Mieke van Rooyen is a Pretoria-based interior designer and co-founder of Mindful Makers Toys and Furniture. With over eight years of experience as a Senior Interior Designer, Mieke has contributed to award-winning residential, retail, and hospitality projects across South Africa. Her design philosophy has always centered on creating spaces that not only look beautiful, but also enrich the way people live and connect.

When she became a mother, Mieke’s perspective on design deepened. Watching her children explore the world sparked a passion for Montessori principles — the belief that children thrive when given the tools and freedom to learn through play. This inspired the creation of Mindful Makers, where design meets childhood development.

At Mindful Makers, Mieke combines her professional eye for detail and love of natural materials with her dedication to purposeful play. Each handcrafted toy and piece of furniture is designed to encourage independence, curiosity, and creativity in children, while still being timeless and beautiful enough to complement the home.

For Mieke, Mindful Makers is more than a business — it’s a way to bring her love of design, family, and mindful living together, one puzzle and piece of furniture at a time.