In Bed With Zenn – Rachel Portaro

Meet Rachel Portaro

Principal Designer of Lume Interiors and mum to Luca.

We revisited High Lawn House, Rachel’s personal passion project and forever home. A true labour of love, the space is a reflection of her highly considered, custom-first approach. We caught up with Rachel to talk design must-haves, what sparks joy and how she absorbs her creative inspiration.

Tell us the story of Lume Interiors and how your design career began?
I’ve always had a love for homes and interiors but it wasn’t until I worked on a new build for a personal project (and loved it) that I realised I had a real passion for this. So whilst navigating motherhood, I took the leap, enrolled myself in Design School, began working on projects – Lume Interiors was born. That was almost 7 years ago and I haven’t looked back since.  

We loved working with you on your latest project – Highlawn. This was your forever home and such a labour of love – talk us through your brief and how true to the end result this landed?
This was a dream project for me, an opportunity to create something special for my family. Our home was designed by Mason Bright who were brilliant to work with and helped bring the vision to life. The project brief was contemporary-timeless, an open plan design where we could entertain family and friends and see ourselves enjoying the home for years to come. The interiors include a calming neutral palette with hints of drama and timeless finishes that present texture and tactility. Having full creative freedom on the project did also prove challenging at times, but I learnt so much from the experience. Cannot thank my husband enough for his support and always backing each decision made. This home was a true labour of love and we’re really pleased with the end result.

How do you like to absorb your creative inspiration?
There’s so many things that spark my creativity… from conversations with clients, visiting suppliers, creating mood boards to simply flicking through a magazine. Travelling is another big one. We recently travelled to Dubai and I loved all the incredible interiors and architecture, appreciating the design details, the culture. It was an amazing experience.

Do you lean on custom furniture more for your projects? What is one custom item you specify for all your projects?
It depends on the brief and budget, but there’s always a special feel with a custom piece. Knowing it has been made especially for you. The one custom item I always recommend is a bed. It’s such an important piece of the home, in your own personal space and the place you spend so much time in. Being able to choose the design, material and colour to really make it unique adds another element of considered design to any bedroom. And of course no one makes a better bed than Zenn!

In another life, if you weren’t a Designer what would you be doing now?
Growing up I always dreamt of working for an airline! However, I really love what I do and honestly couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I love designing and seeing the process evolve from concept to completion. Creating spaces people can’t wait to live in, making the journey enjoyable and ultimately seeing my clients happy with the end result. Knowing that I have been a part of that is really rewarding.  

Why is choosing Australian-made important to you?
There’s another level of quality when choosing an Australian made product, which in my opinion is always worth the spend.

How do you practise self care and what sparks joy inside for you?
It’s the little - but big things… morning coffee in bed, listening to podcasts on a walk, being around good people, family and catching up with friends. Treating myself to a facial from time to time is really nice too. Hands down seeing my son happy is what sparks joy… and perhaps a nice glass of red.

Do you have any night-time rituals or have a process to help you achieve a sense of zenn?
At the end of the day I love cosying up on the couch, lights dimmed, candles on and taking time to unwind. I am also hooked on spraying a pillow mist on my bed before jumping in – the scent instantly calms and relaxes me.

What are you coveting right now?
Hopefully planning an overseas trip soon to watch my son race!

Shop The Zenn Look
Custom Fully Upholstered Bed in Vesuvius 04
Arch Bench Stool in Vesuvius 04
Custom window furnishings - sheers in Burano Vanilla

For custom orders, enquire here.

Image Credits:
Photography: Dave Kulesza
Styling: Bea Lambos
Side Tables: Just Adele
Linen: Abode Living 
Sconces: Lights Lights Lights
Mirror: MCM House