opinions, and digital clutter daily, and without boundaries, it drains us.

    Curate What You Consume – Not all information is equal. We seek out slow, intentional media over the constant stream of doom scrolling. It really does help to calm us at the end of a busy day.

    Set Digital Limits – You don’t need to be constantly updated. When did we all become so obsessed with needing to know everything, at all times! Take social media breaks, unsubscribe from noise, and protect your attention span.

    Replace Noise with Intentional Quiet – Spend a morning without your phone, take a walk without a podcast, and enjoy an evening free from news. Decide when and how you connect. This has transformed life at maison 1973; simply enjoying quiet moments is truly wonderful.

    Be Selective About Conversations – Not every debate or topic needs your participation. Choose where you invest your emotional energy.

    Embrace JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) – You don’t need to be at every event, in every discussion, or aware of every trend to live a full, rich life. It’s ok to just say no thanks, not today.

    What we ask ourselves: Am I choosing what enters my mind, or is it being chosen for me?

    “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” — Anne Lamott

    The Power of Doing ONE Thing at a Time

    Multitasking has been glorified for years, but in reality, deep presence is a radical act. Instead of scattering your focus, give these techniques a try:

    Single-tasking – Giving your full attention to one thing at a time, whether it’s eating, reading, or simply breathing.

    Savouring Small Rituals – The act of making tea, putting on perfume, folding linen with care—these everyday moments become grounding when we approach them with intention.

    Practicing Micro-Moments of Stillness – Pausing before answering, sitting with silence, taking a deep breath before reacting.

    Create ‘Sacred Spaces’ in Your Home – A reading nook, a candlelit bath, a space free from screens where you can fully unwind.

    Reduce Sensory Overload – Opt for soft lighting, neutral tones, and calming textures in your surroundings to create a sense of peace.

    What we ask ourselves: When was the last time I did nothing—truly nothing?

    “Beware the barrenness of a busy life.” — Socrates

    NATURE as the Ultimate Reset Button

    We spend more time interacting with screens than with the natural world. But in a world that feels increasingly artificial, nature is the antidote – it’s our tonic. Time is nature truly is magical. It absolutely reminds us of what’s important.

    A Daily Touchpoint with Nature – Bare feet on the grass, morning sun on your face, fresh air in your lungs.

    Textural Grounding – The softness of linen against your skin, the weight of a ceramic cup in your hands, the feel of paper under pen.

    Seasonal Living – Aligning your energy with the rhythms of nature instead of the demands of the digital world.

    Slow Travel & Nature Retreats – Instead of fast-paced tourism, consider unplugged weekend escapes where you can reconnect with yourself and the world around you.

    Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) – A Japanese practice that emphasizes immersing yourself in the natural world to reduce stress and increase well-being.

    What we ask ourselves: How often do I step outside without a destination in mind?

    “Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

    The Luxury of a QUIET Life

    We live in a culture that equates more with better, faster with success, and louder with power. But maison 1973 stands for something different.

    Luxury is not filling your calendar to prove your worth.

    Luxury is choosing who and what gets your energy.

    Luxury is knowing that quiet confidence speaks louder than noise.

    Luxury is Time – Time to think, time to dream, time to be.

    Luxury is Depth Over Distraction – Instead of consuming more, we enjoy what truly matters.

    Luxury is Knowing When to Say No – To commitments, to digital noise, to anything that doesn’t align with your peace.

    Stillness isn’t passive—it’s powerful. In a world addicted to urgency, the ability to slow down, focus, and be intentional is the greatest luxury of all.

    The Role of Art, Music, and Literature in Cultivating STILLNESS

    We like to believe, that stillness isn’t just about the absence of noise—it’s also about what we choose to surround ourselves with. Art, music, and literature can be powerful tools for anchoring ourselves in the present.

    Read Slowly & Intentionally – Reread favourite books. Read poetry.

    Read things that make you think, rather than scroll.

    Surround Yourself with Beauty – Invest in pieces that evoke emotion in you —art, textiles, ceramics—things that bring depth, not just decoration.

    Let Music Be a Portal to Stillness – Classical music, jazz, soft instrumental—sounds that slow your breath and quiet your mind.

    Write Without an Agenda – Journaling, writing letters, or just putting thoughts on paper helps clear your mind. We enjoy taking a big sheet of blank paper and doodling. Just write or draw to express yourself. Much of our time is spent on screens, and picking up a pen to connect with paper feels unusual now. How strange is that?

    What we ask ourselves: What am I surrounding myself with, and how does it make me feel?

    “Without great solitude, no serious work is possible.” — Pablo Picasso

    the maison 1973 takeaway

    We don’t have to subscribe to the belief that success, influence, or relevance require constant motion. The maison 1973 woman chooses stillness—not as an escape, but as a foundation. A way to reclaim her mind, her time, and her energy.

    The world will keep moving at full speed. But you? You can choose to slow down.

    Just breathe.

    maison 1973
  • 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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