We Meet The Press: Miluska van t’Lam

Stories Interviews We Meet The Press: Miluska van t’Lam

They are wordsmiths who skilfully conjure atmospheres and beautiful décors on the pages of world-renowned magazines; and they all share a deep passion for design…
Usually, they are the ones who ask the questions. However, this time, it’s our turn! 

 

Meet Miluska van t’Lam, Editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar the Netherlands.

Can you recall your first memory about “design”? (a piece of furniture, a book, an exhibition, your home…)

My parents’ home, nestled in the middle of The Netherland’s forest, was a combination of contemporary design and classic icons. I’ve come to strongly believe that your surroundings in childhood are formative in training the adult eye. Years later, when I started working as editor for an interior design magazine, I found I recognised the designers and I went on to learn more and more about the stories behind their designs by visiting ateliers, workshops and families. A true privilege. I prefer atelier visits and this closeness to craftsmanship far more than sitting down to say ‘cheers’ with a glass of champagne and telling the designer how beautiful his or her design is. It feels authentic.

Why did you choose this career, and what do you like the most about it?

I’m truly living my dream. As a child you could find me behind the covers of books and magazines. I told myself a story every night before I fell asleep and created my own handmade magazines from such a young age. Storytelling is my passion, and via storytelling I communicate with people; my second passion. I love to connect, to surprise and to help people create their own style and to be an original. To be the very best version of herself, to really live the life she’s dreaming of. It makes for a far more colourful and interesting world. This is exactly what I do as editor of Harper’s Bazaar. I’ve chosen the world of beauty in the broadest sense of the word, because beauty inspires, lifts you up, offers comfort, sharpens the mind; a sum of fashion, interior, art, travel, beauty, design and above all the people behind the brands. And since I’m part of the team, we’re focusing more and more on ambitious women from all ages, to support them with their career subjects, leadership and personal development. To empower them and connect them with likeminded people, and help to create an inclusive world. To do this via a variety of channels is exciting and invigorating: print, online, podcasts, events – particularly now, lockdown has given us such scope for creativity and innovation. Maybe more than ever. 

If you could go back in time, which designer and/or architect would you love to interview?

Zaha Hadid. One of the most important female designers. Did you know that she worked for the studio of the Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas? I love her for her bold choices and her feminine, sensual yet strong approach. Her exciting performance . I will never forget her designs and her iconic face. 

 

Your favourite motto/quotation about design?

I don’t have a specific quote. I love the idea that design is poetry. A design icon, if you ask me, is Diana Vreeland. She was one of the first editors of Harper’s Bazaar US: “it’s not about the dress you wear, but it’s about the life you lead in the dress.” Although design is a true joy, don’t forget to shape your personality and life too.

 

Your edit on The Invisible Collection?

Burle Wardrobe by Oitoemponto
Lolita Wall Lamp by Humbert et Poyet
Foglia Wall Lamp by Osanna Visconti
Scala Dining Table by Pierre Augustin Rose
Wall Lamp King Sun Murano Green and Blue by Pierre Gonalons
Powder Armchair by Cristina Celestino

Architect or Interior Designer?

Join our trade programme

0
    0
    My Cart
    Your cart is emptyReturn to shop
    Pierre Frey
    F3702002 Hendaye
    Select Material
    • Flint Terracotta
    • Linterno Fabric : St Moritz/Nobili
    Quote