From Marketing to Design: A Conversation with Linda Habak / Studio LHD
In our latest episode of A Designer’s Perspective, we sit down with Linda Habak, Founder, Principal Designer and Director of Studio LHD in Sydney, and co-founder of Rosebriar Developments.
Linda’s story is one many creatives will relate to. While design was her first love in high school, her career initially took her into marketing. It wasn’t until later that she returned to design, drawn back by the need for a genuine creative outlet. That return wasn’t accidental. It was intentional, considered and shaped by experience.
A Practice Built on Both Creativity and Structure
Today, through Studio LHD, Linda works across residential and commercial interiors, with particular strength in renovations and new builds. Her projects span spatial planning, custom kitchens and bathrooms, joinery, lighting, finishes, furniture selection and the finer decorative details that give a space personality.
What stands out in our conversation is her balanced approach. Her work often blends heritage and modern elements, creating spaces that feel refined but still liveable. Beauty is important, but functionality and comfort are never compromised.
The Power of Mentorship
Linda speaks openly about the role mentorship played in her career. Learning from others in the industry gave her clarity, confidence and perspective. It also reinforced something we often discuss on the podcast: design is not just about talent. It is about understanding process, communication and responsibility.
Navigating the design journey requires more than creativity. It requires structure, discipline and the ability to guide clients through what can often be a complex and emotional process.
Personal Projects That Shape Professional Practice
Some of Linda’s most significant growth came through her own property projects. These experiences sharpened her understanding of construction realities, budgeting pressures and the importance of detailed documentation.
Her involvement in Rosebriar Developments beautifully combines her marketing background with her design expertise. It gives her a commercial lens as well as a creative one, something that benefits both her development work and her client projects.
Trust, Communication and the Human Element
A strong theme throughout our conversation is trust. Linda emphasises that successful projects are built on clear communication and mutual respect between designer and client. When trust is present, better decisions are made and the process runs more smoothly.
We also touch on the evolving role of AI in design. While Linda sees value in technology as a tool for efficiency, she is clear that it cannot replace human connection, instinct and experience. Design remains deeply personal. It requires empathy, interpretation and a nuanced understanding of how people live.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
- Design was Linda’s first love and ultimately her true calling.
- Returning to design provided the creative fulfilment she needed.
- Mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping her career.
- The design process involves far more than aesthetics.
- Personal projects strengthened her practical knowledge.
- Property development allows her to merge marketing and design.
- Trust and communication underpin every successful project.
- Technology can support design, but it cannot replace the human element.
- Growth in this industry requires openness and continual learning.
This episode is a thoughtful and honest reflection on building a creative career with intention. Whether you are a designer, developer or homeowner planning your own renovation, Linda’s insights offer clarity around what it truly takes to deliver meaningful, well-considered spaces.
You can listen to the full conversation via the link HERE
Connect with Linda here at her website, instagram and her podcast.
