In Bed With Zenn – Loui Burke

How did Loui Burke get started in the interiors/lifestyle space?
My journey started when I was young. My parents had restaurants, accommodation, stores and nursery where I learnt how to set tables, make beds and style weddings and events. I later went on to study fine arts and photography before switching to Design at Whitehouse Institute of Design. From there I went on to work as a photographic stylist, later becoming a marketing manager and art director across kidswear and bedlinen brands before pursuing social media within the home and lifestyle space for the last 3 years.

Is there one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I think people assume I’ve always been in interiors, but my background is actually in photography and art direction before moving into styling. I love strategising and brand development.

What’s been a career highlight for you?
A career highlight has been working with so many Australian brands and really defining the home and lifestyle space on social media in a way that hasn’t been done before.

Do you take on private styling projects?
I do! You can find more info on my website

Why is Australian made and bespoke design important to you?
Nothing captures the essence of Australian style like a local brand can. Australians are known over the world for our design and fashion, so it makes complete sense to have local pieces in your home.

I think we all want to know – what's the story behind your parents stunning farm house? Who did the interior design for it?
My parents bought the farmhouse, but it had lost a lot of its original character. They took on the project along with me helping them to bring it back to its life, mixing traditional with a touch of Indonesian charm. It's very much a family project. My father is a builder, my mum brings it to life with the furniture, and I'm the sounding board to help make decisions too. A labour of love.

How do you practise self care?
Previously, self-care initially felt very much product-driven by skincare and other treatments, but nowadays I think the biggest thing that helps me is moving my body. I love a long walk, usually on the phone catching up with my family and friends. I also work out 4 times a week. Prioritising time to step away from the work and bustle of life to focus on what's going on mentally and physically is super important.

Do you have any night-time rituals or have a process to help you achieve a sense of zenn?
I usually go for a walk with my partner at night after dinner and then put my phone on charge when we get home and jump in the shower and go through the skincare ritual and then watch a show and drink tea before heading to bed. I try to keep my phone out of my bedroom at least an hour before bed to unwind and be more present.

What are you coveting right now?
I'm planning a trip to New York and/or Copenhagen at the end of the year. I have to make this happen!

Shop the Look
Bed: Oversized Queen Krystal Bedhead
Fabric: Linia Design (Warwick) – Parissi Snow

Image Credits:
Side Tables: Castlery
Objects: Ellison Studios / Marloe Marloe / Anitqo
Linen: Bed Threads
Mirror: James Lane