Interior Design . Los Angeles
Interiors . Architectural Concepts . Creative Direction
Spaces with soul. Curated through art, fashion and a life lived in design.
THE STUDIO
A European sensibility. A California spirit.
Founded by Katja Maria Schmolka, Studio Muse 9 is a Los Angeles-based interior design studio creating collected, expressive and deeply personal spaces.
Intrigued by the magical world of design, history, fashion, and film, Katja Maria Schmolka has built a life and career that beautifully blend old-world charm with contemporary creativity. Born and raised in Vienna, she has lived and worked in some of the world’s most inspiring cities - including Milan, New York City, and Los Angeles - each leaving a unique imprint on her creative vision.
Katja’s work celebrates the art of transformation. Through creative direction, home outfitting, and home styling, she brings together design, craft, heritage, and culture to create spaces that tell meaningful stories. She balances a deep respect for the past with the needs of modern living-working lovingly with vintage and salvaged pieces, while also commissioning custom-built furniture and bespoke millwork to ensure each home is both personal and practical. Whether restoring a treasured heirloom, sourcing a rare vintage find, or collaborating with local artisans to create one-of-a-kind pieces, she approaches every project with care, curiosity, and an eye for detail. Each project reflects her refined sense of style-elegant, soulful, and timeless modern-infused with warmth and personality. As the former Fashion Editor in Chief and publisher of ZIP Magazine, an independent fashion and art publication founded in New York City, Katja has long been part of the vibrant creative communities of both New York City and Los Angeles. Her extensive background in fashion styling, prop styling and visual storytelling deeply informs her approach to interiors-where composition, texture, colors, and emotion come together in harmony.
SERVICES
Interior Design . Creative Direction . Interior Styling . Art & Object Curation . Sourcing .
THE STUDIO EDIT