In typical Capricorn fashion (we are known as the oldest of the astrological signs) I am a lover and collector of items from the past. I like to keep things forever and expect them to last for longer. Artefacts that in the eyes of others have seen better days, can make a home with me. From time to time though I do covet the new and the fresh and these are the pieces by modern Australian design brands that make the wish list.
The Alma by Armadillo
Crafted from a cut Persian knot using a silk and wool blend, nothing feels more luxurious than this ultra-low pile rug. Each piece is one of a kind and develops its own patina thanks to an oxidation process creating inimitable colouration. I adore the calming palette and the way this piece is instantly recognisable for its luminosity alone.
The Johnson Modular by MCM House
Did we see Charles Hinckfuss from MCM House becoming a modern Australian design icon? This new collection called Club Cabana captures the essence of laid-back luxury with new materials like brushed stainless steel and rich blue upholstery. The collection is another crowd pleaser with the Johnson modular sofa bringing effortless comfort and the Australian outdoor lifestyle attitude inside.
Puzzle Tiberio Coffee Table by Sten
Sten Galleria has launched just this year but their pieces crafted by artisans in Melbourne hit home in the right way. Using repurposed Italian Tiberio offcuts I love the simplicity of this tessellated coffee table that doesn’t feel like an imposition in a tight room but is just the right size for ones books and a coffee cup.
Blankets by Bemboka
Undeniably my greatest indulgence. With roots tracing back to a knitting factory in Australia that has been producing textile goods since the 60s, Bemboka (translates as high peak in local Indigenous language). The emphasis here is on luxury fibres – superfine merino, cashmere, pure cotton – all crafted with a sustainable mindset. The the angora and merino wool blankets earn their place on my bed all all year around but the cotton for summer months still feels as luxe. Always in the most classic tones, these are stealth luxury, or in other words The Row of the blanket world.
Modular shelving by Skupa
My habit of collecting books means I spend a lot of time thinking about bookshelves and I recently discovered Skupa for an easy modular system with metal shelves that feels on the right side of mid-century design inspiration. These are Australian designed and made and translate in a room as low key but give high quality, functional design.
The AirTable by Jigsaw House
Designed in Melbourne by two brothers this portable table reminds me of the vinyl card tables of my childhood that surely broke every design rule seemed to be assembled with ease at any given moment for an impromptu picnic or, as it would turn out, card game. This modern day equivalent (albeit considerably more chic in Yves Klein blue) is made from Japanese engineered foam and aluminium and rubber. It’s the pack-down table you won’t want to pack down.
Benvenuti Plate by Alex and Trahanas
While this lifestyle project from Alexandra Heard and Heleena Trahanas has been founded on bringing to life their love of Mediterranean summer it could be said that their plates are nowhere better suited than on the family style tables of Sydney-siders where the brand is based. I love the casual understated tone of these ceramic plates in chocolate.
