Kurt’s Ironworks: Metal mastery
James Zemnos spends at least three hours a day driving to and from Kurt's Ironworks in Thomastown. He doesn't begrudge a minute of it. "I've never been so happy in my work," says the former automobile industry executive-turned-blacksmith.
Paprika & Lime: The power of colour
Sydney interior designer Pip Robb is best known for her armchairs - mostly vintage ones that she restores and re-upholsters to riveting effect. Her Melbourne aunt, Helen Robb-Lacey, is an astute businesswoman and consultant.
Monomeith Designs: Exquisitely Australian
"How glorious it is to look up at Mt Wellington each morning, rain, snow or sunshine!" wallpaper designer Penny Maskell wrote on her blogsite in February, just after moving with her family into an 1890s house in Hobart.
Tribe Design: Leading lights
For years, Sydney's Victor De Sousa and Geoff Coombes worked in promotional marketing, sourcing enticements for multinationals and ad agencies. "The challenge was to create a tribe of followers of the brands we helped to promote," says Victor.
Theo & Joe: From cowhide to cushions
The cowhide range is a beauty: trunks and side tables with bold leather trim; benches with chrome-finish bases; ottomans featuring intricate patchwork - and all versatile.
"You could use the benches as coffee tables or end-of-bed features," says David Jordan. "The range also works well in a commercial setting - great for a smart boutique. We do lots of store fit-outs."
Surface Art: Deep Design Talent
Moyra Jones was familiar with the work of legendary Sydney artist Ken Done before she moved to Sydney in 1989. The young Scot was fascinated by Done's dazzling Australian colours and themes. She also knew about his commercial ventures.
Perhaps Done could use her fabric design and printing skills for all those homewares and resort wear collections that bore his art, mused Moyra. Indeed he could. "Ken took me on for five months and I ended up working for him for 10½ years," she says.
Crowley & Grouch: Treasures of the past
Jane Crowley loves the traditional Amish star-shaped amulets made from old corrugated iron and hung on barns used to ward off witches.
She is equally enchanted by a host of other survivors from the past, from 19th century German cabinet-makers' benches to vintage maple syrup buckets, complete with tags that note which tree provided the sap.
Plans for the triple attraction at Decoration + Design are well advanced. "We'll be showing a gentleman's study, a lounge-dining area and an outdoor lounge setting," reveals Shelley Boyd. "I just hope we can fit it all into one stand."
The founder of the company that caters exclusively to architects and interior designers, and has showrooms in Brisbane, Sydney and on the Gold Coast, can be trusted to deliver with style.
French chic at Furnitex
French style specialist Bella House is preparing to promote three new lines through its upcoming showcase at the Furnitex trade fair.
With Bella House's key offer comprising a range of classic French influenced furniture including dressers, bookcases, desks, dining settings, occasional chairs, a bedroom line and more, managing director Cameron Tilley confirmed the company's new ranges would offer a blend of modern style and classic French design.
Home grown brand hits H+H
Commercial furniture specialist Anlee Industries will be setting its sights on new markets when it shows in the Hotel + Hospitality feature at the upcoming Furnitex.
Sales manager Michelle McLean said the company's rapid expansion to date had placed it in strong position for growth.
MELBOURNE 2012 DATES & OPENING HOURS
Thursday 19 July 9am - 5pm
Friday 20 July 9am - 5pm
Saturday 21 July 10am - 5pm
Sunday 22 July 10am - 4pm
Venue
Melbourne Exhibition Centre
2 Clarendon Street, Southbank,
Melbourne, Australia
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