Introducing Fox & Ramona...

I’m Kristy Tull, the designer and maker behind Fox & Ramona. It all began in 2011 inspired by a love of interior design, homewares and art. After working with different mediums over the years and experimenting with concrete, it quickly became my main love. I love unexpected colour combinations, raw textures and unpredictable finishes.
 
TDC - Tell us about your brand. What do you do? 
Fox & Ramona is a Melbourne based homewares brand offering a unique range of hand crafted concrete products and hand painted concrete planters.
Raw textures with freestyle designs allow for complimentary pieces to mix and match while simple, functional forms make for versatile use.
The organic nature of concrete and the unpredictable making process means no two pieces are ever the same, so you’ll always own an original, unique piece.
All homewares are designed and handmade by me, in my home studio. I work with small suppliers overseas to design planters which I hand paint.
 
TDC - What sets your brand apart? 
I set out to enhance the aesthetic of my products by highlighting the aspects of their creation – I don’t mask imperfections, I revel in them. I aim to combine functionality and art to create products that are unique and contemporary and that blend effortlessly into their environment.
 
TDC - What design ethos do you live by? 
The primary purpose is to create original pieces that draw attention to the simplicity of concrete in its non-traditional form.

TDC - What's your favourite product in your range and why? 
My favourite product is the oval concrete tray in pinks and rust. I love a beautiful handwash so I use the trays in my bathrooms and kitchen to sit them on – they’re the perfect size.
 
TDC - What plans do you have for the future?  
I’ve just released a new range which has been a labour of love and a long time coming so as much as I’m just trying to enjoy the moment, I’m currently designing a new range to release later in the year. I’m also really looking forward to some more exciting collaborations coming up this year, so watch this space!

​A little insight into who's behind Figgoscope Curates... 
Olá, I’m Marta Figueiredo, I am a Portuguese architect and I am the curator, designer and owner of Figgoscope Curates.
Figgoscope Curates is a Melbourne-based curatorial practice consisting of a carefully selected collection of Portuguese design objects, each one having evolved out of exciting collaborations with emerging designers and Portuguese artisans.
Our collections ranging from home textiles, furniture, artwork, to lighting design are a perfect balance of innovative design, high-quality materials and timeless craft, making them a unique addition to both residential and commercial interiors.
 
TDC - Tell us about your brand. What do you do? 
Figgoscope Curates was founded 3 years ago, when I was introduced to a new wave of Portuguese designers and artisans, who have a new spin on the traditional Portuguese craft. Portugal is renowned for their incredible quality of materials and manufacturing but these industries were in decline and lacked new creative blood to make it extraordinary!
I started by contacting designers and artisans in Portugal and spent time in their workshops to learn in detail about the making of their pieces. The concept of setting up Figgoscope Curates evolved naturally from the wish of sharing these amazing product designs to the Australian market.

Figgoscope Curates not only selects and coordinates the range with the artisans & manufacturers in Portugal, but some of the pieces are collaborations and designed by us, here in Australia. 

TDC -  What sets your brand apart? 
We focus on sustainable product design that carries a traditional mastering of craft - where heritage meets design.

In an era of globalisation, mass consumerism and social media, we're witnessing a tendency for uniformity and instant plastic fantastic buying culture.
In contrast, we were seduced by the originality of the techniques and material characteristics that are unique to various regions of Portugal. We were inspired by the younger generation of designers and craft makers that are so proudly revitalising the designs while keeping the originality of the ancient craft alive.
Also, we make sure that the story of the product and maker can be shared and heard by giving a new meaning to the object.

Our collections consist of inventive design, exceptional quality materials and timeless craft, making them an original addition to the Australian interior design scene. That and Portuguese tarts - the original Pastel Natas!

TDC - What design ethos do you live by?
At Figgoscope Curates we live, breath and eat sophisticated craft and slow design principles. In other words, each object from our range carries a designer's sophisticated rendition of ancient, sustainable and refined craft.
Our products are a labour of love, only small quantities are produced at a time, perfecting their quality. As a result these products will last for a lifetime.
By doing so, we cater for the design conscious community and their savvy palette.

TDC - What's your favourite product in your range and why? 
That's a really hard question...as we're in love with all of our products... But Ok... this time I will pick the new range of fabrics of Burel colours and stitches - freshly arrived!  For 2018 Burel 100% felted woven wool came up with some deep, rich and moody shades. They're a blend of colours, they're flexible, they have a great variety of vibrant undertones and they just get my design-head working.  Since I received this new range I haven't stopped dreaming of combinations for cushions, upholstered furniture...etc. 
 
TDC - What plans do you have for the future? 
These are exciting times for the Portuguese design world! We're keeping our eyes open to discover new collaborations and brands - specifically the ones with innovative ideas. For instance, just recently we came across a start up design studio, supported by a major cork company, who has developed a new cork fibre for rugs.

So we plan to expand our range with new brands but also continue the collaborations with our existing suppliers with new additions to our collection - for example, we're working on new upholstered furniture pieces with Burel. The new fabrics are a source inspiration!
With our fast expanding range, we are planning to open a new showroom!

Cakebread is a Melbourne based textile design studio founded by Elise Cakebread in 2013.

A little introduction to Elise... 
I am a textile-based artist and designer.
I founded the textile design studio Cakebread in 2013.
 
TDC - Tell us about your brand. What do you do? 
I am driven by experimentation within traditional textile processes and techniques, my work focuses on the tensions created by the unusual or unexpected contrasts that emerge between materials, forms, colours, textures and scale. Through these methods I explore ideas of materiality, tactility, craft, disposability and the ornamental.
My cross-disciplinary approach gives life to sculptural work, installations, decorative objects, accessories and soft furnishings.
The main line of products are soft-furnishings; quilts, cushions and throw rugs.  They are all made locally and hand-finished in the Studio.  
​
TDC -  What sets your brand apart? 
My approach is one that favours artistry over trends. My focus is on the tactility of the materials I use, balance of colour and the application of techniques. I am always striving to unearth new methods, or interpretations of techniques. I want to make pieces that are more than just a throw rug or cushion but are unique and engaging pieces of artistry in their own right. This is what drives what I do and hopefully also what sets Cakebread apart.
 
TDC - What design ethos do you live by? 
My approach to design is that through experimentation and play the most interesting and engaging results are revealed. With each piece I aim to make something that will really connect, pieces that have personality, that invite you to touch and experience them.   
 
TDC - What's your favourite product in your range and why? 
My favorite and most popular pieces by far are the Soft Hemispheres - in all their various incarnations. The Soft Hemispheres are characterful pieces that have a highly tactile quality that really resonate with people. They are made using what has become a signature Cakebread tufted yarn technique. I’m always excited to make new versions of these, whether they be tiny almost pom-pom like spheres or huge one meter wide orbs with extra long strands - like the Leviathan piece I made for Space furniture back in 2014.  
I’ve also been spending the last few months developing new versions of this technique and I think this is quickly becoming my new favourite.

TDC - What plans do you have for the future?  
I’m currently working on a new collection of soft furnishings as well as some sculptural pieces for a public art installation that - fingers crossed - will happen sometime this year.
So I’ve been developing and teaching myself lots of new techniques – very much looking forward to seeing these projects evolve and resolve!

TDC - Tell us about your brand. What do you do? 
Established in 1952, Cadrys are Australia’s leading handwoven rug specialist.
Expert knowledge combined with an unparalleled level of customer service are the hallmarks of our tradition.
Cadrys is led by Robert Cadry (Bob) along with his sons, Ari and Jared.
From humble beginnings the business has grown and evolved into the contemporary and custom market with showrooms in both Sydney and Melbourne. These showrooms serve discerning clients, leading designers and architects across both residential and commercial projects.
Cadrys Classic offers one of the world’s most discerning collections of decorative classic, vintage, antique tribal rugs and kilims in Australia.
Cadrys Contemporary offers an internationally acclaimed collection of quality pieces that is authentic design and custom focused. Cadrys have the Australian exclusivity for leading international design brand Jan Kath as well as beautiful ranges in collaboration with inspiring Melbourne artist weaver Tammy Kanat and a soon to be released collection with Walter G textiles.
All rugs are traditionally handwoven with the highest quality materials and are all certified by GoodWeave® which ensures no child labour is used in our production and that fair and ethical working conditions are maintained.
Cadrys Wholesale division known as Colorscope is fast becoming one of Australia’s leading rug suppliers to major furniture and homeware retailers and focus on creating exclusive lines for key partners to suit their individual market, style and demographic.
Colorscope also offers a great selection of affordable open in stock ranges that suit a wide variety of applications. A warehouse and showroom is located in Noble Park Melbourne and available by appointment.
Cadrys Contract the newest division will be focused on providing original designs and textures for the hotel, hospitality and commercial market providing innovative solutions, qualities and materials fit for purpose. Bespoke hand tufted, Axminster and broadloom qualities unlike anything seen before are available.

TDC - What sets your brand apart? 
The Cadrys are multi-generational rug aficionados whose expertise, knowledge and integrity drive their passion to make the process of acquiring a beautiful handwoven rug a rewarding and enjoyable experience. They and their friendly staff have a genuine desire to understand the various requirements of a client’s needs and will do everything to find the right piece to enhance their homes.
A home should reflect the personality of its owners and be decorated with pieces that they love.
 
TDC - What design ethos do you live by? 
I am drawn to originality and authenticity whether it displays abstract contemporary concepts or classical themes.
Importantly the intrinsic quality of materials are of the upmost importance as taste is subjective, but quality is not.

TDC - What's your favourite product in your range and why? 
My favourite collection would have to be our collaborative collection developed with Melbourne’s very own weaver, Tammy Kanat.  Innovation is at the heart of all Tammy’s creations and as a highly skilled weaver she understands the complexities involved in this time honoured craft.
The collection is a reflection of free flowing designs and toning’s that are brought to life with wonderful fibres that include Tibetan wool, silk and nettle. Tammy’s fabulous sense of artistry through her combining both colour and texture in an original manner makes her rugs so versatile and suitable for a variety of applications from casual to formal settings.
 
TDC - What plans do you have for the future?  
There are a number of new collections currently in development and new collaborations.
Our newly launched Contract Division is gaining a lot of attention with leading architects in the commercial market.

TDC - Tell us about your brand. What do you do? 
Apparentt® is a Melbourne based design studio developing attractive, innovative furniture and lighting solutions for both residential and commercial interiors. Each Apparentt® product is carefully considered, designed with restraint and produced locally using only the highest quality materials, coupled with credible methods of construction.
 
American Oak timber is a strong part of our identity and we also like to play with detail; exposed joinery, small accents of metals, colour and upholstery to contrast, diversify and soften where necessary.
 
TDC -  What sets your brand apart? 
We are influenced by Japanese woodworking, highly regarded for its ingenuity and boasts some of the most incredibly complex and attractive woodworking joints. Traditional Japanese joinery clearly demonstrates a ‘makers hand’ and consequently, uncompromising quality. We work to instill these qualities in our own designs.
Despite this lean towards traditional methods, we are deeply in love with modern design, clever aesthetics and engaging newness. We are continually experimenting and trying to push boundaries, in order to reinterpret and create new aesthetics without compromising the integrity of old.

TDC - What design ethos do you live by? 
Our driving philosophy is to create exclusive products that are beautiful, simple and durable.
 
TDC - What's your favourite product in your range and why? 
The Idle bench seat for its simple aesthetic and the very uniquely designed exposed joinery, where the legs meet the top called a ‘spindle through dowel’ join. Seemingly difficult but beautifully simple in the way it’s assembled.
Our incredibly versatile Morse Pendants. We’ve recently added luxurious brass and copper versions to this range, but our favourite will always be the black steel version due to its black patina and soft industrial appeal.

TDC - What plans do you have for the future?  
We are gearing up for a busy Denfair in June 2018. This will mark 2 years since the launch of Apparentt and our range. We have some exciting opportunities coming up with various projects, residential and commercial, plus some brand new products to be launched this year. 

Led by owner and designer, Anne-Claire Petre, anaca studio is a Melbourne-based furniture design practice that works closely with its local manufacturers to create a range of contemporary products echoing its commitment to good design practices.
Upholding the studio’s principles of practicality, integrity, clean aesthetics and simplicity, all furniture and accessories are made in Australia using sustainable timbers, materials and finishes, and each unique piece is made to order.
 
TDC - Tell us about anaca studio. What do you do? 
What lies behind the brand is a passion for design principles, a belief that simplicity of forms and thoughtful details are essential to creating beautiful and lasting product.
So we design each piece carefully and in collaboration with our makers and manufacturers to achieve not just a look but also a product that will stand the test of time. We also work with our clients on custom finishes and fabrics as no home or space is ever the same and we want people to feel special about the products they’re introducing in their everyday lives.
​
TDC -  What sets your brand apart? 
Strong ethics and a desire a work collaboratively with our manufacturers and clients to achieve not just great designs but to create great relationships. We love designing of course but anaca studio is not just about the products, it’s about what we can do for our clients and how we can improve the quality of life by introducing beautiful designs into Australian homes.

TDC - What design ethos do you live by? 
Timelessness and durability. Basically buy well, buy once. It is about learning to be patient and save to get quality products rather than having to replace a poorly made item. Pre-loved pieces of furniture can be real winners too, they’re kind on the credit card and it makes sense environmentally. Buy what you really love and need instead of giving into instant gratification.

TDC - What's your favourite product in your range and why? 
So hard to pick but I’ll have to say the Camille sofa. When I started the anaca studio, upholstery was always on the cards. It took a few years to get there but I’ve enjoyed the design journey and the research to make sure it was a unique look and the comfort was spot on. The curve of the arm, the height of the back, depth etc. all was considered. I also love how different fabrics can transform the look, from something sophisticated and luxurious with velvet to a more modernist and casual look with wool.

TDC - What plans do you have for the future?  
Outside working on collaborations? I plan to work on new designs and expand the range to offer a more complete look, not just furniture but also products and accessories.   

Elizabeth Bull is a photographer and founder of One Fine Print. Elizabeth fell in love with photography while still in high school, when she built a darkroom in her parents’ Melbourne home. She went on to study photography at RMIT and has been a working photographer for the last 15 years. She now runs One Fine Print http://www.onefineprint.com.au/, which offers customers an online curated collection of photographic art prints. One Fine Print was born when she recognising that many talented photographers lacked a means to share their distinctive imagery with the public. It frustrated her that the beautiful images her colleagues were creating just weren't getting out there. One Fine Print has expanded from thereto represent a stable of nine experienced Australian photographers. One Fine Print images are characterised by their technical brilliance and intriguing nature.
 
TDC - Tell us about One Fine Print. What do you do?
 One Fine Print is a curated collection of photographic art prints. We're about promoting photography as art, to push the boundaries and steer buyers away from generic prints, instead introducing them to the original, dynamic work being produced by photographers. We hand-pick beautiful images that take our clients on a journey, makes them feel, helps them explore. This helps creates a home they can enjoy, share and entertain in. A place that inspires.

TDC - What sets One Fine Print apart?
 One Fine Print is unique because, being photographers ourselves, we're immersed in the industry and are constantly scouring the creative community to find award-winning photographers who are recognised among the best around. Our photographers push boundaries and produce distinctive imagery, which fits seamlessly into homes.

TDC - What design ethos do you live by?
Like what you like.
I've always felt that I didn't fit in because I don't necessary love mainstream design. But I've finally come to terms with the fact that just because something is on trend doesn't mean it's the right fit for your home and your lifestyle. I've learnt to trust myinstincts and go with the pieces that I am drawn to. Trends come and go but what you love rarely changes.

TDC - What's your favourite print in your range and why?
It's really hard to pick a favourite, as I love them all. At the moment I am really loving Chris Tung's Moss print, as it was taken in Iceland, a place which has been on my bucket list for a long time. I love to travel, so any image that has me dreaming of faraway places is a favourite of mine.
 
TDC - What plans do you have for the future?
Keep creating imagery and discovering more talented Australian photographers. I'd love One Fine Print to expand even further to give more photographers a platform to share their work.