Matthew Miller is the founder and principal of StudioLAB, a creative multidisciplinary design studio with a diverse portfolio of high-end residential and commercial projects in New York City and the Hamptons. Prior to forming StudioLAB in 2007, Matthew apprenticed at several architecture firms in New York City, where he designed and managed projects for residential, commercial, and retail clients, and participated in two award-winning competition teams for post-Katrina New Orleans low-income housing. A true born and raised Manhattanite and son of a notable painter, Matthew understands the importance of imagination and creativity and seeks to intertwine his artistic roots with the fabric of the city through design. Learn about Matthew Miller and his studio in today’s Designer Friday.
This double-height living room is adorned with crisp white shiplap paneling, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Andrew Joseph: Describe your design style as if you were explaining it to someone who cannot see.
Matthew Miller: I am a modernist at heart and love Scandinavian, midcentury furnishings. I appreciate clean lines, simplicity, and functionality.
AJ: What is something you hope to see trending in architecture + design in the future?
MM: I hope to see the industry go back to the basics. Simplicity and minimalism. I’d also love to see the integration of more eco-friendly architecture, and expect to see advances in VR/AR technology for architecture & design.
A curved section of windows provides stunning views of the city, while a sculptural metal chandelier anchors the dining table in this open space.
AJ: If you weren’t an architect, you’d be a ….?
MM: Chef & winemaker. I love to cook with a glass of wine in hand. I’ve designed a few custom wine displays and it’s always fascinating to learn more about the process through that experience. It’s a fun challenge to strike a balance between creating a functional wine cooler that meets all desired needs while still being an aesthetically interesting accent piece.
AJ: What’s the weirdest thing a client has ever asked you?
MM: I was once asked to design a coffee cup holder next to a toilet. That was certainly one of the more unique requests!
AJ: What’s your design pet peeve?
MM: One of my biggest design pet peeves is a door that opens OUT to a bedroom or bathroom. It has to open IN!
This clustered bauble chandelier by Bocci adds a touch of coastal charm to the open-concept home. The dining room flows directly into the kitchen, along with the palette of light green, blue, and off-white echoing the beachy vibes of its location.
AJ: What would your dream project or dream client be right now?
MM: A large oceanfront new construction modern home. Our studio works out east in the Hamptons quite often, and I love incorporating my modern style into a quintessential summer retreat. I find the juxtaposition between contemporary and coastal styles to be quite timeless. We’re also a full-service firm, meaning we can serve as the architect, builder, project manager, interior designer, and purchaser throughout the project. I love collaborating with other teams, but being able to own a project from conception to completion is really special and helps our clients feel at ease throughout the process.
AJ: How would you define your work in three words?
MM: Clean, crisp & warm.
AJ: What might the architecture + design world look like in 10 years?
MM: More automation. I’d expect to see AR/VR and immersive technology helping design & shape things. Ten years is not really enough to drastically change the field – just how we work it.
Prior to forming StudioLAB, Matthew studied at the University of Southern California and the internationally acclaimed Danish Design School. He went on to apprentice at several architecture firms in New York City where he designed and managed projects for high-end residential, commercial, and retail clients. A true born and raised Manhattanite and son of a notable painter, Matthew understands the importance of imagination and creativity and seeks to intertwine his artistic roots with the fabric of the city through design.
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