
As a chef and co-owner of Melbourne favourites Florian and Juniper, Dom Gattermayr’s days are loud, fast-paced, and full. It makes sense, then, that her version of comfort is the ultimate antidote to a busy service. Think: low lighting, soft finishes, a simple bowl of pasta, and a space that feels calm enough to truly switch off. We spoke with Dom about finding stillness after service, and the small rituals she always comes back to.
Yes — my job can be quite noisy and fast-paced, so I definitely want to come home to a very calm and restful space. Nice lighting and some music always help me relax after a busy day.

I have lots of lamps. I think setting a low-light, moody scene is really important. I also love blinds, curtains, and layered finishes that soften a space. Music helps too, and having little things around me that can distract me from the day I’ve just had. I tend to gravitate towards artwork with warm tones like oranges, reds, and yellows. Timber and softer textures also make a home feel really comforting.

Finding those moments within my day can be pretty hard, but I think that’s why I really value coming home and having a nice space to settle into. It’s my spot to switch off and take a break after a really busy day.

It can be quite hard because we normally do a big clean-down at work, so you’re feeling really reset, but then you come home and there might still be jobs to do there as well. But I always try to have a clean space to come back to. I’ll walk home from work, settle into my space, and maybe cook something, read a book, or chill out on the couch with my cat.
Strangely enough, I actually do like coming home and cooking some food, whether it’s a little snack before dinner or something more substantial for the night. I find it really soothing. And often if I cook I don’t have to clean, which is even better!
