Lathika Nair - WISE WOMEN 2024
“Design with intention, live with purpose.”
It’s a reminder to create not just beautiful spaces, but spaces that truly serve and elevate the lives of those who inhabit them. It highlights the value of thoughtful design and intentional choices that go beyond aesthetics, enriching people’s everyday experiences and connections.
It’s a principle I carry into both my work and life, keeping me focused on what truly matters and ensuring that every project reflects a deeper sense of purpose.
Bio: Lathika Nair, Founder of Lathika Nair Design Melbourne, brings over 20 years of experience in crafting luxurious, functional spaces. She was part of the prestigious design team for the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi, one of the world’s most iconic projects, showcasing her world-class expertise. Inspired by her Kerala roots and love for art, she helps homeowners and café owners refresh their spaces with ease. Recognised among Kerala’s Top 20 Women Architects 2022, Lathika also shares her knowledge through workshops, courses, and newsletters, empowering others to create timelessly elegant spaces.
How wise are you? 45 Years Wise
Where are you from? Clarinda, Victoria
What about your life would you like to celebrate most? I celebrate my life journey as a reflection of my heritage, my love for art and craft, and my passion for bringing beauty and connection to others. I blend a piece of Kerala’s soul with Melbourne’s charm through my work, creating spaces that exude cultural richness and warmth. In addition, I would love to celebrate the number of projects I have been able to be a part of throughout my career, big and small, likewise.
Beyond design, I honour the memories and relationships that have shaped who I am. Growing up, my father played a pivotal role in sparking my creativity. He taught me to see beauty in the small things and to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship behind everything. These early lessons continue to inspire me and remind me of the importance of connecting deeply with what I do. For me, this journey is about celebrating moments, embracing my roots, and cherishing the people who’ve enriched my path. Each chapter adds more meaning and purpose to the life I’ve built.
What 3 words best describe you in this phase of your life? These words capture the essence of who I am and the direction I’m moving towards.
Grounded – staying deeply connected to my roots, heritage, and the values that shaped me.
Visionary – driven to create spaces that are timeless yet forward-thinking, always looking to innovate.
Nurturing – fostering connections with my clients and the community, creating spaces that bring warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging.
What do you love about this time of life? What I love most about this stage of life is the clarity, purpose, and deep sense of achievement I feel—both in my work and personal journey. I’ve reached a place where I truly know who I am and what I want to bring into my designs. Years of experience have allowed me to blend my love for heritage, art, and storytelling into creating spaces that not only look beautiful but also uplift and inspire.
It’s incredibly fulfilling to connect with clients on a deeper level, sharing in their dreams and knowing that the spaces I help create bring both beauty and function to their lives. Personally, this phase is a rewarding balance of passion, accomplishment, and creative expression—one that feels deeply meaningful and aligned with who I am.
Anything else you want to add about life? From the very start of my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with organisations that shape both large-scale urban landscapes and deeply personal spaces. One of the most unforgettable highlights of my journey was being part of the design team for the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I will always cherish.
This experience, along with so many others, has given me a profound appreciation for the diverse scales and impact of design. Whether it’s an iconic landmark or an intimate sanctuary, the goal remains the same—to create spaces that inspire, connect, and endure. Each project has deepened my understanding of how thoughtful design can shape lives and communities in meaningful ways.
Where to find me:
Email: LATHIKA@LNDESIGN.COM.AU
Website: https://lndesign.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lathikanairdesign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lathikanairdesign
LI: linkedin.com/in/lathika-nair-principal-designer-37183624
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" means that true elegance comes from removing the unnecessary, leaving only what truly matters. It’s about creating spaces, designs, and experiences that feel effortless yet profound, where every detail serves a purpose and enhances the overall harmony. In both life and work, simplicity allows the beauty of the essentials to shine through, creating lasting impact without the clutter.
