The Australian design, renovation, and interior architecture community is mourning the loss of Kasia Clarke, the acclaimed Director of Interior Design and co-founder of the renowned design studio Zephyr and Stone, who passed away on Thursday, July 23, 2026.
Together with her sister and co-founder, Ania Forster (née Mikina), Kasia built Zephyr and Stone into one of Australia’s most respected residential design brands, digital resource hubs, and social media platforms.
| Full Name | Kasia Clarke (née Mikina) |
| Location | Paradise Point / Brisbane, Queensland, Australia |
| Date of Passing | July 23, 2026 |
| Role | Co-Founder & Director of Interior Design, Zephyr and Stone |
| Business Partner | Ania Forster (Sister & Co-Founder) |
| Specializations | Kitchen, Bathroom, Laundry, and New Home Design |
Building Zephyr and Stone: A Design Revolution
Founded in May 2017, Zephyr and Stone emerged as a leading force in modern Australian residential design. Kasia and Ania set out with a clear mission: to empower homeowners and design enthusiasts worldwide to create functional, aesthetically stunning interiors.
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Design Philosophy: Kasia championed a philosophy where design must be both effortlessly functional and visually breathtaking. Her clean, light-filled aesthetic became a hallmark of contemporary Australian coastal design.
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Specialized Expertise: Best known for mastering high-impact spaces—including kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, and full new-home builds—Kasia’s expert tips and detailed design guides were regularly featured in national design media and home publications.
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Global Digital Influence: Under Kasia’s creative direction, Zephyr and Stone grew into a massive digital hub across Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook, inspiring hundreds of thousands of followers with practical styling advice, layout guides, and project reveals.
Tributes from the Australian Design Community
Following an emotional announcement shared by her sister Ania, tributes flowed in from former team members, leading Australian design brands, and fellow interior designers reflecting on Kasia’s talent, generosity, and warm spirit:
“Having worked for you guys for a few years way back — I can attest to what beautiful souls you both are! Kasia respected my ideas and boosted my confidence. She built the team from the heart.”
— Miri Interiors
“Kasia was a gorgeous girl, and a beautiful Mum. I always think of you both…”
— Kira & Kira
“Sending all my love and admiration for your bravery carrying on the passion she loved so much.”
— Narrabeen Beach House
“It was a pleasure working with you both, I will always remember her.”
— Sarah Amos Interiors
Industry partners and media platforms—including Adore Magazine, Style Sourcebook, Polytec, Kyal and Kara, and The Stables—also expressed their heartfelt condolences to Ania, Kasia’s children, and the extended family.
Legacy
Kasia Clarke leaves behind an enduring legacy across the Australian interior design landscape. Her influence lives on through the homes she transformed, the team she empowered, and the global community of creators she inspired to build beautiful, functional spaces.