What does a day in the life of Mariah look like?
I’m getting better at creating more balance in my life, so typically my day starts with a coffee and Barre Pilates before I head to the office. I am usually on calls with builders first thing in the morning, followed by clients and once this morning rush is over, I start the day chatting with my team about what the outline of the day is. I always end the day with a walk in the park with my dog or a swim before I settle into the evening.
You are a woman of many talents and the Director of your own business Folk Studio, what inspires and motivates you?
I am always looking for creative ventures for Folk, it’s partly because I personally need to be creative to keep me sane. I’m always inspired by the way people live, their lifestyles, their loves, passions and aspirations. Design is a human centered field, so my intrigue in the way we live our lives has always motivated me to create unique and beautiful spaces for people to thrive in.
What part of your job do you love most?
Seeing my clients live/work in their new spaces. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing every inch of a design that you have spent hours thinking about being fully utilised.
What do you love most about running your own business?
I love the versatility and creative freedom Folk allows me; I never take this for granted.
Today we celebrate ‘International Womens Day’ and the theme this year is Embrace Equity. Equity isn't just a nice-to-have, it's a must-have. A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society's DNA. How does this speak to you and or what does it mean to you?
Being a woman in design and a woman of colour in design is a huge driving force for me and something I don’t take lightly. Having female presentation in all fields is an obvious implementation, however, we still have a long way to go in making this a reality. I think the discussion and slow progression of what gender means for certain people, what representation means and what equality looks like are vital to keep seeing change happen to ensure more inclusive workplaces.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
“Sometimes growth looks like getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. Short-term discomfort for long term peace"
What Luv Lou style do you love most and why?
The Ru - Choc Orange and The Dusty - Rust
