Inside Alice McMullin's Vision for Lasting Design

“Homewares should have a purpose — they should be used and loved. It’s one thing to have a house that looks like a showroom, but you want pieces that are functional and still look great. In fact, they often look even better with use.”

Forging Lasting Legacies

Alice's journey reflects her steadfast commitment to natural materials and sustainable practices. Over the years, McMullin has evolved from a niche brand into a leading tastemaker in the world of intentional design. Recently, the company embarked on a comprehensive rebranding initiative, aligning its identity with its core values. This transformation has paved the way for an exciting partnership with Australian rug brand Double, a brand equally dedicated to sustainability and thoughtful design. Together, they have introduced a collection that raises the bar for design standards with Double’s inaugural natural range of rugs, crafted from fully sustainable materials. Each piece not only embodies luxury and quality but also offers the practicality of being machine washable — hallmarks of both McMullin and Double's mission to provide accessible, premium products that enhance the liveability of any home.

A Minimalist Approach

Intentional minimalism defines the character of Alice’s home. Her aesthetic showcases a thoughtfully curated selection of distinctive antiques, beautifully juxtaposed against a serene neutral palette that fosters a sense of peace in the place. This cherished space is designed to grow and adapt with her family, adorned with beautiful yet functional pieces like the Awa rug from the McMullin x Double collection. With its abstract taupe shapes on a light canvas, this minimalist piece seamlessly integrates into the timeless design framework Alice has established. Named after the Māori word for "river," Awa symbolises the gentle flow of freshwater from its source, reflecting a deep connection to the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, from which Alice was raised. Serving as a tribute to nature, the rug invites the outdoors in and embodies the concept of circularity within the living space — a love letter to the natural world.

Embracing Life’s Beautiful Messes

Alice’s collaboration with Double rugs was born from her own search for a well-crafted, washable rug that could meet the demands of family life. Inspired by Double's mission to combine stunning designs with modern washability, a partnership with McMullin naturally emerged. As the vision for the Awa rug took shape, it became clear that the design needed to embody enduring qualities. Crafted from pure New Zealand wool and organic cotton, this piece seamlessly combines sustainability and luxury in a beautiful, conveniently washable package — ready to embrace the joyful (and often messy) moments that define a growing home. As a busy mom, Alice understands the challenges of raising an active family while maintaining a beautiful space. She believes that furniture should be both aesthetically pleasing and built to last. Thus, the Awa rug was born.

Homes Built to Last