In this edition, we chat with Artwork expert Sophie from Curatorial + Co, dynamic homewares creator Grace Garrett and the ever-passionate Monique from Malawi Cane. If you missed part 1 – be sure to check it out here.
Saturday sessions……we don’t like to break tradition, so this Saturday whilst we are chatting to these amazingly talented female superstars, Kerena and Kylie are sipping on a Grenadine Margarita, because – why not! And, they are super pretty! Thanks for the recipe The Margarita Mum!
Image Source: The Margarita Mum
Curatorial + Co
Sophie Vander is as passionate about art as they come. She started Curatorial + Co with the purpose to make art accessible to all Australians – a curated collection of exclusive one-of-a-kind and limited edition works by artists and designers from across the globe.
With art from both established and emerging artists, Curatorial + Co has created a necessary connection between artists , collectors, designers and their potential clients. Presenting painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, sculpture and ceramic works as well as multimedia and textile art pieces, the scope of the Curatorial+Co. collection is vast and inspiring, and all works are exclusive to Curatorial+Co.
What is your favourite room at home?
My entry.
What design style is this room/space?
It’s in the original half of our 1930’s art deco home. The beautiful curve of the banister is in its original condition, and we’ve added art and lighting elements to make it more contemporary.
What is it about this space that makes it special, memorable or unique?
It’s such a grand welcome into our home but its simplicity of form is what draws you in. Letting the architecture speak for itself is what gives it a quiet confidence. Sometimes all you need is the architecture, and art.
“Art can change a room completely. It can elevate it, it can change the mood, it can tell a story”
SOPHIE VANDER – FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR
If you could change one thing about this room what would it be and why?
Maybe the slight orange tone of the banister varnish! But I really don’t want to touch it as it’s important to the history of the home.
What do you think – in terms of design, style, decor – makes a room stand out?
Art, of course! Art can change a room completely. It can elevate it, it can change the mood, it can tell a story. I don’t understand rooms without art. For me there is something missing, a coldness. It’s not a home until that important personal element is there.
What is your one favourite item or element of this room that makes it so special to you?
The addition of our huge Isabelle de Kleine work on paper brings what could have been a stuffy 90-year-old space into the now. If we’d put a traditional art deco hall table there, or tried to match the era, it wouldn’t work. Isabelle’s painting has such incredible soul that it feels very much at home. I love walking in every day and seeing it.
From where did you source the pieces in this room/space?
Curatorial+Co. represents Isabelle de Kleine and you can find her work on our website. The art deco chair was sourced from a local auction house for $35! We stripped the orange varnish, stained it black and recovered in teal velvet. The chandelier is from Douglas and Bec.
Sophie’s Entry – It’s divine!
Malawi Cane + Coastal Drift
Born from a desire for authentic and classic furniture, Malawi Cane has been trading in South Africa since 2012, and in Australia since 2017.
The Australian operation is headed up by Monique, who was born in Malawi; and loves nothing more than seeing genuine Malawi product in homes around the world. Sharing the beautiful stories behind the craftspeople who skillfully weave each piece, preserving centuries-old traditional weaving methods, and ensuring the artisans and their communities are supported fairly through their trade of Malawi Cane furniture.
Image Source: Realestate.com
What is your favourite room at home?
It’s a tough contender….the laundry room (it’s frickin’ amazing), or this one….our in-built balcony off the master bedroom, over-looking the Tasman Sea…the latter wins due to the family time it brings us (the laundry room just remains a personal fave!)
What design style is this room/space?
Rustic-luxe beach house
What is it about this space that makes it special, memorable or unique?
Due to it’s location (only accessible from the master bedroom), it’s a space that’s only ever truly experienced by the family….generally between 5-7am….an east-facing house will do that for you! We spend our first hour of the day here….enjoying coffees, warm milks, cuddles, bird-watching, whale watching, and all things that happen around sunrise. It’s a moment in our days that non one else can interrupt.
If you could change one thing about this room what would it be and why?
Allow us to spend more time here! Or install a coffee machine!
What do you think – in terms of design, style, decor – makes a room stand out?
It’s about having one unique stand-out piece (of art or furniture…but don’t do both – they will fight) And then ensuring there are personal elements that tell a personal story to your life.
“When styling your home, be sure to think of a style that fits your personal life and history, you need to connect with the aesthetics in your home, as well as being able to add those personal touches that tell a story to your life. It will enable you to genuinely feel “at home” and to guests, your home will feel more relaxed. My husband and I have always inter-twinned our lifelong heritages of Africa, Europe and Australia in all of our homes, and our daughter understands her heritages. And don’t forget to have a few hints of fun spotted around your home…there should be a few locations where you walk around a corner and something winks at you“.
MONIQUE RYAN-MUSACCHIO – FOUNDER + DIRECTOR MALAWI CANE
What is your one favourite item or element of this room that makes it so special to you?
The Malawi Traditional Hanging Loveseat – it’s the prototype of my original design for my business, Malawi Cane….so much emotional connection with the artisans who hand-weave these pieces from my country of birth.
From where did you source the pieces in this room/space?
Malawi Cane!
Grace Garrett
Homewares Queen Grace Garrett has worked in the design industry over twenty years. Grace has a style that is dynamic, modern and bold. Her collections are inspired by her travels, and the journey of life experience. The first collection Beauty of Asia was created whilst living in Asia. Grace now has a number of collections under her belt.
Featured in Australian House & Garden magazine’s Top Women in Design, her textiles are regularly seen in a number of other major interior design publications. Grace’s collections include wallpaper, cushions, beach towels, beach bags, rugs, candles, dog beds….the list goes on, there is nothing this women can’t do!
What is your favourite room at home?
My bedroom
What design style is this room/space?
Mix of Modern / Tribal inspired design.
“Your decorating doesn’t need to be matchy-matchy but there needs to be an underlying theme/colour scheme to tie each space together”
GRACE GARRETT – FOUNDER
What is it about this space that makes it special, memorable or unique?
It’s MY space to relax and unwind. I love the cocooning vibe, the mix of textures, Metal, Timber, Linen, fur – the cultivar linen sheets, the beaded chandelier over the black 4 poster bed and the dark moody artwork. Its the one room in the house that I don’t have to share.
If you could change one thing about this room what would it be and why?
Have it on the other side of the hallway. It’s currently on the street side – which can get noisy – and maybe double it in size 🙂
What do you think – in terms of design, style, decor – makes a room stand out?
Your decorating doesn’t need to be matchy-matchy but there needs to be an underlying theme/colour scheme to tie each space together. Mixing textures is also key to creating an interesting space so it doesn’t feel cold or sterile.
What is your one favourite item or element of this room that makes it so special to you?
My Bed – We all spend a lot of time in bed – so beautiful linen and comfort are key – I also love the grand statement the 4 Poster bed makes. It adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the room along with creating a focal point.
Are you looking to Refresh or Transform your space at home and not sure where to start? Designbx offers a FREE no-obligation 15 minute phone consultation and a convenient online booking system – link below. We hope you enjoyed part one of our “behind the scenes” tour – keep an eye out for part two coming soon!
