I S S U E 1 9 / / F O R P E O P L E PA S S I O N AT E A B O U T N AT U R A L LY B E A U T I F U L S PA C E S , P L A C E S A N D O B J E C T S
FEEL GOOD
S PA C E S
D E S I G N E R S // I N F L U E N C E R S // A R T I S A N S // R E N O VAT O R S
✖
LOVE THIS
A minimalist but tactile approach saw ROCKCOTE Clay Plaster Decor in Natural White used throughout, see p.22
W E LC O M E ISSUE NO.19 / CONTENTS 03 04 16 22 30
WELCOME THE PROJECT // 123 PITT STREET BY HASSELL THE INFLUENCER // JASON GRANT THE HOME // FRESHWATER APARTMENT BY OLIVIA BOSSY THE ARTISAN // CROSSING THREADS // TEXTILE ARTISTS
COVER PHOTOGRAPH MAREE HOMER CREATIVE + EDITORIAL DIRECTOR NINA DORN CREATIVEDIRECTOR@ROCKCOTE.COM.AU THE NATURAL ARTISAN MAGAZINE 18 MACHINERY ROAD, PO BOX 230, YANDINA, QLD 4561 PHONE: 1300 736 668 THENATURALARTISAN.COM INSTAGRAM @THENATURALARTISAN VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF ROCKCOTE WHILST ALL CARE IS TAKEN IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS PUBLICATION, THE PUBLISHER ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ERRORS AND/ OR OMISSIONS @COPYRIGHT THE NATURAL ARTISAN / ROCKCOTE. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF ROCKCOTE. THE NATURAL ARTISAN IS PRINTED ON ECOSTAR WHICH IS 100% RECYCLED UNCOATED PAPER. BY USING ECOSTAR OFFSET RATHER THAN A NON RECYCLED PAPER THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT WAS REDUCED BY: // 164KG OF LANDFILL // 24KG CO 2 AND GREENHOUSE GASES // 4,800 LITRES OF WATER // 243KM TRAVEL IN THE AVERAGE EUROPEAN CAR
NOTE
N I N A D O R N A N D T H E R O C KC O T E T E A M
Simple is beautiful and natural is the way forward. This was our philosophy when compiling Issue 19 of The Natural Artisan Magazine. As a result we give you an uncomplicated edit of two beautiful spaces, both of which utilise ROCKCOTE's Natural Materials range but where the end results couldn't be more different. From the corporate confines of 123 Pitt Street to the relaxed vibe of The Freshwater Apartment both spaces benefitted from the application of ROCKCOTE Natural Materials by a skilled Artisan to provide calming, natural interiors with no compromise to health or the environment. The team have also curated some of the most covetable products on our Get The Look pages - each chosen to help you achieve an effortless natural style in your own home. We also have an uplifting interview with interior designer Jason Grant about the inspiration he derives from his surroundings in beautiful Byron Bay. So dive into these pages and enjoy the uncluttered spaces, clear horizons and effortless interiors. N I N A D O R N A N D T H E R O C KC O T E T E A M
Follow us on Instagram @thenaturalartisan Subscribe at thenaturalartisan.com
issue no 19
/ The Natural Artisan
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04 The Natural Artisan
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issue no 19
A QUIET
S PA C E 12 3 P I T T S T R E E T, S Y D N E Y, N S W
The brief was to create a quiet, contemplative space within a bustling corporate lobby. We chat to Interior Designer Angela O'Connor from Hassell about creating an engaging space and the natural materials that proved the hero of this project. W O R D S : N I N A D O R N // P H OTO G R A P H Y: A L I C I A TAY LO R
The Project / The Natural Artisan
" N AT U R A L F I N I S H E S I N H E R E N T LY H O L D A W A R M T H A N D B E A U T Y T H AT I S T I M E L E S S A N D LO N G L A ST I N G . " W H AT WA S T H E D E S I G N B R I E F
in drawing people in, and the various
T H AT I N I T I AT E D T H E P R OJ EC T ?
lounge settings, booths and dining areas
AMP Capital, as manager of 123 Pitt Street
encourage visitors to make themselves
on behalf of the AWOF, appointed Hassell
comfortable. We intentionally made the
to undertake the interior design for the
interior inviting so people would linger,
lobby refurbishment. The initial brief was
explore and feel inspired rather than
to improve accessibility to the building
designing a transient lobby, which aims to
from its various entry points, improve
move people through quickly.
connections through the building to the surrounding precinct and to activate the lobby spaces by creating unique areas for
DOMESTIC-LIKE FURNISHINGS
INCLUDING SOFT CURVES AND T I M B E R D E TA I L I N G P R E VA I L . WAS THIS AN INTENTIONAL
OUTCOME FOR THE INTERIOR? We wanted the space to feel homely and inviting which led to the use of natural materials, warm finishes and soft furnishings. While the furniture may
ROCKCOTE OTSUMIGAKI WAS U S E D T H R O U G H O U T. W H AT
have a homely appearance, it’s important to note that it also satisfies commercial
B E N E F I T S D O T H E S E N AT U R A L
requirements.
AN INTRIGUING PART OF TH E
Natural finishes inherently hold a warmth
D I D YO U F I N D T H E N AT U R A L
TIMBER CEILING. CAN YOU
tenants and visitors to meet.
FINISHES OFFER?
M AT E R I A L S H E L P E D TO C R E AT E
SC H E M E I S T H E O R N AT E
and beauty that is timeless and long lasting. These finishes also tend to be
A PA R T I C U L A R AT M O S P H E R E ?
T E L L U S A B O U T W H AT D R OV E
more durable. Personally, I love the
Yes, the existing Rosso marble was the
authenticity of natural finishes and find
hero of the space – dramatic, interesting,
designing with them to be a pleasure.
and with its own personality. We leveraged
THE CONCEPT AND HOW IT WAS PROCURED ON SITE?
We wanted to mitigate the vastness of the void and bring it down to a more human scale, creating an element of interest that would inspire awe. The cleverness of the design is that, while the feature looks complex, it is actually a kit of parts that
off its presence in creating the warm T H E R E I S A M OV E AWAY FRO M STERILE, INACTIVE
COMMERCIAL LOBBY SPACES, AND A MOVE TOWARDS MORE
C O M FO R TA B L E , H O N E S T A N D
interior. We continued to use natural materials such as the ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki throughout to maintain a sense of connection and consistency.
ENGAGI NG SPACES. HOW DI D
WHICH ASPECTS OF THE
YO U WA N T E D TO AC T I VAT E T H E
Everyone involved on this project, from the
PLEASED WITH?
COMMUNITY AND BUILDING
client to the building team (FDC Construc-
We’re very happy with the entire outcome.
OCCU PANTS USI NG TH E SPACE ,
tion & Fitout), was aligned in the vision for
The whole process has been satisfying
HOW HAVE YOU ACHIEVED THIS
the overall outcome. The goal was to create
with the client and the design and build
THROUGH THE DESIGN?
an engaging environment and I believe that
team working harmoniously throughout.
Our design created a range of opportunities
the results speak for themselves.
However, the ceiling detail is particularly
was assembled on site.
YOUR CLIENT RE AC T TO THIS?
PROJEC T ARE YOU MOST
for people to meet and engage with each
successful. We’re looking forward to
other. The café is an important element
releasing stage two.
06 The Natural Artisan
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issue no 19
✖
LOVE THIS
The dramatic lobby space with ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki in Natural White used throughout
✖
LOVE THIS
ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki in Natural White helps create a relaxing space
You used ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki on this project, what are the benefits? ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki is by far my
favourite product to apply. Not only is it aesthetically beautiful, it’s a clay based
natural material. What many clients don’t MEET THE ARTISAN A N T H O N Y WA K E F I E L D // TRIPLE A RENDERING
realise when using clay based natural materials, is that it actually allows its
surface to breathe. In turn it helps to control humidity.
Tell me about your business?
What was involved in the training to
London. After a huge decision to pack up
They offer all kinds of training and
My business was formed 15 years ago in
and move to Australia 6 years ago, I then had to restart the business. Once
established, I decided to rename the
company Triple A Rendering. This reflects my wife’s name, Amber, my daughter's name, Ava and of course my name,
Anthony. Although we now have a son
called Oliver, so he may be asking some questions when he’s older!
Fast forward 6 years and I now have a
superb team who work for me and we specialise in high end natural material
finishes. You’re only as good as the team
you have around you and I’m very grateful to the guys that help me bring my clients
become a ROCKCOTE Artisan?
development courses for industry
professionals, however, becoming a
Master Artisan requires more experience out in the field that helps you appreciate and fully understand natural materials.
This experience is essential and can only be gained over time. With time, patience and a great imagination you can really
create amazing finishes, but of course time can not be rushed.
I’m extremely lucky to have been brought into the ROCKCOTE family and this is
why Triple A Rendering exclusively uses their products.
and my visions together.
issue no 19
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09
✖
LOVE THIS
Using ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki in Natural White created a calm, welcoming interior
✖
LOVE THIS
Walls were skillfully rendered with ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki in Natural White
The Project / The Natural Artisan
" W E U S E D N AT U R A L M AT E R I A L S T H R O U G H O U T T O M A I N TA I N A S E N S E OF CONNECTION AND CONSISTENCY" of a space, whether that be social, cultural, or economical.
How is your studio structured?
HASSELL is an international design
practice with 10 studios around the
world. We don’t operate each studio MEET THE DESIGNER A N G E L A O ’ CO N N O R // HASSELL
What is the ethos of HASSELL? Collaboration is what we pride
ourselves on at HASSELL. We are all about designing places people love
and ultimately judge our success by the way people use these spaces.
For us, it’s about unlocking the value
in isolation, but more as a global
network. In the Sydney studio I’m
Do you have a signature style?
What role do you think social
outcomes for our clients and each
Social media is an important tool for
Our goal is to produce the best client has different aspirations
and operational needs. We believe
good design is about helping clients
meet these needs and achieve their own goals.
surrounded by interior designers,
How important is sustainability in
designers. Each discipline has a
There is no one-size-fits-all approach
architects, and urban/landscape
Practice Leader and Principals who lead the teams in an open and
collaborative environment, often working on cross-disciplinary
projects to deliver a truly holistic design outcome.
media is playing in architecture?
communicating and connecting with a wider audience. Platforms such as Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn are ideal for celebrating great design
outcomes and sharing thoughtful insights on design.
the materials specified?
What are you working on now?
to sustainability. We are continually
wide range of projects across
improving our collective skills and
knowledge in sustainable design and innovation, applying this knowledge in a way that benefits our clients
through better performing buildings, and spaces that have lasting value.
issue no 19
HASSELL Sydney is engaged in a disciplines. Personally, I am focused on completing Stage 2 of Angel
Place, which will see the entry lobby and the façade refresh revealed to the public.
/ The Natural Artisan
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The Project / The Natural Artisan
1.
Otsumigaki in Natural White. ✖ ROCKCOTE Drawing on the ancient traditions of lime and clay Japanese plaster, Otsumigaki provides a subtle elegance through its soft, smooth feel. Its presence in a room enlivens the senses and brings us back in touch with the natural world. 2.
8.
3.
6.
4.
5.
5.
7.
TH IS PAGE 1.
marimekko.com.au 2.
$34.99, thedesignedit.com.au
Marimekko Unikko Bowl, $39, 5.
Oak and Cognac Leather, $4899,
6.
4.
Mark Tuckey Egg Cup Stool in Pine, $650, marktuckey.com.au
finnishdesignshop.com 3.
Dropit Hooks Large Black 2pcs, $65, nordicfusion.com.au
Woud Level Day Bed with White Pigmented
Midnight Falken Watch in Black, $350,
7.
MENU Peek Floor Lamp, $750, menu.as
theiconic.com.au
8.
ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki in Natural White,
Plant Style: How to Greenify Your Space,
rockcote.com.au
issue no 19
/ The Natural Artisan
15
The Influencer / The Natural Artisan
N AT U R A L
CHARM
J A S O N G R A N T, I N T E R I O R S T Y L I S T + AU T H O R His interior style is relaxed, casual and quintessentially Australian. Here Jason Grant chats to us about his career, social media, a sea change move to beautiful Byron and how to nail a totally achievable style in your own home. WORDS: NINA DORN
// P H OTO G R A P H Y: M A R E E H O M E R
HOW DID YOUR CAREER BEGIN? Before becoming a stylist I handled the media loans for a home-wares company. I organised products to be sent for shoots to the stylists at magazines. I made a lot of friends in the industry, but one in particular, Glen Proebstel then style editor for Inside Out magazine, really helped kick me off. On one of his visits to Melbourne (where I grew up and started my career) I asked if I could assist on a shoot and that was the beginning of everything. Back then before Instagram things were a little more magical. I leapt in feet first thanks to Karen McCartney taking a chance on me and ended up being the Melbourne contributing editor - styling and producing the Melbourne content for the magazine. Eventually I moved to Sydney to be the Style Director of Real Living magazine under Deb Bibby. After some time I
returned to freelancing and with the launch of my first book, things began to step up. I always feel that I have been great at evolving, adapting and taking a chance. I lived in Sydney for almost ten years, before moving to Byron, where I now live, to escape the city and extend on my creativity. HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO C O L L A B O R AT E W I T H ?
I always like working with like minded people that I gel with. Life is too short! AS AN “INFLUENCER� HOW DO YOU FEEL SOCIAL MEDIA HAS BENEFITTED THE DESIGN PROFESSION?
I think social media is great and terrible at the same time and prefer to not think of myself as an influencer but as a stylist, author and designer who sometimes
issue no 19
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The Influencer / The Natural Artisan
" I ’ M N E V E R FA R F R O M T H E O C E A N . I A M C O N S TA N T LY I N S P I R E D B Y N AT U R E " dabbles in photography.
exclusive interview with Sibella Court)
IN HIS SHOES
WH I CH ARE YOU R FAVOU RITE
HOW DO YOU MANAGE TO
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF JASON GRANT
@the_shopkeepers
WORK LIFE? (IF YOU DO!)
6.00am: There is really no typical day (and I
@kellywearstler
I’m all about balance and creativity but I
@crimebydesign
see it more as a way of living than setting
I N S TAG R A M AC C O U N T S?
SPILL THE BEANS - SYDNEY OR BYRON?
M A I N TA I N B A L A N C E I N YO U R
restrictions. I’m all about living a life that I love, but to be honest, I’m either off or on. I live a creative life and don’t set restrictions.
To be honest both! I’m never far from the
It’s fine to have a swim during the day and
ocean. I’m always inspired by nature in
work later into the night, or work on the
fact, wherever I am.
weekend and take a day off during the
FAVO U R I T E A RT I SA N PRO D U C T S
T H AT YO U L OV E T O S T Y L E W I T H ? I love unique, bespoke and handmade
week. I allow creativity to be a constant. It’s
danielboddam.com
dilorenzo.com.au. I’m finding that I’m doing
Rugs by Pampa
more and more work with residential and
pampa.com.au
commercial spaces at the moment and
Plants and hand ceramics from
I’m also working on a few signature JG
Nikau Store
products and a collection of curated
nikaustore.com
pieces. I’m always loving vintage and
Art by George Byrne
nature finds. FAVOU RITE PL ACE TO CH I LL
and Heaths Old Wares
RIGHT NOW?
Furniture from JD Lee Furniture
Light Years Restaurant, Byron Bay-
jdleefurniture.com
awesome food and awesome cocktails.
Cool stuff from my friend Sibella Court
lightyearsasiandiner.com.au
should look - magical! (See issue 18 for our
18 The Natural Artisan
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issue no 19
via my friends at thebroadplace.com.au)
8:00am: Grab a coffee at McTavish (great coffee and surfboards) and there’s always plenty of local friends there to chat to.
9.00am onwards: Depending on my day,
I’ll either be working from the studio, on a
Sometimes all of the above! Generally, I’m
A new tile collection (my second) with
When a stylist opens a shop this is how it
7:00am: Morning meditation (I learnt this
W H AT P R OJ EC T S A R E YO U
Furniture by Daniel Boddam
thesocietyinc.com.au
Boston Terrier
photo shoot, sourcing for clients and
WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
Vintage from Clems in Brunswick Heads
start the day by walking my dog Sophia the
equal parts work, relax and play.
items. Here are a few of my favourites:
georgebyrne.com
love this), but a few constants are that I
projects, attending meetings or travelling. very organised with deadlines and my
schedule. I know what needs to be done – I’m a big list maker!
4.00pm: When possible there will always be a swim at some point in the day.
✖
LOVE THIS Achieve a similar
finish with ROCKCOTE Ecostyle Low Sheen Paint
Above: A practical storage space in the bedroom with rug from Pampa and hanging storage from Floc Studio. Opposite: Sophia the Boston Terrier sitting pretty under desk from Koskela. Styled with Thonet chair and vintage boating oars. Left: The studio entrance
issue no 19
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The Home / The Natural Artisan
SMALL
WON D E R F R E S H WAT E R A PA R T M E N T, S Y D N E Y, N S W
A holistic approach, the use of natural materials and a talented team helped transform this tiny beach-side apartment into a functional space perfectly in sync with its surroundings. Owner and interior designer Olivia Bossy tells us more about this unique project. WORDS: NINA DORN
// P H OTO G R A P H Y: TO M R OS S
RECONFIGU RI NG A 51M2 SPACE
W E LOV E T H E N AT U R A L
E S P E C I A L LY T O K E E P A R E L A X E D
YOUR HOME , CAN YOU TELL US
MUST BE A CHALLENGE –
FEEL AND NOT BE PARED BACK T O U LT R A - M I N I M A L I S M . H O W DID YOU ACHIEVE THIS?
M AT E R I A L S U S E D T H R O U G H O U T MORE ABOUT THEM?
It’s all wood, plasters and reeded glass! The oak brings a warmth and lightness
The main living area was completely
and works beautifully with the rattan. The
opened up and allowed to breath as one
ROCKCOTE Marrakesh is a feature in its
functional space. Most surfaces have a
own right and creates subtle dimensions
handmade, uneven finish which softens
and the incredible curved glass above the
and relaxes the room – the repetition
shower was a logistical nightmare but
of these textures, materials and shapes
ultimately essential to the impact in such
creates a rhythm, in turn forming interest
a tiny space.
without clutter. TH E COLOU R PALET TE IS
MUTED AND PARED BACK I N
THIS HOME – WHERE DID YOU D E R I V E I N S P I R AT I O N ?
The environment around the project is extraordinary and was the obvious source to reference. The sand and white-water now happily exists indoors.
22 The Natural Artisan
LOTS OF THE FURNITURE WAS DESIGNED BY YOU. CAN YOU TELL US MORE?
This is my great passion. To be able to take a holistic approach to any project is a dream and in such a small space each piece can become a feature in its own right beyond the function it serves. If I’m going to add more objects to this
/
issue no 19
The Home / The Natural Artisan
✖
24 The Natural Artisan
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issue no 19
LOVE THIS
A minimalist but tactile approach saw ROCKCOTE Clay Plaster Decor in Natural White used on the walls.
issue no 19
/ The Natural Artisan
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The Home / The Natural Artisan
"IT'S ABOUT STREAMLINING EXISTENCE, L I V I N G S M A L L B U T N O T AT T H E C O S T O F A B E A U T I F U L A N D F U N C T I O N A L S PA C E . " world, which seems an absurd thing to do, I want them to be handmade locally to order by artisans who are passionate about their craft and maybe create some kind of emotional reaction, although I understand that not everyone gets that from a chair.. ROCKCOTE PRODUCTS WERE U S E D T H R O U G H O U T. W H Y
DID YOU DECIDE TO USE THIS P R O D U C T A N D W H AT I S T H E
OVERALL EFFECT IT ACHIEVED? I had my eye on Tadelakt but ROCKCOTE Artisan Peter Holmes then suggested ROCKCOTE Marrakesh as a more affordable solution. It is such a beautiful, tactile product and brings such a softness to the seating area. The subtle texture of the plaster walls seems to glow in the morning sun and it has proven to be very durable even with two small children living here. And then there’s also the environmental advantages when using natural products throughout a home. W H AT A R E T H E A DVA N TAG E S O F USING A ROCKCOTE ARTISAN
LIKE PETER HOLMES TO ACHIEVE THE FINISHES?
The obvious knowledge and passion. He had an answer for every scenario and dedicated endless hours to getting the perfect finish. He is incredibly proud of the work he does and it shows. WHICH ASPECT OF THE PROPERTY A R E YO U MOST PLE A SE D W ITH?
I seem to say this endlessly, but that it is possible to live small and not at the cost of a beautiful and functional space.
26 The Natural Artisan
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issue no 19
✖
LOVE THIS
The Artisan used ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White to create clever in-built seating with planter
Sydney hotels, restaurants and private
also on some of the powder room
and towards them becoming
I have been training and collaborating
Rendering and Plastering had joined
the network. This allows you access
residences. For the past seven years
with other ROCKCOTE Artisans to add traditional artisan plaster finishes to my services. MEET THE ARTISAN: P E T E R H O L M E S // TA D E L A K T S Y D N E Y
You use ROCKCOTE Natural
Tell us a little about your business?
clients instead of synthetic materials
a ROCKCOTE Artisan. I’ve been in the
allows. They offer a healthier aesthetic
Materials in many of your projects; what are the benefits?
I am the owner of Tadelakt Sydney and building industry most of my life,
I always recommend them to my
where the situation and substrate
with great environmental qualities, plus they are a joy to work with.
mostly using natural materials.
I have a background in permaculture
landscaping, bricklaying, and working
How did you use the ROCKCOTE
walls. Conor O’Niell of Custom Finishes me to gain some experience. Whilst on the job we suggested ROCKCOTE
Clay Plaster Decor as an alternative to paint on the rest of the walls. Olivia
loved the samples and we completed
the rest of the unit in clay, where Conor took the leading hand and gave me
some insight in to his more “broad wall”
morning light as it floods in to this beautiful little home.
Olivia create the subtle corners and
ROCKCOTE often pass my details on
giving a solid but soft aesthetic and
Queensland through to boutique
28 The Natural Artisan
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issue no 19
collaborative discussion and sharing group where tips and tricks, new
discoveries and finishes as well as lead opportunities can be shared.
Just knowing that I belong to a great
glistens and plays with the early
grand mansions in London, treetop
lustre of the sofa with built in planter,
industry specialists and a closed
together giving a flatter finish that
Tell us more about the collaborative
hideaways in Tropical North
job specifications, great advice from
What is your favourite part of being
ROCKCOTE products work so well
Natural Materials on this project?
I used ROCKCOTE Marrakesh to help
to many benefits like site specific
techniques of floating the clay. These
with specialist lime paint and plaster
finishes. My experience encompasses
accredited ROCKCOTE Artisans within
process with the other Artisans?
to new Artisans who live in the same area as me so we can work together
a ROCKCOTE Artisan?
group of like-minded and motivated
Artisans who are willing to share and
build on their knowledge in a way rarely seen in the building industry. All with a view to creating and evolving a
standard of quality, trust and respect for both the natural materials we use and the specialist trade we have
chosen to devote our working lives to.
The Home / The Natural Artisan 2.
✖ ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White.
1.
Natural and graceful, the versatility of Marrakesh can be exploited to create a traditional flat lime plaster look or a contemporary smooth polished concrete appearance. Its ability to deliver seamless finishes evokes a sense of ease and continuity. 4. 7.
3.
6. 5.
4.
TH IS PAGE 1.
Mr Maria Miffy First Light Lamp
5.
2.
pampa.com.au
Leif Lillpilly Hand Wash, $35, 6.
leifproducts.com 3.
6.
American Oak Queen Bed, $7250, oliviabossy.com
Sheet Metal Plant Stand in Blush, 7.
$220, bendo.com.au 4.
At Home in Joshua Tree, A Field Guide to Desert Living $45,
$132, themodernnursery.com
Monte Pom Pom cushion No 27,
ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White, rockcote.com.au
$195, pampa.com.au
issue no 19
/ The Natural Artisan
29
DREAM
W E AV E R S
CROSSING THREADS TEXTILE ARTISTS
The talented sisters chat to us about practicing mindfulness through their craft, the joy of being artisans and their unique shared heritage that influences and inspires their designs. WORDS: NINA DORN
// P H OTO G R A P H Y: C R OS S I N G T H R E A DS
The Artisan / The Natural Artisan
HOW AND WHEN DID
CROSSING THREADS BEGIN?
We always opt to use natural fibres such
W H AT A DVA N TAG E S A R E T H E R E
as merino wool, alpaca, bamboo, silk and
TO WORKING WITH A SIBLING?
Since we were children, we have always
linen as it offers such a distinctive finish
We are able to easily understand each
been interested in craft. Being sisters and
compared to synthetics. We also try to
other, even down to finishing each other’s
also close in age (13 months apart), we’ve
tread lighter on the environment
sentences! We also share the same values
always enjoyed being each other’s support.
whenever we can.
and this has helped to make it both a
For a large part of our lives, we grew up dancing. Our love for textiles grew as we
W H AT A R E YO U R FAVO U R I T E
logical and practical decision to partner with each another. The authenticity to be
spent many hours at fabric stores
M AT E R I A L S TO W O R K W I T H ?
selecting fabric and trimmings for our
Felted merino wool, hand-spun linen and
and being able to bounce ideas off each
dance costumes. After our first
bamboo. A large part of our fibre curations
other is very positive, especially concern-
introductory workshop to tapestry
involves up-cycled fabrics and denim, as
ing the practice of creating art and putting
weaving in early 2015, we immediately
well as leather and sari silk.
something so personal out into the world.
H O W D O E S YO U R H E R I TAG E
YOUR WORK HAS BEEN
our craft. Through extensive experimenta-
INSPIRE YOUR DESIGNS?
tion, we gradually became more confident
When our parents immigrated from the
HOMES - WHICH HAVE BEEN
in finding our authentic voice as textile
Philippines in the 1980's, their pursuit to
S TA N D O U T S FO R YO U ?
artists. This “hobby” organically grew into
live “a better life” has shaped us and our
Working on The Barefoot Bay Cottage with
a “side hustle” after generating strong
outlook on how we define success. We
The Designory was so rewarding (see The
interest in commission work via our
have always been encouraged to find the
Natural Artisan Issue 18). Being able to
Instagram profile.
potential in whatever situation we have
experience our artwork in its forever home
access to. This helped shape our creative
was very special as most of our artworks
vision for Crossing Threads. Our family
are sent internationally. Whether it's a
has been such a great support circle,
commercial space or a family suburban
offering a helping hand whenever they
home it's the connection we form with our
Definitely! The use of natural fibres
can. We discovered that our great
clients that matters most to us. Our
running through your hands is so
grandmother was actually a ‘habi’ weaver
commissioned work has our client’s
therapeutic and a luxury that we take for
and wove in the native Filipino way. Our
personal narrative woven into the piece,
granted. Given that there has been a
father is an architect who creates our
holding more resonance than just a piece
resurgence for ‘handmade’, we truly
custom giant looms. We call him the
of art on the wall. Seeing how it interacts
appreciate the feeling of gratitude when
"master of structural integrity"!
with the space and makes our clients feel
caught “weaver fever” and spent many weekends together practicing and honing
D O E S W O R K I N G W I T H N AT U R A L
M AT E R I A L S G I V E S YO U A S E N S E OF CALM AND WELLBEING?
true to ourselves without fear of judgment
D I S PL AY E D I N SO M E B E AU T I F U L
we create an artwork, knowing each fibre
on a daily basis is the highlight of our
has brushed our hand at any given point.
work at Crossing Threads.
issue no 19
/ The Natural Artisan
31
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