Together with Muuto, we were given a look inside the bright period apartment of graphic designer and founder Jessica McGowan. Born and raised in Australia, she lived in New York for seven years before moving to Berlin in Germany with her boyfriend. Her minimalist home is filled with plants, family heirlooms and aesthetic touches – a place to rest, work and welcome guests.
Jessica, we're delighted to be here!
What was it like moving from New York to Berlin?
Berlin is interesting and really small compared with New York, but in a way that makes it cosy too. To me it feels more like a small town. We made lots of friends as soon as we arrived. The party scene is crazy and fun, but you can also lead a quieter life here, because it's really relaxed.
Tell us about your home – how and where do you live?
We live in a period apartment that's more than 100 years old in the Kreuzberg district. It's wonderfully bright and warm even in the morning, as the sunlight streams in through the large windows. We have a huge bay window that projects out from the building, so you can stand there and watch the whole street.
We also have a balcony, which I really like. Coming from Australia, I'm used to living in a house with a garden or outdoor space. I've now lived in apartments for more than ten years, and it can feel very cramped. A balcony makes a big difference – that little bit of outdoor space, even in winter.
What has changed in your life since you moved to Berlin?
I've become a real minimalist. In New York we lived in a loft, and there was a lot going on – a mix of lots of different things. Here in Berlin we prefer things more neutral and minimalist.
But one of the biggest differences in moving from New York to Berlin is that we can invite people into our home here, because we now have the space. We love hosting – we'd do it all the time if we could.
What's a dinner party at your place like?
We're lucky that many of our friends are chefs or work in the wine industry. My boyfriend is a great cook, so if nobody else is cooking, he does, while I take care of the decorations and flowers. Every Saturday there's a farmers' market around the corner, where I buy flowers.
We've heard you're a bit of a collector?
Yes [laughs]. Since I work in publishing and graphic design, we have a lot of photo books. I also love collecting unusual stones. If I find a really beautiful little stone or a shell, I take it home and add it to my collection. As an Australian beach person at heart, I love these little organic treasures.
How else do you bring the spirit of Australia into your apartment in Berlin?
My parents in Australia are slowly downsizing and parting with their things, so I always come back with a suitcase full of little treasures. The latest addition is the Chinese dinnerware my father gave my mother for their first wedding anniversary.
I'm very sentimental – I love old things that we've always had and that hold memories, no matter what they look like.
What do you do to really relax at home?
I love gardening and I'm a big plant lover. Last summer I grew lots of vegetables on my balcony, which was great. And we have wonderful sunlight, so I like reading on the sofa.
Which new Muuto designs are on your wish list?
What I particularly like about Muuto's new designs are the great colours – I'd love to have every piece in my apartment! But my absolute favourite is the Muuto Strand table lamp: minimalist, yet a real eye-catcher.
New from Muuto
Jessica, thank you so much for these fascinating insights!
