Catching Up With: McMullin

McMullin a homewares brand dedicated to create pieces for living. Designed by Alice McMullin, in Sydney, Australia, we catch up with the designer on where they are now - you can read our past interview with the brand here. 

It’s been a little while since our first interview in December 2023. How has McMullin evolved over the last few years?

One of the biggest changes has been our rebrand to McMullin—a refined brand identity that reflects our commitment to the art of purposeful living. We wanted to create something that felt more aligned with who we are today, stripping back to the essentials and focusing on timeless, considered design.

As part of this, we also undertook a complete website redesign, which—anyone who’s done this will tell you—is an absolute labour of love (and many sleepless nights). But we’re so happy with the outcome—a site that not only reflects our aesthetic but also enhances the user experience, making it easier than ever to interact with our collections in a meaningful way.

McMullin is focused on creating pieces for living. How has being a mother to young children influenced your approach to design? 

Being a mother to young children has completely shifted my perspective on design. No matter how much you try, food, pen, and little fingerprints always find their way onto furniture! I’m on a mission to create pieces that are designed to last—using top-quality, durable materials, offering washable covers and rugs, and selecting colours that help hide marks. Good design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about how a piece fits into real life.

How do you recommend people approach decorating their homes and choosing furniture when first embarking on their interior journeys?

Interiors take time to build—they should feel like an extension of you rather than something rushed or overly curated. I always recommend making considered, conscious purchases and investing in materials that will last. Solid, sustainably farmed wood over veneers or MDF, fabrics that wear well, and pieces that will evolve with your space. Start with the essentials and layer over time.

What has been one of the most loved/asked-for pieces you have designed over the years?

Our Beatrix Bedhead is a forever favourite. It’s a simple yet statement-making piece that people keep coming back to.

How do you go about striking the balance between designing something new and unique while also being timeless?

Timelessness is all about proportion and materiality—focusing on classic forms, neutral palettes, and quality craftsmanship rather than chasing trends. I always ask myself, will this still feel relevant and well made in ten years? If the answer is no, it needs refining. 

What has been one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned as a designer and business owner?

To trust my instincts. Some of the best decisions I’ve made for McMullin have been led by gut feeling—whether it’s choosing the right collaborations, refining a design, or knowing when to pivot.

Collaborations have become a regular part of McMullin, with a table lamp for Assembly Label, a natural washable rug with Double Rugs, and most recently vases with florist September Studio. As a creative, what do you love most about collaborating, and what makes a collaboration a success?

I love the energy that comes from creative partnerships. There’s something special about working with people who bring a new perspective—whether it’s a different material, process, or design approach. The best collaborations feel effortless and organic, where both brands share the same values. It’s about complementing each other rather than competing.

What are the pieces in your home that you cherish the most?

I’ve been collecting vintage portraiture for years, and they take centre stage in my house. I love the character and history they bring to a space.

Who are your favourite interior designers to follow for inspiration?

There are so many, but I love designers who balance restraint with warmth—who create spaces that feel personal rather than overly styled.

Dream home you would love to see McMullin in?

My dream beach house in Patonga—a small fishing town that reminds me so much of my home in New Zealand. It’s surrounded by mountains and water and filled with authentic characters. That mix of raw nature and quiet charm is exactly the kind of space I’d love McMullin to sit in.

Where to from here? What’s next for McMullin?

We’re expanding beyond furniture into community and education—helping people create things, and connect with like-minded creatives. We want to encourage people to engage with design in a more hands-on way, whether that’s through learning a new skill or simply understanding the craftsmanship behind a piece. There’s so much more to come.