Philia
Magazine

Clive Lonstein is a New York–based designer and architect working across interior architecture and furniture design. His practice is rooted in a refined approach to minimalism, where material richness and spatial clarity coexist.

Drawing from a wide range of influences—including art, travel, and nature—Lonstein develops interiors that balance form, color, and texture with a strong sense of proportion. Trained as an architect, his work reflects a disciplined yet expressive sensibility, where each element contributes to a cohesive and considered whole.

Alongside his interior work, Lonstein has expanded into furniture design, exploring new material expressions while maintaining a focus on functionality and understated elegance. His work is defined by a quiet precision and a commitment to creating spaces and objects that are both enduring and deeply personal.

Beth Diana Smith is the CEO and Principal Designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, a full-service studio dedicated to creating curated homes defined by thoughtful detail and bold expression. Known for her eclectic yet intentional aesthetic, Smith approaches each project as a narrative—shaping spaces through renovation, bespoke elements, and carefully sourced pieces that reflect the individuality of her clients.

Before founding her firm, Smith spent over a decade in corporate accounting and finance at companies including Johnson & Johnson and Viacom before pursuing interior design full-time at the New York School of Interior Design. Her background in finance continues to inform her practice, bringing a strong foundation in budget management, strategic planning, and operational leadership to her creative work.

Smith has appeared on NBC and HGTV and has been featured in publications including House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Real Simple, Business of Home, and The Wall Street Journal. She is a Founding Member of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, an Associate of the American Society of Interior Designers, and a member of the Design Leadership Council. In 2025, she received the Rising Star Award from the New York School of Interior Design.

Brooke Mennen-Talsma is the founder of Brooke MT Interiors, established in 2023 after nearly a decade of experience across several design studios. Based in North Liberty, Iowa, she launched her independent practice with a desire to create a more intentional, flexible, and personal approach to interior design, balancing family life with her creative vision. Her studio quickly grew through referrals and social media, allowing her to carefully select projects that align with her aesthetic and values.

Brooke’s work is defined by a thoughtful balance between beauty and functionality. She focuses on high-quality materials, refined finishes, and durable solutions suited for everyday living. Known for her use of detailed 3D visualizations, she helps clients clearly envision their spaces from the earliest stages, creating cohesive, sophisticated interiors that feel both elevated and warmly livable.