Davina Bester, Managing Director at Milieu Creative
Davina Bester is at the helm of Perth-based architecture and interior design collective Milieu Creative, which she started over 10 years ago. Working across residential, commercial and hospitality projects, the studio is known for their holistic approach and producing excellent design outcomes. With a busy work life, Davina always remembers to enjoy the small daily rituals that allow her to recharge and be her most creative self. Here, Davina shares some of her favourite spots in Perth for Italian fare, an emerging fashion designer’s new eponymous label and a cookbook that inspires her creativity.
Interviews
10.01.2022
The Royal Hotel by Milieu Creative. Photograph: Dion Robeson.
Ottolenghi's 'Simple'.
Il Lido Italian canteen in Cottesloe, Western Australia.
Where in the world do we find you?
When I’m not at work I love being at home [in Perth, Western Australia], but when the borders open, I will go straight to London! I love Borough Market for the food and running along the Thames near Tower Bridge past the docks.
What is your favourite room at home?
Our kitchen with the bifold windows open and a view to the pool – I love sitting and watching my girls enjoy the outdoors and play games.
Any must-read books?
The only book that gets read by me is a cook book – I love the Otttolenghi books that always seem to inspire something that ends up being much more abstract than the initial recipe.
COMO The Treasury by Kerry Hill Architects. Photograph: courtesy of The State Buildings.
Where do you like to eat out?
Belissimo with my girls or Il lido with my husband – my favourite dishes are the octopus salad at Belissimo, and the cuttlefish at Il Lido.
What is on your playlist?
A huge mix…London Grammar, Bahamas, Ziggy Alberts, Rufus Du Sol.
An up-and-coming designer to watch?
I love Banda Property’s work in the UK and also fashion designer Phoebe Philo’s new eponymous label.
Your favourite building or architect?
The Treasury building – especially a stay at the COMO Hotel. The architect, Kerry Hill, was exceptional; anything he designed makes you feel a sense of place.
A piece of furniture you own and love?
My Dream Bed by Marcel Wanders.
An important iconic furniture piece you covet?
Cassina’s Capitol Complex armchair.
What first comes to mind when you think of Australia?
Warm summers and enjoying the simple life with long days at the beach.
Can you share what you are working on at the moment?
We are working on an incredible mix of commercial and residential projects. One of which is the Mineral Resources new office space in Osborne Park – a workspace that aims to be at the vanguard of future workplace wellness design.
Cassina's Capitol Complex armchair paying hommage to Pierre Jeanneret.