From exploring Melbourne’s vibrant vintage markets to curating interiors for some of the world’s most luxurious hospitality spaces, Simone Haag has built a remarkable career rooted in creativity, intuition, and an exceptional storytelling ability. Her unique approach to interior decoration blends a deep appreciation for history and craftsmanship with a keen eye for modern design, resulting in spaces that feel both timeless and deeply personal. Over the years, Haag has transformed homes and venues alike into visual narratives that celebrate individuality, culture, and the seamless interplay between old and new — a journey that reflects not only her artistic vision but also her tenacity and passion for design.
A creative upbringing sparks a unique vision
Simone Haag’s formative years in Melbourne, a city renowned for its vibrant art scene and eclectic culture, laid the foundation for her distinctive approach to interior decoration. Surrounded by galleries, vintage markets, and a community that embraces both tradition and innovation, Haag developed a natural storytelling instinct. This sensibility is evident in her carefully curated spaces, where each element — from furniture to textiles — contributes to a layered, narrative-driven aesthetic.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have grown up in Melbourne — a city that quietly fosters creativity,” Haag reflects. “There’s a respect for individuality here and a gentle eclecticism that encourages exploring the interplay of old and new.” This philosophy underpins much of her work, which deftly balances historical reverence with contemporary elegance.
Her role as an interior decorator focuses on the finishing touches — the subtle details and curated objects that bring personality and warmth to spaces designed by architects and interior designers. The goal is to create environments that not only reflect the vision of her collaborators but also resonate with the lifestyles and stories of those who inhabit them.
Accolades and international recognition
Since launching her own studio in 2014, Haag has garnered critical acclaim for her residential and hospitality projects. She has won prestigious awards like the IDEA Award for residential interior curation and was featured in Interior Design Magazine’s best country residence list in 2024. Her talent has also led her to television hosting and curatorial roles, cementing her reputation in the design community.
A highlight came during Milan Design Week 2025, where Haag participated in Artemest’s third L’Appartamento showcase. Tasked with dressing a 19th-century palazzo foyer, she created a striking contrast between classical architecture and contemporary Italian design. Pieces like Cini Boeri’s 1971 Papero table lamp and Oscar Torlasco’s Almond console table underscored her ability to blend history with modernity in a harmonious and elevated way.
“It was fascinating to see how fearless Italian design can be — confident in material, silhouette, and scale,” Haag notes. “This duality of avant-garde and tradition has inspired me to explore new dimensions in my own work.”
Inspiration drawn from global travels and home life
Travel is a crucial wellspring of inspiration for Haag, who describes herself as a “treasure hunter and stage designer.” Her recent discovery of Mexico City’s vibrant design scene captivated her with its rich blend of colonial and modernist architecture and warm craftsmanship.
“Mexico City wears its history with confidence,” she enthuses, “and there’s a soulful warmth in the craftsmanship that feels both timeless and surreal.” She finds parallels between Mexico City and Melbourne, particularly their shared tension between restraint and exuberance — a balance she strives to reflect in her interiors.
Back home, Haag’s own residence — Light Well House, a 1972 modernist design by Ian J Smith — embodies this ethos of quiet confidence and openness. The internal courtyard, or “light well,” floods the home with soft natural light, creating a serene atmosphere. Haag styled the house to feel both elegant and family-friendly, emphasizing comfort alongside aesthetic appeal. “My approach is rooted in emotional resonance,” she explains. “I’m drawn to pieces with soul, whether vintage, handcrafted, or unexpected. Styling isn’t just filling a space; it’s composing a visual language that tells the story of the people who live there.”
Building a personal and professional legacy
Haag’s journey into the creative world was far from linear. Before entering design, she worked as a private jet flight attendant, a snowboarding instructor, and an event manager in London. Returning to Australia, she started at an entry-level role in interior design before quickly carving out a niche with her unique eye for subtle luxury.
Among her standout projects are luxury hospitality interiors for Capella Hotels, including the recently refurbished Capella Manor in Singapore. Here, she layered tactile materials like pewter, ceramics, rare timbers, and glass to complement the existing architecture by Foster and Partners and interiors by Jaya Ibrahim. The living room features sculptural lighting and distinctive seating, blending global artistry with local Australian craft.
Haag’s commitment to Australian creatives shines through in projects like her curatorial debut at Craft Victoria’s “Fables & Folklore” exhibition. She praises the growing confidence of Australian designers in expressing a “uniquely Australian voice — sophisticated yet soulful, rooted in place but daring to push boundaries.” Currently, Haag is designing a holiday home in Tolmie, Victoria, known as The Mountain House, which she describes as a “cosy abode” blending raw nature with soulful interiors. Intended as a luxury rental, it will showcase pieces collected over years of travels, embodying her philosophy of layered, emotive design. “It won’t be precious, but layered — a space to retreat, reflect, and connect to something deeper,” Haag says. “It’s still evolving, but I already sense it will be very special.”
Simone Haag’s story is one of passion, intuition, and dedication to crafting spaces that resonate on a deeply human level. From Melbourne’s creative neighborhoods to international stages, she continues to shape interiors that are not only beautiful but meaningful — a true reflection of the lives and stories they shelter.
