Meet Maria Cerne
PRINCIPAL DESIGNER, STUDIO BLACK INTERIORS
Maria Cerne’s passion for design was nurtured from a young age, influenced by her family’s deep roots in Canberra’s building and construction industry. Observing her father and uncle, both Greek immigrants, establish successful careers as entrepreneurs and commercial builders instilled in her an appreciation for craftsmanship and determination.
Today, as an award-winning interior designer, Maria collaborates closely with both builders and homeowners, bringing her expertise to high-end residential projects. Her work has been featured in publications such as Home Beautiful, Adore Home, and Home Design, earning her a reputation for creating interiors that are both timeless and functional.
Specialising in designs for professional families and empty nesters, Maria understands the importance of balancing beauty, function, and livability. As a wife to her sports-enthusiast husband, Michael, and mother to two teenage daughters, she appreciates firsthand how a home should reflect the people who live in it – practical, personal, and effortlessly stylish.
Her design philosophy is straightforward: create spaces that feel intentional, inviting, and timeless. Clients seek out Maria for her ability to seamlessly blend function and beauty, crafting interiors that are both refined and deeply personal.
When not immersed in design, Maria enjoys watching her daughters play soccer, sharing a gin and tonic with friends, and escaping to the South Coast during summer. While Canberra is home, her heart is always drawn to Greece, her favorite place to visit.
CORE VALUES
Beauty and functionality go hand in hand
Maria believes that exceptional design transcends aesthetics, it must also be deeply functional. Every space she creates is thoughtfully designed to enhance daily living.
Design with intention
Taking the time to understand you, your family, and your lifestyle, Maria ensures every design is carefully tailored to reflect your unique needs.
A passion for helping people
Creating spaces that people love coming home to is at the heart of Maria’s work. Helping clients bring their vision to life is not just her job, it’s her privilege and passion.
Honesty and transparency
Maria values clear communication, well-defined boundaries, and complete transparency, recognising that trust is the foundation of every successful project.
A commitment to lifelong learning
Embracing the ever-evolving nature of design, Maria prioritises continuous learning, growth, and collaboration, drawing on a network of trusted experts when needed.