About me

I would like to tell you a bit more about me, Mirjam de Bakker and my philosophy as a Repat and as a designer.

When asked to describe myself, I feel that after living and working abroad in some amazing places for such a large part of my life, the word ‘nomad’ appeals to me most. I have no ‘roots’  and therefore am able to feel at home anywhere in the world.

The exposure to new places and cultures have definitely broadened my horizon and helped me to develop an attitude of curiosity and wonder, because the next adventure is always right around the corner!

I carry these experiences with me and (sub)consciously infuse them into each design process.

Pakistan is where my love for beautiful fabrics and colours took root. I was lucky enough to be able to co-design several pieces of furniture for our home, based on local traditions but with a modern twist. Working with local artists, I’ve seen how much added worth comes from craftsmanship, attention to detail and genuine care for the material and in turn I’ve become more interested in and aware of the story behind an object.

Singapore gave me the opportunity to learn and practise photography. The light is so much warmer in Asia; I wanted to capture the architecture and ‘couleur locale’ on our travels, in a way that did it justice, both to frame memories as for my ‘design databank’. I became an entrepreneur when I started ‘Flynnish’. Located in a beautiful environment, it was a shop full of colourful items from upcoming European designers, focussed on small furniture items, decoration, accessories and gifts.

During our time in Londen I trained at the prestigious Inchbald School of Design, where I obtained diploma in Architectural Interior Design.

Once back in The Netherlands, I registered MstudioBees. We’d just bought a house from 1903, that had not been touched since the ’70s. I re-designed it from top to bottom and oversaw all construction. The house is now totally up-to-date and is a beautiful mix of classical elements and modern comfort.

The result? A nice flow throughout and a home that is serene, warm, subtly colourful and in harmony with the people living here.

Since then I have worked with amazing clients on projects in both London and The Netherlands.

Hilversum is our home now, but I work throughout the country, and have designed for both residential & commercial clients in Rotterdam, Breda, Almere and Utrecht. My view on it is that the ‘click’ with you is more important than your postal code!

If you are interested in an interior design by MstudioBees, please contact me and we’ll plan a phone call to see if we ‘click’ and to figure out where I can add value to your design plans and dreams.