Meet Toneya and Lochie, a creative couple living on the Mornington Peninsula.
An interior designer and filmmaker, this duo are continually evolving what creative expression looks like for them. From freelance design projects, landscaping, real estate filmmaking and launching their very own co-working space, Toneya and Lochie are doing it all.
You’re both talented creatives, so tell us about your businesses and how you came to be in these industries?
Lochie: I started in the video industry straight out of uni (I studied Multimedia Design) as a wedding filmmaker and then pivoted to real estate in 2015 as there was an opportunity to shake the industry with property lifestyle films by adding a human touch. Flip Films has been in operation for 10 years and we’ve seen a massive shift in the level of impact films have through social media.
Toneya: I began my career in fashion after finishing school, studying fashion business and working in retail from a young age. That early experience naturally led me into visual merchandising, where I spent around five years creating window displays and in-store visual briefs.
Alongside this, I’ve always loved drawing and creative space planning, so when we moved into our first apartment, it felt like a natural progression to start studying and working in interior design. I’ve now been working in interior design for around ten years, and since having children, my passion has deepened for creating forever family homes.
What inspires you both and where do you like to digest your design inspiration?
Lochie: I’m inspired by great architecture and a love for cinematic sets. It's a combo that works well for what we do. We gain lots of inspiration through high level movie and TV productions and cinematography techniques on Instagram. Who doesn't love a good scroll for inspo?!
Toneya: Travel has always been a big source of inspiration for us. Experiencing different places and cultures has shaped the way we think about how people live, move through, and truly connect with their homes. We’re drawn to spaces that feel considered and emotive and leaves an lasting impression.
In another life, what was Plan B?
Lochie: Landscape architecture. I've always loved transforming the spaces around our homes over the years. Nothing beats the outdoors.
Toneya: I’m a natural empath and very emotionally led — I cry at the drop of a hat and have always felt a strong connection to animals. I’m happiest when I’m surrounded by them, and if I hadn’t pursued a creative career, I could easily imagine myself as a full-time animal carer with a house full of animals.
What does the ultimate life indulgence look like for you?
Lochie & Toneya : For us, the ultimate life indulgence is time, calm, and genuine connection rather than excess. Life feels quite fast-paced at the moment, so stepping away from phones and computers, sharing good food and wine, and spending uninterrupted time with the people we love feels like the greatest luxury of all.
Toneya, you selected the Hudson bed in Mokum Alpaca, Cacao and a Willow bed in Fabricut Jude, Wine for your home and they look incredible. What drew you to that design and fabric selection?
Toneya: Warmth was the starting point for both choices. I was drawn to fabrics that felt soft to the touch but also visually rich and inviting. The tones felt timeless and comforting, creating a sense of calm and ease in the space. We’re big coffee drinkers, and some of our favourite moments are slow mornings enjoying a coffee in bed before the day begins, so it was important that the beds felt cosy, grounding, and designed for everyday rituals.
Lochie, Flip Films creates some incredible work. What's been the pinnacle of projects you’ve worked on?
Lochie: There have been a few standout projects, particularly those that have allowed us to work across film, storytelling, and brand identity at a larger scale. Projects that push us creatively while still feeling purposeful are always the most rewarding.
Do you have any night-time rituals or have a process to help you achieve a sense of calm?
Lochie: We make sure the house is in order. No dishes in the sink, clothes sorted, everything tidied up that leads to a moment where we can take a fresh breath and rest easy. It makes for a clear start the next day.
Toneya: We’re both quite detail-oriented and naturally crave order, which helps create a sense of calm. In the evenings, we like to do a full reset — tidying the kitchen, living areas, and laundry so everything is clean and put away. We’ll also set up the kids’ lunchboxes for the morning, which makes the start of the day feel seamless and unrushed. Once that’s done, I usually wind down in bed with an LED mask while watching something trashy, or I’ll pop my headphones in and listen to an audiobook — a simple routine that helps me fully switch off.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
Lochie: Undefeated in chess.
Toneya: Tomboy at heart. I grew up captaining the football and cricket team. Also, a diehard Collingwood family.
What’s next for Lochie and Toneya? Anything you can share?
Lochie: The final year of my 30s so it’s a year of slowing down time and trying new things.
Toneya: Slowly renovating our current home and painting more.
And finally… What are you coveting right now? (Design, fashion, travel, lifestyle — anything!)
Lochie: Since we are launching a new co-work space this year the focus right now is gaining inspo of workspaces around the world to create something pretty atmospheric here on the Mornington Peninsula.
Toneya: Right now, I’m coveting calm and character in interiors and travel. Most of our home is made up of second-hand or vintage finds, and I love discovering pieces with a story — whether through auctions, marketplaces, or quirky treasures while travelling. Bringing those unique, lived-in pieces into a home adds warmth and personality I can’t get enough of.
Shop the Look
Hudson Bed in Alpaca Cacao
Image Credits
Photographer: Elisa Watson
Styling: Toneya Tangas
Linen: Abode Living - Biella Quilt Cover
Side Tables: Rachel Donath - Vernier Round Side Table
Art: Painted by Toneya
Objects: Far & Few Vase - Ferm Living Glasswear