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Q&A's with abstract artist Michael Bond, Earth & Baker, Granite Lane, Wood Melbourne, Lepaar, Woven Trail, Mr Draper, Cocolux, Homeroom Studio, My Menagerie and Marloe Morgan
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Issue #15
ONLINE HOMEWARES MAGAZINE
LEPAARBringing sexy back to the traditional garden hose
DIY: TARA DENNIS SHOWS YOU HOW TO RESTORE A NEST OF TABLES
wood melbourne
woven trail
MR DRAPERQuality fine linen handcrafted and made to be loved
Superb bathroom fittings with a difference
A collaboration with African
artisans creates traditional craft
Earth & Baker
Forged organic pieces that shine with their imperfections
CONTENTS
FEATURES
OUR COVER
10 EARTH & BAKERMichael Budworth and Amanda Barrett forge together organic pieces which shine with their imperfections
18 WOOD MELBOURNESuperb bathroom fittings with a difference that are full of class, style and functionality, crafted cleverly by Oliver Maclatchy
25 LEPAARChristo and Johanna Everingham share a creative vision for design and quality and their first release is a new take on the garden hose
30 MR DRAPERAlistair Birrell crafts quality fine linen products that are made to be loved and to last
36 GRANITE LANEBianca Jowett from Granite Lane, a boutique home and lifestyle store chats with us about her vision for delivering a unique experience
42 WOVEN TRAILHusband and wife duo, Tim and Julie Lewsey collaborate with artisans in Africa to produce a unique blend of contemporary design and traditional craft
50 COCOLUXEarth-friendly coconut wax and pure copper candles are essential to any homes ambience
52 MICHAEL BONDAbstract artist Michael Bond, is a self-taught artist who embraces vibrant colour and gains his inspiration from nature
CONTACT US: [email protected] or [email protected]. Website: www.winkelenmagazine.com
EARTH & [email protected]
Photography: Michael Budworth
REGULARS
PLUS
56 DIY: NEST OF TABLESTara Dennis steps back in time to restore an old a table set and gives it a moden touch
58 MY MENAGERIECaitlin Perkins creates adorable handmade merino wool toys that any child will treasure
62 MARLOE MORGANFunctional tableware designed to enrich the dining experience
66 LUXURY BEDDINGThe KAS Room range is the ideal collection for the warmer months with heavenly bedding and accessories
68 HOMEROOM STUDIORomy Dankner is the founder of the design studio that represents the growing talent of Australian artists and designers
6 We love16 Insta finds22 Moodboard72 Business directory
A selection product pages featuring cushions, lighting, art prints and more
FAVOURITE FINDS
CHICKEN RUN PRINT BY JESSIE BREAKWELLJessie Breakwell exudes the inexplicable air of a famous artist in the making. If the calibre of her current work is an indication of her future artistic success then her goal to have her work hung in one of Australia’s national galleries may be truly attainable. Jessie’s work is offbeat, quirky and full of wonder.Stockist: cranmorehome.com.au
WIRE WAVE BOWLSWoven in a geometric design using thin coloured telephone wire, the shape is formed using a round object. Perfect as a stand-alone piece, or group together to create a bright display on a shelf, side table or cabinet. Handmade in South AfricaTraditional Ilala Palm weaving techniques of the Zulu people.Stockist: safarifusion.com.au
TIGER WALL VASEHave some fun dressing up your herbs and spices with this ceramic tiger wall vase. Stockist: happinessplace.com.au
RIVERIA CERAMIC STOOLThese gorgeous ceramic stools are the go anywhere, do anything, must have accessory. Perfect to sit a drink on, fill an awkward space or even group under a console, they add a splash of colour to any space. Our gorgeous Riviera ceramic stool can be used as a side table, for dining stools, as garden seats or you can sit two side by side for a special coffee table setting.Stockist: Eco Chic
RAINBOW OWL WATERCOLOUR PAINTINGCute and Colorful Rainbow Owl, an original illustration by Littlecatdraw. This is an archival print of my original illustration, printed with vibrant pigment inks on acid free matte paper. Lightly signed in pencil on the back with my signature and the year to date. Stockist: Littlecatdraw.etsy.com
RITUAL TRIBE WALL CROSSESLimited edition individually handmade Ritual Tribe piece by A Boy Named Aaron. Hand detailed feathers, binding, jute fan, beading and tassel.Price $149 each.Stockist: A Boy Named Aaron
@norsuinteriors #norsuinteriors
CURATED NORDIC HOMEWARES356 Wattletree Road, Malvern East VIC
norsu.com.au
1] Spoil the little ones in your life with this gorgeous ‘Hedgehog’ design melamin plate by Danish designer Bloomingville. Stockist: granitelane.com.au
2] King Charles Money Box. Ceramic decorative money box. Stockist: happinessplace.com.au3] Mountain Fern City Pack. The luscious screen-printed Mountain Fern is as detailed as it is bold, with the fern forrest
graphic is subtly offset with a fine-grade pinstripe. Stockist: utopiagoods.com
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Amigos De Hoy - Jute Wall Hangings and Floor Cushions. Soft leather and linen floor pads. Single strap storage tub in Canvas. Jute Wall hangings and plant holder Stockist: amigosdehoy.com
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madeit.com.au/pumpkinpiecreations madeit.com.au/blackeyedsusietoo madeit.com.au/InkandCard
madeit.com.au/threebeansinapod madeit.com.au/StudioAstratta madeit.com.au/dotanddash
THE HANDMADE MARKET OPEN ALL DAY EVERY DAY
Facebook.com/madeit.com.au Twitter.com/madeit Pinterest.com/madeit Instagram.com/madeitmadeit.com.au
CONTRIBUTORS
WE ARE LOOKING FOR REGULAR CONTRIBUTORSIf you are a stylist, retailer or designer and would like to contributor to
Winkelen magazine we would love to hear from you. Please contact [email protected]
LESLYN parkerLeslyn is co-owner of Jasper & Eve, a homewares store with items that help make a difference in the world. With a background in advertising and graphic design, she combined her passion for ‘interiors’ and ‘making the world a better place’ by launching Jasper & Eve with husband Andy at the end of last year. She has a love affair with dark chocolate, hot Summer days and fur-babies of any kind.
tara dennisTara is one of television’s most recognised faces and has been presenting decorating, style and craft segments continuously for over fifteen years. Beginning at Channel Nine on shows such as Our House, Changing Rooms, Burkes Backyard, DIY Rescue and Renovation Rescue, Tara is now at Channel Seven as part of the team on the well loved TV show Better Homes & Gardens.Tara is also the ambassador for Reed Gift Fairs.
JOIN US...Every month we deliver straight to your email box your free monthly Australian online homewares magazine which showcases some of the most incredible Aussie talents.Discover everything you wanted to know about your favourite designers or welcome some new ones into your world with our Q&A’s in every issue. From furniture designers to art and crafts there is something for everyone.All of this is available to you absolutely free and easy to read either through our website winkelenmagazine.com or view through issuu.com. Why not try the issuu app by downloading to your tablet and read your favourite magazine online.If your looking for great marketing opportunities for your business we can help with affordable rates to suit the small craftsperson complete with links through to your own website or social media sites. Contact [email protected] for further details.
Subscribe for free at winkelenmagazine.com (we won’t bombard your email box)
PRODUCT LINKS:See something you love and want to purchase it then simply click on the website link and go straight through to their store.
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@winkelenmagazine.com
FREE EVERY MONTH
Photography: Michael Budworth
Michael Budworth and Amanda Barrett forge together organic pieces which shine with their imperfections
EARTH AND BAKER
Tell us a bit about Earth and Baker?Our little business is quite new, starting in January 2015. It would be safe to say it is also a part time business as Mandy and myself have full time jobs outside the world of ceramics which can be challenging at times. We are a two man band, both making the ceramics with our individual styles. Mandy’s forte is foraging and sourcing all the textures, materials and fabrics we use and I tend to manage the business and marketing side of things. We make one off pieces with no two exactly alike and strive for a organic, imperfectly perfect finish on our work.
Tell us about yourselves and your backgrounds?We met 14 years ago working in a Hairdressing salon together, which Mandy still does as a profession. I on the other hand left the scissors and pursued a career in the airline industry which I have now called my job for the past 8 years. From the beginning of our relationship we have both shared a passion for collecting vintage ceramics which in turn led us to begin pottery classes together. We also love midcentury architecture, art, food, wine and all things nature.
What sparked you to create your business?To be honest Earth and Baker grew out of demand rather than intention. We had been potting for some time when we decided to share our work on Instagram. This first led to enquiries, then orders and then before we knew it we were registering a business. We now have a little home studio in Burleigh Heads with magnificent views of the coast.
What processes are involved in creating your pieces?We both thoroughly enjoy hand building, in particular slab rolling with stoneware clay bodies, so this makes up for the bulk of our work. The process begins usually with fabric and then the piece will be made accordingly, to compliment its textures and design. Once hand formed and bisque fired we apply a variety of organic glazes to enhance the original design. Our stoneware then goes in for its second firing and our fingers are now crossed. Start to finish for us is usually a two week process.
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STORE PROFILE
“As cheesy as it sounds, Mother Nature is definitely a staple for colour and textural inspiration.”
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What inspires you in your designs?As cheesy as it sounds, Mother Nature is definitely a staple for colour and textural inspiration. Vintage fabrics and hand made materials have also been not only a great inspiration but also a good tool for our work. There is something very rewarding about giving new life to somebody’s handiwork through a different medium.
What do you love the most about having your own label?I think we both love having Earth and Baker as a way to share what we love with so many people. We also love the creative freedom that having our own business allows.
Who are some of your favourite designers?We follow many inspirational people and designers on instagram but truthfully it is an architect who would be our favourite designer, Mr Frank Lloyd Wright. Not only was he so ahead of his time, but a real stand alone from the rest which in our books is something to really strive for. We would have to also mention a dear potting friend of ours Chicaco, a gorgeous Japanese lady who used to pot with us at Gold coast Potters.
What is your favourite item in your store right now and why?Mandy and I have been loving dark stoneware clay so we would have to say our recent Mochaccino range of serving ware is our favourite. We have had some great results with the glazes and fabric textures on these pieces. Its a nod to our midcentury influences.
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What has been your biggest highlight?It would have to be when we first stumbled across one of our platters in a food magazine. We had sold it to a prop stylist in Sydney and had no idea if or where it was going to pop up. Squealing in a newsagency can be quite embarrassing. It’s also quite nice to scroll through Instagram and come across a piece that we’ve sold to a follower, to see it through their eyes all styled up and pretty.
What are your plans for the future?The dream is of course to work for ourselves, however the process to date has been so organic that we will probably continue to allow it to grow in its own direction and enjoy each day as it comes. We always maintain the belief that it is leading us to a good place.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about Earth and Baker?It has been and still is quite important for us to maintain our passion for the art so we decided to create an ethos that Earth and Baker could live by. The style of our work would not be swayed by money and that we were always enjoying the making process of our pieces. We believe Earth and Baker is a way for us to step out of our daily routine and burn off some creative energy. So as a business it works well for us.
CONTACT:[email protected]
“The style of our work would not be swayed by money and that we were always enjoying the making process of our pieces.”
INSTA FINDSThere are so many great discoveries in this magical world of Instagram that we have to share our favs!
1] @backstreetshopper – Gorgeous blues for a Thursday morning.2] @black_arrow_candles – A very special order in the making for a super secret customer.
No filter, no photo tweaking - just pretty coloured candles.3] @isleandtribe– The one time Winter looked good . . . by @kawaiian_lion #palms
4] @dear_september – Refill of our stunning teak boards and bowls has just landed in store! 5] @lemoncanary - Peace lives deep within your soul. You can access your quiet place
anywhere and anytime you choose. goodnight my loves..6] @millyandeugene – Our Natural Seagrass Pendant has a lovely organic feel. It is also available in black and in two different sizes.
7] @mossindustry – Throw back Thursday , love this spectacular arch way designed by @mossindustry @thebarnwallington @nikoleramsayweddings.
8] @quietclementine – #quietclementine9] @suiteonestudio – I’m deeply appreciating the extra hours of sunlight a
nd bright garden flowers that make these long days brighter!
Superb bathroom fittings with a difference that are full of class, style and functionality, crafted cleverly by Oliver Maclatchy
WOOD MELBOURNE
Tell us a bit about Wood Melbourne?Wood Melbourne, is my bathroom fittings and fixtures company that basically formed through me not being able to find things I liked - so I started making them.
Tell us about yourself and your background? I love to travel but I am very much a Melbournian - it’s really good place to live and work at this point in time. I have come from a carpentry background, i used to work with my father, building rooftop apartments, it was great fun and creative on a big scale. I’ve always been drawn to creative forms of work, usually with timber!
What sparked you to create Wood Melbourne? I had been working on some designs and models for timber tapware. When I realised
that no one else was doing this, it really motivated me to refine my work and get it out there. That was the beginning of Wood Melbourne and my range of pieces have grown from there.
What processes are involved in creating your pieces? I usually make a simple version of something I have in mind. Once I’ve actually made it and can hold it or touch it, I have a better understanding of it, how it will and won’t work and what aspects of the making process are easy or hard. After that, I’ll sit down and do some drawings, work through options for sizes or changes to dimensions on paper. Then get back into the workshop to make some more samples before it is refined. I like things in life that are reliable and easy
to use, so I like to put my designs to the test before I’m happy to make them available to other people to use. My workshop and yard has different pieces that are mid-test.
What inspires you in your designs? Problem-solving is really inspiring. Sometimes the problems come from designs that aren’t working! Speaking to clients about ideas for customised pieces can be great source of inspiration to refine those designs that have been unfinished or half-formed for a while. I try to get in to our showroom every Saturday when we are open to the public and talk to people in there.I like simple things that are beautiful in a raw and functional way - this drives my design approach.
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STORE PROFILE
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What do you love the most about having your own label?The freedom to do whatever I see fit and having a platform to launch new designs. Our newest pieces include raw brass as a feature material and will be out in a few weeks.
Who are some of your favourite designers?Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa - I did some work in Sri Lanka in my 20s and thought his work was magical. He’s done amazing things with concrete. I was just able to appreciate his design aesthetic straight away and love it.Tadao Ando’s architecture is another favourite. When my daughter was born I was given a wonderful book on his work as a congratulatory gift from a Japanese friend’s father. I wasn’t complaining!
Locally, I like the work from the Lab de Stu guys. Love that Mr Dowel Jones lamp. There’s so much great design work happening in Melbourne, I’m really glad thatI’m working here while it’s all happening. DAAST design from Sydney are making cool stuff too.
What is your favourite item in your store right now and why?We have some of the new raw brass spouts on display in the showroom and I’m really excited about releasing these online in the next few days. They’re simple and elegant.
What has been your biggest highlight?Having a beer with Kevin MacLeod at Grand Designs Live last year was pretty good! He really did know his stuff on all aspects of design.It’s been exciting to realise how many people there are across so many parts of
the country who are designing and creating and supporting those processes. We were so honoured to be able to launch Wood Melbourne on The Design Files. Those kinds of platforms are really beneficial to creative-based small business.
What are your plans for the future?Long-term, I’d like to have a range of household products - outside the bathroom. I have some fixed and free-standing storage pieces that I’m refining at the moment - these will be out later this year.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your business?We love to interact with people using our products and hear from them.
CONTACT: woodmelbourne.com
“I like simple things that are beautiful in a raw and functional way - this drives my design approach.”
Styling: Stephanie Somebody. Photography: Tara Pearce
MOODBOARD WITH Leslyn PARKER from jasper and eve
JASPER AND EVEwww.jasperandeve.com.auLeslyn is co-owner of Jasper & Eve, a homewares store with items that help make a difference in the world. With a background in advertising and graphic design, she combined her passion for ‘interiors’ and ‘making the world a better place’ by launching Jasper & Eve with husband Andy at the end of last year. She has a love affair with dark chocolate, hot Summer days and fur-babies of any kind.
Weaving “Linen Love Wall Hanging with Grey and Slate”Designer: Sky Carter. Price: $360 Stockist: skycartercolour.com.au
GC Triangle Wall ShelvesDesigner: Tim and Sal ScarcePrice from $289.Stockist: green cathedral.com.au
Zebrano Twin Hearts - personalisedDesigner: Melinda Katotriatis. Price $140.Stockist: soakstudio.com
Prints set of 3 – Oslo in ThorDesigner: Adam Jones
Price $15.Stockist: quercusandco.com.au
Pendant ‘Pod NoirDesigner: Loz AbbertonPrice from $820
Hand painted and handmade rope basket No.69Designer: Gemma Patford. Price $60 Stockist: gemmapatford.com
Sticks and Stones StoolDesigner: Ash Allen. Brand Name: Ash AllenPrice $499
Bermuda Bed Headboard in Apricot & GreyDesigner: Lauren Esplin Brand Name: NODPrices start from $119. Stockist: imnod.com
Christo and Johanna Everingham share a creative vision for design
and quality and their first release is a new take on the garden hose
LEPAAR
Tell us a bit about Lepaar? We design and manufacture lifestyle products, things that we love but we cannot find. Quality is paramount. Part of our decision making is “what can we produce here in Australia”, and support local manufacturing and craftsmanship.
Tell us about yourself and your background? Johanna is the daughter of a Steiner family so drips with creativity and innovation. She was mentored by a flamboyant and accomplished bunch of German graphic designers and Brand builders and has been running a corporate branding agency since moving to Australia. I am an interior/product designer nurtured by Melbourne theatre companies, Architects and fabric houses, who I worked with to gain experience. It has been a inspiring pleasure to jump out of the box and realise that it is what I know that defines me, not what I do. I spent many years absorbing the worlds colours and shapes. I know what works and what doesn’t and that allows for a broad view of the world.
What sparked you to create your business? Meeting Johanna, sharing a vision for design, quality and manufacturing in Australia. Being excited about creating modern classics and doing something to oppose the throw away culture that is so predominant at this time. We were over the corporate compromises and saw that now was the time for the challenge.
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Photographed by Nick Leary. Modeled by Esther Cronin and Steve Merrett.
Make Up by Max May. Styled by Tiana Wallace.
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What processes are involved in creating your pieces? We have a handful of products being developed at one time. We move from drawings to prototype quite quickly. Finding exceptional makers is paramount. Road testing is very important. From here we refine, refine, refine until it is whole.At each point we look at a list of factors that tell which product we will launch next. (Investment, margins, access to market)
What inspires you in your designs? Modern Classics. Creating things to pass on and age with you. Simplicity, functionality, beauty. We look to the world and how we love to live for inspiration.
What do you love the most about having your own label? To build an uncompromising brand with ideas that are true to us.
Who are some of your favourite designers? We are very eclectic in our interests. The 50’s chair designers are up there, so too is Christopher Alexanders ‘Pattern Language’, it is the back bone of my philosophy on constructed
spaces and objects within. The Milanese architect Piero Portaluppi has been an inspiration Architecturally and as an object designer. Johanna is obsessed with typography, modern type designers like Neil Summerour or Anders Francker are top of her list and contemporary architect of pretty much everything Zaha Hadid is inspiring in her exploration. Formafantasma.
What is your favourite item in your store right now and why? We are delighted by our first Lepaar product, the garden hose collection, it makes us smile that a garden hose would launch our lifestyle brand.
What has been your biggest highlight? Seeing the wheel turn, seeing something you have designed and produced generate the freedom to support the things and makers we love.
What are your plans for the future? Continue designing the things we love and seeking out the most exceptional makers. We would love to help grow manufacturing in Australia, it makes no sense to us that there is not more.
CONTACT:lepaar.com
Photographed by Nick Leary. Modeled by Esther Cronin and Steve Merrett.
Make Up by Max May. Styled by Tiana Wallace.
“It makes us smile that a garden hose would launch our lifestyle brand.”
The Stripes towels are woven as a 2 tone jacquard pattern which reverses to the opposite design. They are all Pure Cotton Jacquard woven towels, finished with a twill weave contrast trim.Stockist: aurahome.com.au
LOVE
Esrum dinnerware range. Mug, bowl, dinner plate, dessert plate and side plate available. Hand glazed stoneware with a contrasting mix of matte dark taupe and shiny ivory white. The Esrum range is dishwasher and microwave safe.Stockist: May Time
LOVE
Alistair Birrell crafts quality fine linen products that are made to be loved and to last
MR DRAPER
Tell us a bit about Mr Draper? Mr Draper is a Melbourne based home wares and bedding maker. Committed to offering a transparent, locally made and affordable product, Mr Draper crafts quality fine linen products that are made to be loved and to last. The linen comes from the wonderful folks at Merchant and Mills and all of my products are handcrafted right here in Melbourne. The philosophy of Mr. Draper is not about making more ‘stuff’ to go in your home, rather fewer but more considered pieces that you truly love.
Tell us about yourself and your background?I was lucky enough to grow up on a farm just outside of Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road and I’ve been making stuff for as long as I can remember. While I was at university a buddy and I started making t-shirts. This grew into a label called Pigeon Combine and we ended up doing a few seasons, making appearances at Melbourne fashion week before putting it on hold indefinitely. Pigeon was a great experience in starting a business and real learning curve. After Pigeon I wanted to see a different side of the world and do something a bit different. I ended up joining the military and went on to do just over
four years in the Air Force before leaving last year to start Mr Draper. It seems like a really random thing to do but it made (and makes) sense to me. I’m really glad I did it; it’s given me a new perspective and energy.
What sparked you to create your business?I was tired of seeing so much poor quality, thoughtless stuff around people’s homes. Being in the military and even before that I moved around a lot so I never really had the option of owning a lot furniture or nice stuff for my home... It didn’t really trigger until I was cleaning out my grandma’s house when she moved into aged care. She had a bunch of beautiful old linen tea towels that she had been holding onto since the 50s and 60s. Although they had seen a lifetime of use they where still beautiful and fully functional. I decided then I wanted to make a conscious effort to stop buying as much ‘stuff’, instead buying or making a few really nice pieces that I loved.
What processes are involved in creating your pieces?I tend to choose a particular textile and then become obsessed with it. I’ll learn as much as I can and gather lots of different samples.
I generally work with natural fibres, I’ll try to design a product that lets the textile’s innate beauty shine through. I will try to design around any imperfections to enhance and showcase them. The design process (to me) is about adding a utilitarian component and providing a platform for the natural beauty of the textile. There is a lot of trial and error. I’ll take samples along to markets to show people and get their feedback. I find this is particularly important when choosing colours. It’s got to be a balance of what I love and what others love. It can be easy to get a bit selfish when designing but I think it’s important to consider how your customers will use the product.
What inspires you in your designs?I love natural fibres and the textiles that I work with are one of my main sources of inspiration. It seems a little weird but I can catch myself looking at particular piece of linen and just being in love with the distressing and weave. Apart from that I guess just the environment around me plays a big role in how I’m feeling and what I’m designing.
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STORE PROFILE
Photography: Nick Blair Styling: Sarah Bangar
Above and left: Photography: Nick BlairStyling: Sarah Bangar
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What do you love the most about having your own label?The freedom to create my way. Not having anybody pushing you to take shortcuts, become profitable or do things that don’t sit well with you. I can take as long as I need to do it right.
Who are some of your favourite designers?I have more of a fashion background than homewares and interiors and this is reflected in the designers / labels that I love. My favourites are Nom*D and Ann Demeulemeester. Their work and commitment to their brand is inspiring.I particularly love Nom*D, the decades of hard work Margarita has put into the business, all the while staying true to her vision is amazing. I think there is the temptation to follow trends, grow quickly, to take the (seemingly) cheap and easy options of outsourcing everything and moving offshore in order to sell as much stuff as quickly as possible. There is something to be said for growing slowly and staying true to your values and creating something of quality that inclusive of the local community.In terms of local designers I love the work Peak Oil Company is doing. Leigh makes amazing outdoor clothing in Mt Dandenong near Melbourne. Rather than being daggy gear
that you see in most outdoors shops, Leigh is definitely channelling some Rick Owens and a post apocalyptic future when he designs and makes this clothing. It’s really special.
What is your favourite item in your store right now and why?100% Linen Doona Cover in Polar Grey – I’ve never had really nice bedding before. Sleeping on linen is life changing. It is so comfortable and snuggly. I don’t know how I survived for so long without it!
What has been your biggest highlight?I’m not sure about my biggest highlight but a recent highlight has been getting my own studio space. Up until about a fortnight ago I had been working out of home to try and save money while I start. Working from home, particularly if its small is a real challenge, cutting a king size doona on the kitchen table just sucks….A friend and I took over a lease to a great space on Gertrude St, Fitzroy. It’s on the first floor facing a park and has amazing floor to ceiling north facing windows. It’s an awesome place to work and just being there has a real calming effect on me, it allows me to work more logically and deliberately (rather than constantly tripping over stuff).
What are your plans for the future?I want to get setup in the studio and ideally I
would like to build it into a little bit of a retail space where people can come along and touch and feel their product, really getting a understanding of how the product is made. I think we are a bit disconnected with how many textile based products are produced, when you chat to the machinist behind the sewing machine and hear their story all of sudden it doesn’t seem unreasonable to pay a little bit more to support their livelihood. In the longer term I want to build a larger scale in-house manufacturing capability for Mr Draper. I think it is possible for more Australian labels to manufacture locally; we just need to be creative in how we approach the problem and work together to get the solution. Finally I’m dusting off my pattern making skills and working on a design for a very simple men’s and women’s linen shirt for this coming summer.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your business?Mr Draper is more than just the products you see listed, we do custom work on just about everything! Just send me an email with what you have in mind and we’ll start the collaboration.
CONTACT:mrdraper.com.au
the art of photography
“Winter Wonderland” by Kevin Russ, giclee print on cotton rag, oaked framed.Price $520. Stockist: Nathan + JacPhotography: Eve Wilson @evegwilsonStyling: Simone Haag and Nathan + Jac @simonehaag @nathan_jac
1] Morocco” by Georgina Skinner, giclee print on cotton rag, exclusive to Nathan + Jac. Stockist: www.nathanjac.com.au2] Pampa Horse #40. This series has been documented by Argentinean photographer & co-founder of Pampa,
Victoria Aguirre. Price $285. Stockist: pampa.com.au3] Row Art Print. Little Shoal Bay, Auckland. Original Fine Art Photograph by Hilary Upton. Stockist: www.hilaryupton.com4] Slim Aarons Speedboat Landing. Print by Slim Aarons August 1973 - A motor boat arrives at a jetty in Porto Ercole, Italy.
Stockist: www.st-barts.com.au5] Andes region #1. This series has been documented by Argentinean photographer & co-founder of Pampa,
Victoria Aguirre.Pampa. Price $285. Stockist: pampa.com.au6] The Broken Jetty Print. Printed using state of the art printers and ink. Premium cotton/poly blend
360 GSM canvas. Stockist: www.wallartprints.com.au
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Bianca Jowett from Granite Lane, a boutique home and lifestyle store chats with us about her vision for delivering a unique experience
GRANITE LANE
Tell us a bit about Granite Lane and how it was formed?Granite Lane is an online store selling a unique selection of home, living and lifestyle products. Our vision for Granite Lane is to offer our customers a different type of online store. One that chooses to sell quality over quantity. An online store that provides great service with great selection, and an online store that only sells items that look good, are well designed and well made, in stock and in our warehouse.
How did your career begin?After leaving school I worked my way up in the corporate world of recruitment and managed an office within an international business. Since my daughter arrived 18 months ago my priorities changed and being a mum, gave me
a new sense of confidence, which allowed me to take this huge step into creating my own store.
What sparked you to create your business?Granite Lane has been a dream of my husband’s and I since we met, we wanted to work for ourselves and have the flexibility as a family not to be restricted to the standard 7am-5pm hours we have been used to. We are also very passionate about helping people that have been less fortunate than ourselves, and this is an area we feel we can make a difference by having our own business. Eventually we would like to offer employment opportunities and support the local communities in which we work. We are still in the very early stages of making this happen but hopefully within the next 12 months we can start to make this part of our
dream a reality. The business story seems all too familiar in that when renovating our own home over the last few years we found it extremely difficult to find what we were looking for locally here in Perth. We ended up sourcing overseas or interstate but that meant paying large delivery fees and having to wait weeks for our items. We travelled to the UK last year and visited a trade show in London and started to discover exciting new products that had not made their way to Australia yet. Along our journey we have actually realised how much talent there is locally but were not visible to us when we weren’t in the industry so our store is very much a mix of local and international designers aimed at turning the everyday house, into a home.
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Can you tell us where you source your gorgeous homewares from and how do you select the right item for your store?I spend A LOT of time on my computer searching for emerging and award winning designers from all over the world. I start by deciding on a product, which we would like to offer in our store and then I ask myself the following questions when I find something I like. Does this product offer – quality materials? Is it good value for money? Is it too readily available in Australia already? Is it the best of its kind?
Would I want this in my house? After lots of research, if I am still overly excited about the product and must have it, I will engage with the designer and arrange for a small order so we can initially check the quality ourselves before offering in our store.
What do you love the most about having your own store?I love that I can play with my daughter in the morning on the days she goes to day care, without having to rush out of the door to catch a train! I love the flexibility of being my own boss and enjoy working from home and being able to structure my own days.
I also love the hunt. Searching the world for beautiful things is a chore I’ll never get bored with! What interiors loving person wouldn’t love being able to buy all these beautiful products? And lastly, the people. This new world we have entered into is full of so many amazingly talented and generous people. We have been truly touched by the response and support we have been receiving, from not only our customers, but our suppliers as well.Who are some of your favourite designers?At the moment it would have to be the team behind the brand Menu that are inspiring me. Their sophisticated Scandinavian designs
are stunning and timeless. They push their designs with special stand out details and the marble, wood and steel that they use throughout their collection is beautiful.
What do you consider to be a must have item in your home?Plants and flowers, in beautiful vases, pots or hanging baskets. They really help to lift your mood and create style and texture to the room in which they live.
What has been your biggest highlight?Our biggest highlight to date was when we made the website live. There is an incredible
amount of hard work involved in setting up an online store, and the moment we could share with our friends and family, and the rest of the world what we had been up to and then being able to say we actually created that, is pretty amazing. Second to that, was when we made our first sale to someone we didn’t know!
Do you have any advice for our readers who love all things for the home?Start your own scrap-book or online favourites page using Pinterest or Houzz and pull all of the items that grab your attention into that one space. By separating each room and pulling all your favourite pictures together it really
allows you to create a concept and room that flows. I love lots of different styles and I find that this really helps me to create an individual style that works for me, and our home.
What do you foresee as the next big trend?I am in love with the colours coming next season, lots of navy, shades of blues styled with lots of Brass accents. We also have some stunning prints from Denmark arriving soon, which we are debuting in Australia.
CONTACT:granitelane.com.au
The Chamfer Stool is handcrafted from an American Ash timber frame and a plywood seat topped with a felt seat pad insert available in a select range of colours. Stockist: Designtree
LOVE
Husband and wife duo, Tim and Julie Lewsey collaborate with artisans in Africa to produce a unique blend of contemporary
design and traditional craft
WOVEN TRAIL
Tell us a bit about Woven Trail?Woven Trail is a social enterprise that works with artisans in Africa to produce homewares, accessories and art. We mainly operate in Zimbabwe and generally produce our own designs, ensuring that our pieces are a unique blend of contemporary design and traditional craft. Our buying process with our artisans is more collaborative than transactional, with lots of learning on both sides which is enabling us to help grow micro enterprises there into more viable businesses as we grow our own. Our current range features lots of interesting baskets, hand printed textiles and the most incredible trees made from reclaimed industrial wire. I started Woven Trail with my husband Tim. I design and curate the products we sell and Tim helps with the business side and keeps my crazy under control! We work together on our Design-Back initiative; which addresses some of the real needs of the communities we work with through the use of appropriate technology. Our most recent product was a solar phone, light and radio charger which is manufactured in Zimbabwe.
Tell us about yourself and your background?We were both born and raised in Zimbabwe. We knew each other throughout school, but following high school I moved to Australia to study Industrial Design and Commerce whilst Tim went to Cape Town to study Mechatronics Engineering. It was only when he later came to Australia for my brother’s wedding that romance sparked and two years later I was riding an elephant in Africa in my wedding dress.My childhood memories are filled with long road trips to the remote corners of Zimbabwe, camping in the bush and walking amongst animals in game parks – I guess that’s where my spirit of adventure comes from! Some of my strongest memories are of the craft. Zimbabweans are so incredibly talented in this area and it seemed like wherever you stopped on the side of the road there would be someone selling a beautiful basket, tablecloth or carving they had made. Everyone had some form of furniture in their homes that had been made on the side of the road out of grass– from wastepaper bins to bookshelves! Sadly, the more I returned to Zimbabwe as an adult, the less this quality craft seemed to be available.
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What sparked you to create Woven Trail?A couple of years ago we set off on an 15 month overland trip from Cape Town to London. We built the ultimate ‘adventure-mobile’ and drove up the east coast of Africa; camping, connecting and craft trawling. It turns out I have a bottomless well of energy when it comes to looking in every little craft stall along the way. I was always searching for something unique and interesting that would look good in our home in Australia. What I saw was endless replicated souvenirs – not unexpected given that the only market to sell
to was tourists. We thought a lot and talked a lot about the state of the craft industry in Africa and felt that there was so much more potential than what we were seeing. The two biggest limitations are channels to markets beyond tourism and design inspiration. We felt we could help provide both of those (even if just a little bit!). Throughout my return trips to Zimbabwe, I have also seen the results of the government’s oppressive policies over the last 10 years. This has resulted in an economy collapse and fearful tourists who would now rather go to other countries. Many crafters struggled along selling to the few tourists
who did come and to locals but in 2005 the police drove many of them from their stalls and homes and destroyed all the craft. The craft sector still has not recovered and so we wanted to be a part of rebuilding it. What processes are involved in creating your pieces?Typically an idea starts when I see something I like about a particular crafted piece. It may be the technique, a texture or a shape that catches my eye. I will then take that element and build upon it, bringing the influence of contemporary design and current trends. I don’t like to lose the core essence of a traditional technique
and where it’s from so I try to ensure the best element of that craft still shines through. Prototyping can be challenging. It’s easier when I’m in Zimbabwe but we have also developed products over Whatsapp messenger with lots of photos and the assistance of post. All of our products are made by hand; the textiles are block printed or creating using a starch-resist technique unique to Zimbabwe that is similar to batik. The baskets are all made using traditional weaving techniques and the trees are hand bent in wire by a very patient man! The biggest challenge with this approach is learning to upscale and maintain
quality without the crafters getting bored – it’s been a big learning curve for all of us so far.
What inspires you in your designs?Our trip gave me so much inspiration with its variety of landscapes, colours and natural diversity. I will often turn to traditional African craft to look at the decorative patterning and shapes of artefacts. I have a lot of engineering and science in my genes so typically I land up needing to create a sense of order and structure to the designs. This can conflict with the organic nature of handmade products but also leads to some interesting results.The current affairs of Zimbabwe also influence
my designs at times. Check out some of the stories behind our batik patterns. They’re not meant to be taken too seriously and some of them are quite playful but it’s a way of giving a bit of insight into what life is like there. What do you love the most about having your own label?I love the creative flexibility and freedom that comes with it. I really enjoy the ability to explore whatever avenue I like whilst in Africa. It has led me to some interesting places and I’ve unexpectedly connected with some very talented people.
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Who are some of your favourite designers?Brooks Atwood – love his fearless individuality and attitude towards sustainability. John Vogel – a South African designer whose work is so beautiful and a wonderful example of merged craft and manufacture.Stefan Sagmeister – he’s so out there, but he’s a deep thinker and he believes in taking a year off work every seven years for creative inspiration. We’ve already proven we agree with that!
What is your favourite item in your store right now and why?I love our small wire trees! People are attracted to the large ones but often have nowhere to display them in their house, but the small ones are perfectly manageable space wise and just as beautiful. Also our large tote bags; perfect for those uninspired days when you want to add some interest to
your wardrobe, and the leather handles are so beautifully soft and comfortable.
What has been your biggest highlight?My biggest heart leaping moment was when I first saw the batik prototypes. The designs were really different to what the artisan had previously been making but they came out exactly how I had imagined them.My biggest highlight however, has definitely been when South Africa Post went on strike for six months. Suddenly Curlington (the wire tree artist) and I were forced to both upskill really quickly and made a plan to move to airfreight. After a lot of googling on my side and some creative logistics on his, we managed to do it (and meet a deadline I had!) Prior to that, Curlington didn’t seem to think he would be able to pull it off himself, but now he is able to export to any new customers without any assistance. This type of capacity building has always been our intention and it as was a great moment of ‘we’re doing it!’
What are your plans for the future?We’re planning on moving into furniture next year’ starting with a small range. We will be exploring fusing manufacturing with craft to create more interesting products and ones that we can produce more of but still support the artisans just as much. We also plan on building our custom design service in the textile ranges so that other brands can have their own unique print supplied by us.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your business?We have a network of artisans that goes beyond what you see on our website and we are always looking for ways to support them. If you would like to collaborate with us to create something unique for you or your store, we’d love to hear from you.
CONTACT:www.thewoventrail.com
father’s day ideas
The Machinist Apron. This protective apron is designed for hard use and does not compromise on the mobility of the wearer. The brace has been designed to sit on your shoulders.Price $280.Stockist: wootten.com.au
1] Gol Table Top Soccer Game. Play your own competition and enjoy the matches. Price $150. Stockist: optocoonline.com2] Edison 1 light cylinder shaped table lamp in teak. Price $89.95. Stockist: www.beaconlighting.com.au
3] Bamboo and lime wood Scandinavian style mantel clock. Price $59.90. Stockist: www.thedesigngiftshop.com4] La Cafeína - Gold Leopardo. Coffee lovers everywhere will love Art Hide’s new Cafeína cowhide coffee cup holders. Stockist: arthide.com.au
5] The Star Mojo Case Upcycle Studio. Stockist: Upcycle STUDIO6] New Missoni Home 2015 Bathsheet, bath towel and hand towel. Price $95. Stockist: www.top3.com.au
7] Leather Sling Tan Chair. With endless appeal & comfort, the leather sling chair will add some Scandinavian vibes to your space. Price $890. Stockist: www.fentonandfenton.com.au
8] COAST Escape Collection - Holdall. Hand made and is both stylish and versatile. Price $299. Stockist: coastnewzealand.com.au9] Cafe Racer Workshop Soap. The delicious gift for the motorcyclist mad! Price $15.95. Stockist: www.navycrockett.com.au
10] Stonemen Mens Boxer Lake. Price $39.99. Stockist: stonemen.com
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Earth-friendly coconut wax and pure copper candles are essential to any homes ambience
COCOLUX
The Cocolux Australia is a fusion of stylish product design, eco-conscience candle making and wistful art direction. The essence of glamorous coastal living, Cocolux candles were created and are poured on the NSW Central Coast by friends, Meisha Styrkowski and Natasha Nicholson, who share a love for earthy, yet luxurious, modern homewares and interior design.Bringing coconut wax and pure copper together for the first time, Cocolux Australia launches with six fragranced candles in two collections, Sol and Luna.Cocolux candles are scented with the finest fragrances and hand poured from clean burning coconut wax. Organic by nature, coconut wax is made by cold pressing and hydrogenating its raw material - the protected coconut flesh. Unlike many other waxes,
production is sustainable and free from toxins, the use of pesticides and the need for deforestation.The copper vessel was designed with purpose to be re-used as vase, container or planter. Stunning in the home, polished or verdigris - copper’s oxidised, natural patina, copper’s glamorous lustre will add a little ‘lux’ to any stylish interior.A Cocolux candle makes the perfect gift that lasts a lifetime, long after the candle has burned. The smooth white wax, signature re-usable solid copper vessel and fashion-forward textured banana-leaf print packaging position this new and covetable candle company aside from the crowd.
CONTACT:cocoluxaustralia.com
STORE PROFILE
THE SCENTS:
COCOLUX ~ where design and luxury meet Mother Nature.Coco referring to coconutLux meaning light in latin
SOL COLLECTION:earth’s light by dayWild Frangipani infused in coconut waxSweet Pomegranate & Acai infused in coconut waxGrapefruit & Lemongrass infused in coconut wax
LUNA COLLECTION:earth’s light by nightTonka Bean & Lime Zest infused in coconut waxTropical Gardenia infused in coconut waxIsland Fig, Cassis & Peach infused in coconut wax
EARTH FRIENDLY NATURALCLEAN BURNING COCONUT WAXFREE from Paraffin wax | FREE from Palm wax & oil | FREE from Soy wax
We have two new fragrances - Exotic Amber & Spice, in the Luna collection, and Bergamot, Lily and Moss, in the Sol collection. Both of these have a unisex appeal!
Abstract artist Michael Bond, is a self-taught artist who embraces vibrant colour and gains his inspiration from natural beauty in nature
AN ARTISTIC DREAM
Can you tell us about yourself and your background? Born in Melbourne, living in Brisbane, hairdresser by trade, it was only two years ago that I changed my path, taking a bold move to pursue my passion for painting. I decided to spread my wings and see where my artwork would take me. In the beginning when I decided to put myself out to the world, I had a very strong vision in mind and I could see the pathway before me. I felt that if I stayed positive and true to myself, my dream would one day come true! I am a self taught artist and enjoy the freedom to express myself through my work. I enjoy the solitude, being absorbed in the creative process. When I paint, I am free in my own world. There have been many hurdles, bumps
and obstacles along the way and many times feeling that this is just too hard and I could just go back to the old way, but I kept my headspace positive and everyday continue to move forward.
What sparked you to begin your own business? There came a point where my passion for art far outweighed anything else that I wanted to do with my life. Having never been tested by the public as to whether my work was ‘good’, I made the decision to turn to social media. This was daunting at the time as I had never publicly exhibited my work.
What techniques do you use to create your art?
In having no formal training, I have learnt to employ many different techniques when creating my artwork - intuition guides me in creating the overall piece. For a long time, I worried about the right or wrong technique that should be employed to create my artwork, until an artist colleague of mine enlightened me that there is actually no right or wrong way!
What inspires you in your design? Many of my designs are inspired by the natural beauty of nature that surround me in my everyday life. A walk along the beach or a day at the park can inspire my design. For example; the simple colour and form found in a rock pool can spark an idea.
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ARTISTS PROFILE
“The simple colour and form found in a rock pool can spark an idea.”
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Favourite Artwork and Biggest Highlight? My favourite artwork I have completed is ‘Mirage’ as it encapsulates the beauty of nature in its entirety. From beginning to end, this piece of artwork thoroughly reflected my calm state of mind onto the canvas. Being asked to donate a piece of work for the “Peace of Art Auction” (held at Fenton & Fenton), has been a major achievement as I was honoured to support this worthy cause. Having my artwork recognised and sold through leading Australian Interior Design stores has reassured me that my dream is alive and coming to fruition.
CONTACT:michaelbondart.com
Above: Artwork titled ‘Rock Orchid’. Photo via Fenton & FentonBelow: Artwork titled ‘Intangible’. Photo via @alittlelookinside
Above left: “Waters Edge” artwork.Above: “Wash over me”, photography via Fenton & Fenton.Left: “Calmer Days” and “Mirage”.
Tara Dennis steps back in time to restore an old a table set and gives it a moden touch
DIY NEST OF TABLES
DIY PROJECT
Tara takes a trip to the Salvos to restore a nest of tables for less than $120- the cost equivalent of three solid pieces of furniture at $55 each! How does she do it? Seeing the potential in restoring second hand pieces can be a bit of a challenge. The top tip is to look beyond the dust and search for a piece that has good shape, is well made and sturdy, worthy of love and attention and, overall, a piece that has the ability to be transformed into something completely modern and eye catching.
BRING BACK THE LOVE These suite of tables had great bones and a beautiful blonde grain that were discovered after we peeled back the layers! Grab the sand blaster and take each table back to bare timber.
STICKY BUSINESS Work one side at a time to establish a colour sequence for each triangle and carefully glue down using PVA woodworking glue. To prevent the corners from curling and lifting while drying, place flat boards on the top and weigh down with dumb bells overnight. Once they’re dry, carefully trim the edges using a blade, and touch up with extra stain to sharpen the look.
ON YOUR MARQ-ETRY Cut triangle templates in sizes to suit each table. Warning- it’s super fiddly, requires much patience to make sure each piece is cut accurately and a very sharp blade to trim each triangle.
SHINE AND SHEER WITH VENEER Re-stain the legs and inside surfaces with Feast Watson Japan Black Proof tint Stain- this product creates a warm black on furniture and bare floor boards that’s completely on trend at the moment.
Tara Dennis has been appointed as ambassador for Reed Gift Fairs Melbourne (1- 5 August, 2015).
TIP: For a super durable finish, apply three coasts of Intergrain Ultraclear Satin Varnish.
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Caitlin Perkins creates adorable handmade merino wool toys that any child will treasure
MY MENAGERIETell us a bit about My Menagerie.My menagerie is a menagerie of handmade toys that I hand-stitch with care, from lovely merino wool felt. Until recently my menagerie has been more of a hobby of mine, being sidelined by my professional career. However, with a career change in the pipeline, I am able to dedicate more time to my creative endeavor. I am hoping to now be able to grow my menagerie into much, much more!
Tell us about yourself and your background?I grew up in the apple growing part of Tasmania, on a small farm, surrounded by wilderness and animals, both in the wild and on our farm. I come from a creative family who take inspiration from their surrounds. My father is a furniture designer-maker and my sister is a graphic designer by day, as well as a jeweler and photographer. I have spent some time in Japan – travelling, studying and working. The country and its culture has resonated and been impressionable upon me, in various aspects of my life.I’ve been living with my partner in Sydney for the last four years. We have recently moved
to the Blue Mountains for a “tree change”. I feel refreshed in my new surroundings and excited to see what inspiration I take from the beauty of this place in my designs.
What sparked you to create My Menagerie?My menagerie began a few years ago when I came across some incredible toys crafted by the very talented CatRabbit. Seeing the skill and character in her work inspired me to pick up the needle and thread. I started out making toys as a more personalised gift newborn babies and children of loved ones. My menagerie has grown from there. It has been my creative side to life whilst I have pursued a professional career, until recently.
What processes are involved in creating your pieces?I design and hand-make all of my toys. I sketch up an idea, cut it out of a beautiful range of merino wool felt I have sourced from far and wide, hand-sew it together and fill it with stuffing to bring it to life. I also design and make some hand-carved stamps to use on my gift cards. My business cards are made up individually
and each hand-stamped. I use very hands-on processes that are time-intensive. Each piece is a little different because of the handmade process involved, which I feel brings a unique quality to my pieces, unlike some of the mass produced products available. I wouldn’t have it any other way! Using a sewing machine would defeat the truly handmade feel I aim for, with attention paid to each and every stitch.
What inspires you in your designs?Many of my pieces are inspired by my childhood and the animals I grew up with. For example, my parents’ raised orphaned wombats on our farm that loved munching on a juicy carrot. This is why I couple my wombats with a carrot. We had guinea fowls running amuck and wild owls hooting nearby at night. Other pieces of mine are inspired by some of the animals that I just love, like the sleepy sloth and the silly sausage dog. The rosy-cheeked faces are a recent addition, designed at a time when I was feeling a little down living in a big city and I needed something to cheer me up.
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I have been influenced by my creative family, who also pay particular attention to detail and take great inspiration from their surrounds. To an extent, I feel my designs also embrace some Japanese aesthetics, like simplicity and beauty in imperfection.
What do you love the most about having your own label?I can design and make up pieces that I like and appreciate, and hope that others will take a fancy to them too. I have control over the whole process, which allows me to make sustainable choices. I have chosen to make my toys from a high quality and natural material – 100% merino wool felt – rather than its synthetic counterparts. I have chosen to use stuffing that is made from recycled plastic containers
to reduce my environmental footprint in making consumable products.
What is your favourite item in your store right now and why?That is a hard one. The sloth is an all time favourite of mine, but I am also excited about the recent addition of my rosy-cheeked faces. They put a smile on my face and I hope they will put a smile on the face of others too. What has been your biggest highlight?It would have to be having a debut stall at The Finders Keepers Market in Sydney last December. It was a dream come true for me! I love going to Finders Keepers Markets as is, and so to be part of one felt like Christmas had come early for me. I was so excited to be part of a cohort of very talented creative. I was humbled and ecstatic at the same time with how my toys were
received. The experience reassured me that it is not only me who enjoys my designs, and excited me for the future of my menagerie.The experience essentially launched my menagerie into the creative world. Being on the Finders Keepers’ directory continues to open up exciting opportunities for my menagerie.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your business?I often get asked if I make this or that. I may not have yet, but I am more than happy to give it a go! I have been challenged with some interesting custom orders so far, like an orca. It is a great way to expand my repertoire and put my design skills to the test. It is exciting to see how a custom order comes to life.
CONTACT:mymenagerie.com.au
“Each piece is a little different because of the handmade process involved, which I feel brings a unique quality to my pieces.”
Functional tableware designed to enrich the dining experience
MARLOE MORGAN CERAMICS
STORE PROFILE
Tell us a bit about Marloe Morgan Ceramics?Marloe Morgan Ceramics is a Design and Ceramic studio based on the Southern Gold Coast, Australia. Combining hand made processes and a respect for form and function, MMC creates functional tablewares designed to enrich the dining and entertaining experience. Offering both retail, bespoke and hospitality lines crafted using the very best high fired Australian stoneware.
What sparked you to create your business?I had been playing a little with clay for a few months of an evening and I really just feel in love with the medium. The creative possibilities of clay are endless and I found myself so inspired to change the way I was living. I left my fulltime job to work in a café so I had more free time to be in the studio. I guess the
business was a by-product of the creative process and a means to support my clay habit.
What processes are involved in creating your pieces?The process varies from piece to piece depending on what I am creating and whom it may be for. Some days I throw on the potter’s wheel and others I hand build. I also slip cast using plaster moulds of pieces I originally throw on the wheel. Most of my work that is intended for commercial use is slip cast to
ensure consistency. I love being able to work with my hands in different ways from day to day… It keeps me on my toes.
What inspires you in your designs?At the forefront of my creative process is definitely form and function. I only seem to create functional pieces mostly for the table. I love food and the dining experience so I am definitely inspired to create works that are a joy to experience food from. Weather that is a playful spotty bowl to enjoy breakfast from or
“I love food and the dining experience so I am definitely inspired to create works that are a joy to experience food from.”
a moody matte black serving board you might take on a romantic picnic. I like to think I am enhancing experiences people are sharing with loved ones while using our pieces.
What do you love the most about having your own label?I absolutely love working for myself! I love freedom of producing work when I am feeling inspired and I enjoy the challenges of problem solving. Every day is different and you never know what the next day will bring. I feel so grateful for the opportunity to create bespoke work for so many different clients. I love pushing to develop and create works that are stronger and more user friendly than those pieces that have come before.
Who are some of your favourite designers?I love so many different designers and makers! Alexandra of NILASDOTTER, Clair Catillaz of CLAMLAB and Alana Wilson are all amazing ceramicists and create work I am so taken by.
What is your favourite item in your store right now and why?My favourite piece if I had to pick would be my ‘wide bowl’ from the PRESSED collection. It is hand built in speckled clay with a big orange ring hand painted in the middle. It is fun and functional and makes me smile.
What has been your biggest highlight?Having the opportunity to create work for cafes and restaurants would have to be my greatest highlight. It really is where my passion lies. I hope to work with chefs to create dinnerware specific to seasonal menus.
What are your plans for the future?I am currently working on a Café Series for use in the commercial space. I am hoping to launch that in some amazing colour ways over the next two months. Then I will focus on expanding the range into plates, bowls and serving ware for restaurants. I hope to continue to work one on one with clients to create wares that people will hopefully love using as much as I love making them.
CONTACT:marloemorganceramics.com.au
The KAS Room range is the ideal collection for the warmer months with heavenly bedding and accessories
LUXURY BEDDING
Kas have released their new SS15-16 collection by KAS Room which is a cohesive collection of heavenly bedding, cushions, throw rugs and towels that showcase a contemporary, fashion-forward design aesthetic. The range is the ideal collection for the warmer months, featuring a striking nautical-inspired colour palette with complimentary hues of blues and greens.A selection of graphic prints in neutrals of charcoal and white, with highlight tones in citrus, blue and teal. Unique design detailsfinish off these covetable styles, with the likes of hand-drawn prints, checks, contrast piping
and herringbone featuring throughout. The range also includes a selection of soft furnishings with tactile cushions that have an organic, almost rustic feel. Standard and Euro cushions feature distinctive prints in colours such as denim, charcoal and aqua. Throw rugs and towels feature a similarcolour palette in two-tone designs or zig-zag patterns. Throws are lightweight knitted cotton, making them an ideal choice for decorating throughout Spring and Summer.
CONTACT:kasaustralia.com.au
STORE PROFILE
Romy Dankner is the founder of the design studio that represents the growing talent of Australian artists and designers
HOMEROOM STUDIOS
A bit about HOMEROOM Studio and how it was formed? The concept behind HOMEROOM studios’ designer agency that represents a suite of highly skilled artisans and stockists in exclusive boutique stores locally and internationally. I wanted to create a studio that inspires people with beautiful lifestyle and homeware products. It’s not just about the product- it’s also about the story behind it, and the people who created it. There is so much Australian talent waiting to be discovered.
Tell us about yourself and your background?A year in India opened by senses to colour, textiles and interiors and from there I knew my calling. I’ve managed several business along the way:
a children’s agency representing high end labels such as Oilily, Milk, Mustela and Room Seven just to name a few. This lead to the launch of ‘Cushy Couch’, a brand creating high end children’s furniture that found itself amongst the many boutiques locally and internationally. I was thrown into the depth of marketing, manufacturing and the world of retail and loved it. I then explored the world of interior design and, after the birth of my 3 child (shop is definitely closed now!) I’m concentrating on HOMEROOM studio’s designer agency arm.
How do you select the right artist for your collection? What are you looking for?When I meet the artists and their work for the first time, I need to feel an immediate connection, feel excited and inspired.
I love discovering those with a clearly defined message that aren’t afraid to evolve and explore their talents.
Do you have a favourite piece in your collection?I know it may sound very diplomatic, but I really love them all as they have the ability all talk to me in different ways.
Do you have any tips in how to choice the right piece for your home? I always look at a space and ask myself “what does this space need?” Is it calling out for an injection of colour, something edgy or a little punch of personality? But most importantly, I believe you should be surrounded by pieces you love.
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Who are some of your favourite artist at the moment?I really love Colin Pennock. My home is very whimsical, with a soft palette of mints, musky pinks and coppers – and I would love one of his oversized pieces on my walls!
What has been Home Room Studios biggest highlight?Discovering artists that I can have a meaningful relationship with and ensure their craft is recognised by the industry. Another OMG moment was being featured in Modern Home Magazine who have been incredibly supportive of my latest project.
Do you have anything new in store for Home Room Studio? Absolutely! We are excited to be exhibiting at Life Instyle Melbourne this coming July/August so make sure you come and see us at stand 2313. There are also some new talents coming on board so stay tuned and make sure you follow us on Insta @homeroomstudio
CONTACT:homeroomstudio.com.au
ARTIST BIOS:
SAY HOLA is a collection of art by Melbourne based artist, Maria Flores. Her works celebrate cultures, traditions, nature and gypsetters (those she meets along her travels). An amalgamation of layered patterns, colours and textures in a spontaneous creative explosion set the tone for her designs. Her work has a purpose and is created with good intention, love and meaning which makes you feel an immediate strong connection to every piece.
FELIZ: Meet Jane and Mel. Their bright and playful bedlinen (a true reflection of their personalities!) are an instant attraction. Using organic and sustainably produced fabrics, the designs are lovingly hand screen printed using water based inks, in their studio in Geelong.
YELLOW FINCH: With a background in beauty therapy and a passion for interiors, Tahlia founded Yellow Finch. A boutique candle studio with a design inspired by simplicity, utility and beauty. I was drawn to her products for their clean, Scandinavian inspired design using monochrome tones, marble and copper which are hot right now!
MAURICE GOLOTTA: Walking into MSG gallery in Brighton is like walking into a candy store. Immediately you are drawn to the bursts of colour and assortments of different mediums to choose from. Whether you embrace the oversized graphic posters reflecting his Italian heritage, or gravitate to the display of resin tiles his quality and design is paramount.
BROWN PRINTS: Stuart is a reputable photographer whose passion for travel has sparked an intense desire to share his stories. His photography captures moments, scenes, landscapes and turns it into works of art by combining his photography and design. Each photograph is rich in detail and familiarity yet it’s edgy with the use of bold imagery and a spontaneous pop of colourwhich turns heads.
LAELIE BERZON: Laelie Berzon is a Visual Artist, living and working in Melbourne, Australia. Berzon paints to understand her life as she’s living it, piece by piece, blending the dramatic influences of her Eastern European heritage with her modern perspectives to create a visual and emotional unfolding through the textural interchange of painting, collage and mixed media. You can’t help but feel such an immediate connection to her and her work
Pictured left to right: Artwork titled ‘Afloat’ by Laelie Berzon; Yellow Finch boutique candle studio; Artwork titled ‘Calabria Black’ by Maurice Golotta.
Left: Say Hola is a collection of art by Melbourne based artist, Maria Flores.Above: Feliz designs bright and playful bedlinen in their Geelong based studio.
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