In the last few months I've been taking notes from the Australian craftsmen and designers that I've stumbled upon in my late night, blurry eyed pinning and Instagram stalking. I've discovered that the Aussies, much like the Danes, whom I've been inspired by since forever, have a lovely appreciation for organic, minimal, neutral interior design that has an uncanny way of setting my mind at ease. The simple, subtle brilliance of the less is more approach to home styling, has given me new direction in my work as well as my lifestyle. Learning to scale back on my inclination to fill every vignette, to accessorize, really over complicate, instead, focusing on and appreciating the simple beauty one exquisite piece and negative space can bring to a room.
Characterized by their affinity towards raw wood finishes, soft natural fibers, clean but still cozy lines, low deep profiles, monochromatic color schemes, minimal pattern interruption and a touch of coastal woven texture, the Aussies have a way of bringing the outside in that speaks to my California side. You'll notice a dangerous and almost impractical amount of white, cream and beige, for any household with children and animals anyways, accented with strong pops of black in modern lighting or sculpture for some edge. Some flirt with the occasional mellow brown, nude or navy but never more then a wink.
This aesthetic must be result of a life long minimalist saturation. It has to be, in order to curate spaces that feel half barren but still so thoughtful, like every piece was pined over, made by hand or a treasured heirloom. I've never been to Australia but I am some how transported by these images. My goal is to get to that point in my work and aesthetic that makes people feel the same way. To take the time to weed out the nonsense and focus on what really speaks to the soul of my design personality. Although ever evolving, I think organic minimalist is here to stay for a bit.
Here are a few designers and craftsmen I've discovered that have really turned me on. Some, more minimal than others but all staying true to that clean, organic, neutral aesthetic that makes the Aussies so damn on point.
Pop and Scott- Known readily for their plush dreamer sofa, its low deep body and clean raw wood frame is just the perfect piece for building a minimal space.
Pampa- I'm giddy over their cushions, but their rugs are great too. These have everything you need in a cozy accessory- great texture, natural fibers, ample size and GD pom poms. Whats better then that?
WOrn Store- If you don't know who these chicks are yet, then get on board. Their whole vibe is hitting me in the gut, in a good way, and i'm truly inspired by the quality and tranquility of their pieces as well as the ease they lend to the Aussie lifestyle. Seriously makes me want to book a flight to Byron Bay tomorrow.
Bicker Designs- This group can turn the smallest beach surf shack into a peaceful sanctuaries of clean, organic Australian perfection. A bit Scandinavian, a little beachy boho, but entirely beautiful.
Armadillo&Co.- Their rugs are on everyone's radar, and for good reason. They are sustainably, ecologically and responsibly handmade to provide the perfect neutral backdrop to your new minimal living spaces.
Douglas and Bec- A little more modern and sleek, less beachy boho but non the less, really classic clean design in natural materials and textures. Their lighting is quite special and they are definitly your go to for a bit more funk and color if you are so inclined.
If money was no issue, and I didn't have an infant and a golden pony at home, here is what my new Aussie inspired living room would look like, in case you were wondering ; )
1. Worn Side Table 2. Pop and Scott Sofa 3.. New Form 2 4. Kartique coffee table 5. Jardan Bookcase 6. Pampa pillow 7. Serge Mouille Sconce 8. Cane Lounger 9. Drift Weave Rug 10. Monte Striped Rug 11. Smith tan sling chair