Welcome back to another edition of our Industry Journal where we explore the artistry, craftsmanship, and visionaries shaping our environment Each issue brings together an inspiring lineup of industry leaders, offering unique perspectives on design and the creative journey
It never ceases to amaze me how the individuals who spark groundbreaking ideas and transform them into breathtaking designs, are shaped by such a diverse array of histories and experiences Perhaps that’s what makes this industry so special, so compelling Design is not just about creation; it’s about reimagining, refining, and bringing timeless beauty to life with personal identity and authenticity
Some create with their hands, some with their minds, while others draw from the past to craft something entirely new We are fortunate to be surrounded by such inspiring people, yet we often don’t take the time to truly understand what drives them, what fuels their passion, what compels them toward excellence, and what lasting impression they hope to leave on the world
I hope this edition ignites that curiosity within you. Not just for the incredible minds featured in these pages, but for those around you every day. Take a moment to ask, to listen, and to be inspired.
Enjoy the read.
Ben
BUCKAND SIMPLE ARCHITECTS
ACONVERSATION WITHPETERAHERN
FOUNDED IN 2013 BY PETER AHERN AND KURT CRISP, BUCK & SIMPLE IS A DESIGN-DRIVEN ARCHITECTURE STUDIO KNOWN FOR ITS COMMITMENT TO CRAFTSMANSHIP, ATTENTION TO DETAIL, AND THE INHERENT BEAUTY OF SIMPLICITY THEIR PROJECTS BALANCE REFINED AESTHETICS WITH FUNCTIONAL PRACTICALITY, CREATING HOMES THAT FEEL BOTH TIMELESS AND DEEPLY PERSONAL IN THIS CONVERSATION, PETER DISCUSSES THE STUDIO’S APPROACH TO ARCHITECTURE, THE PHILOSOPHY BEHIND THEIR WORK, AND HOW THEIR RECENT PROJECT, LITTLE BIRCH HOUSE, EMBODIES THEIR PURSUIT OF THOUGHTFUL, ENDURING DESIGN
Can you tell us what a typical day in your studio looks like and how your surroundings inspire you?
Our Manly based office is a fairly casual affair We’re all busy on our respective projects and find we use the office as a hub as we each negotiate different build stages and project programs. Working together for as long as we have, we tend to fit informal discussions and project reviews in between general office banter across the day. We’re all pretty active and love being in Manly so are often out in any downtime sneaking in a surf, swim or run. Being so coastal we ' re driven by the climate and find there's possibly an inordinate amount of wind chat on a daily basis. It's hard not to think of the weather's impact when the southerly is up.
Your studio places a strong emphasis on simplicity and craftsmanship. How does this philosophy guide your approach to designing bespoke residences like Little Birch House?
Building can be a messy game of multiple stakeholders and inputs; so we try not to complicate it further We leverage our existing relationships and clear, simple communication to ease the process where we can On the design side we like to approach challenges from first principles; once that initial idea is formed, we hold it, continuously referring back to ensure the purity of the concept remains at the end We try to allow spaces and forms to be pared back and refined, so that a simple gesture or lavishing the luxury of time on a specific detail can be the focus
Good quality construction goes hand in hand with this approach, it excites us to see artisans deliver and contribute their skillset to a project There’s a lot to be said for simple things done well
Can you take us through your design process, from conception to completion?
That's potentially a very long winded answer so I'll give the touch points It does vary for each project, but after a site visit we’ll set out from the client brief with a lot of hand sketching We find hand drawing is still the best way to explore ideas We request clients give us the autonomy to answer their brief and trust the result We’ve left behind the regimented linear design process and also prioritise a full service design commission as we feel this allows us to consider the design in totality
We’ll be concurrently assessing planning, climate, construction details, costs, joinery etc We work through ideas, concepts and layouts; once things are firmed up a bit we’ll get the design into our 3D cad software to allow us to present to the client From here we focus on approvals and construction documentation
We tend to work with a few builders who we have established relationships with and trust, and pair them with clients we feel are a good fit. On site we love seeing the build come to life, and we make sure we ’ re engaged to provide ongoing site assistance, ensuring a high quality end result for all parties.
The description of Little Birch House mentions a blend of “resort vibes” with the practicality of daily living. What was the inspiration behind this vision, and how did you bring it to life?
Our client often spoke warmly about past overseas travels, and I think there was also a bit of a bad taste leftover from covid lockdowns, driving a desire for a space that could feel like an escape while being functional for daily life We wanted a home where bare feet ruled, indoor and outdoor lines were blurred and the home fostered a sense of calm
Planning focused on creating these moments A garden oasis forms the backdrop for lower ground living where we sought to create incidental nooks, places where the family could spread out in a compact footprint A bench seat here, an extended stair tread there, all interwoven with traditional furnishing Upper floor vistas were directed between buildings, or focused on greenery or cityscapes beyond to enhance a sense of retreat We’re very happy with the result; different parts of the home offer different vibes suited to the spaces, and that lower ground, you feel a million miles from anywhere, it's rather nice
The ribbon-like concrete staircase is a standout feature of Little Birch House. Could you walk us through the creative and technical process of designing this architectural element?
This one was a bit of bad timing, but the right team The staircase was always envisioned as a sculptural centrepiece - a blend of function and artistry but not in concrete Lengthy lead times in fabrication forced us to change tack and completely redesign Our engineer and build team were stellar on this and we worked closely, with a flurry of hand sketches and text message to get to a result commensurate of the space The fact the bottom tread doesn't actually visibly connect, is one of those key moments of celebrating the detail on the project that we love.
You’ve mentioned how skylights and borrowed vistas contribute to a sense of the infinite. How did these details evolve during the design process, and what role do they play in shaping the home’s atmosphere?
Key from the early stages was the need to work with the constraints of the site if we were to deliver an oasis in an urban setting We sought to shape planning to deliver vistas that open up, reveal or turn away from the surrounding context, stealing what we could and hiding what we didn’t want Skylights? Yes, it’s no secret we find them transformative to spaces, they allow us to control daylighting and shadow, not only enhancing spatial dynamics but also imbuing the home with a sense of openness and tranquillity
Little Birch House is described as being designed for the “rigours of idyllic family life.” How do you balance aesthetic excellence with practicality in your designs for families?
We don't necessarily find those notions mutually exclusive We see luxury and excellence in the considered and refined, in lieu of the ostentatious Robust finishes and simple resolutions, suited to a family home can be melded into well crafted details To further imbue that sense of the effortless there’s a lot of hidden usability, large scale unfussy joinery conceals storage & more service oriented spaces across the home.
How do you approach designing spaces that foster a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living, as seen in this project?
We often like to leverage unimpeded structure where practical, in conjunction with large format operability to interweave spaces On a more detailed level the stalwarts of continuation of finishes, level transitions and creating a focal point linking spaces still deliver Little Birch has some pretty impressive spans
Sustainability is increasingly a priority in residential design. Were there any specific sustainable or energy-efficient strategies integrated into the design of Little Birch House?
For us, sustainability has always just been a cornerstone of good design Embracing effective passive design principles means the house is tailored to specific site conditions, micro and macro climate We utilised strategic planning, positioning of glazing & awnings to shield summer sun but allow for winter thermal gain Heavy insulation and lofty void spaces with extensive operable components, cross ventilate and draw heat up and out through roof ventilation, allowing the home to breathe. Glazing was strategically placed and designed to maximise natural light internally, create a sense of wellbeing, and connect to the external environment, while minimising artificial lighting during the day. It’s no secret that concrete has a higher level of embodied carbon when compared to timber framed construction, but when considering life cycle analysis, the benefits in shaded thermal mass, and new developments in low-carbon concrete, the use case improves.
Feedback has been that the home is proving to be incredibly comfortable without the need for active cooling, and minimal winter heating For us sustainability works on multiple levels; reducing energy usage works in tandem with thermal comfort, controlled through a building envelope that responds to the changing weather conditions throughout the day and year
What emotions or experiences did you aim to evoke for the family living in Little Birch House, and how do you see those intentions reflected in the final outcome?
You know those lazy days on holiday, a day or so after arriving, distractions are removed, where you can noticeably just feel yourself unwind ? That Yes, we ’ re very pleased with the result The best part, and I suppose validation, is receiving photos of little moments from the client, be it a shot of a family gathering with the house in full swing, working, or just a really nice moment in the sun They’re happy
What current trends or innovations in architecture and design are you most excited about? Are there any directions you ’ re keen to explore in future projects?
There seems to be maturation in the Australian mindset and approach to good quality design, and the improvements it can bring both in capital and day to day living terms We’ve seen clients place more trust in their design team and the results are delivering In terms of innovation, to be honest it’s possibly a return to more rudimentary construction in lieu of the exotic
As we examine life cycle dynamics with tried and tested methods, some of the incremental improvements in low carbon additives and development partnered with good design see us exploiting the benefits of rammed earth, fired clay, sustainable timbers, green roof tech, and even concrete to deliver sustainable homes that you actually want to live in.
The smart home and automation field is growing rapidly, and some of our clients are increasingly leaning into a high-tech approach. We’re excited to further explore how home automation can further improve the sustainability of a home, through a highly responsive façade activated by smart sensors and live weather data
If you had to work amidst a landscape that wasn’t typical of Sydney, where would you love to see and create one of your projects?
We’d love to design a project in a remote, rugged landscape - give us wide open spaces
The challenge of integrating architecture with extreme natural settings would be an exciting opportunity to push the boundaries of siteresponsive design So any lush green rolling hills, big sky country or empty stretches of coast will do just nicely
Photography by Tim Pascoe
MARIA PAPANTONIOU
BALANCING ELEGANCEAND REBELLION
MARIA’S APPROACH TO STYLING IS A MASTERFUL BLEND OF TIMELESS ELEGANCE AND BOLD INDIVIDUALITY, SEAMLESSLY WEAVING TOGETHER INFLUENCES FROM MIDCENTURY MODERNISM, EUROPEAN HERITAGE, AND CONTEMPORARY DESIGN. WITH A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE WORKING ALONGSIDE AUSTRALIA’S TOP ARCHITECTS AND DESIGNERS HER WORK IS DEFINED BY A METICULOUS EYE FOR DETAIL, AN APPRECIATION FOR ARCHITECTURAL STORYTELLING, AND A PASSION FOR CURATING SPACES THAT FEEL BOTH REFINED AND EFFORTLESS IN THIS INTERVIEW, MARIA SHARES INSIGHTS INTO HER CREATIVE PHILOSOPHY, THE INFLUENCE OF EUROPEAN ARCHITECTURE, AND HER UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE REVISITING THE ICONIC GOLDSTEIN RESIDENCE
Can you tell us about what you do and what drew you to the world of styling and design?
My passion for design and style has been with me for as long as I can remember I’ve always been drawn to the aesthetics of mid-century architecture, furniture and fashion – the clean lines, thoughtful forms, and functional beauty of the era I truly believe the mid-century modern movement paved the way for so much of the design we see today; it was more than just a trend, it was a shift in how people approached space, form, and simplicity.
What inspires your design philosophy? Are there particular artists, movements, or personal experiences that have shaped your creative direction?
My design philosophy is rooted in modernism, shaped by a blend of timeless elegance and rebellious energy From a young age, I was obsessed with Frank Lloyd Wright’s ‘Falling Water’, which awakened my passion for mid-century design That initial fascination led me to dig deeper in the era, exploring its clean lines, organic form, harmonious connection between architecture and nature - all of which continue to influence my creative direction.
Among the European architects who inspire me are Carlo Scarpa His poetic blend of modernism and craftsmanship Ricardo Bofill’s bold visionary approach and his ability to reimagine spaces on an epic scale while maintaining a sense of surrealism and drama Mies van der Rohe, whose philosophy is ‘less is more ’ , revolutionised modern architecture Les Corbusiers visionary approach and radical thinking blending sculptural form with functionality –redefined architecture into living spaces.
Fashion designers have had a profound impact on my direction also Pierre Cardin’s futuristic and bold designs, especially his “Palais Bulles” in Cannes, pushed boundaries and embraced geometric forms, and furniture design that challenged conventionality Yves Saint Laurent interiors, particularly his Marrakech home, reflects an exquisite balance of bold colour and pattern. Halston’s interiors, characterised by sleek modern designs with understated sophistication and the use of mirrors and bold yet simple shapes, emphasise timeless elegance with seamless transitions between rooms
I’m also inspired by the allure of old Hollywood glamour and cultural icons Their effortless style, understated confidence, and cinematic presence shape the refined, dramatic tension in my work At the same time my love for rock and roll music and the arts injects a bold, raw edge into my designs. I was captivated with the set from Peter Sellers ‘The Party”, and the Bond Houses Every visit to LA I make sure I head to Palm Springs – my mid-century heaven Its where architecture, design, and effortless style of that era come alive and never fails to inspire
Your work seamlessly blends contemporary style with influences from the past. How do you balance modern aesthetics with timeless design elements?
My work is about balancing elegance with rebellion creating design that feel both classic and contemporary, polished yet unapologetically bold. It’s the contrast that defines my aesthetic: where clean, modern lines meet unexpected daring details
Spending time in Europe each year, how do you think being immersed in its architectural culture and heritage has shaped your approach to styling and design?
Spending time in Europe has deeply influenced my approach to styling and design The effortless style of Europeans, combined with the richness of their classic history has taught me how to blend timeless elegance with modern simplicity I’m especially inspired by the unique aesthetics of different cultures – the understated sophistication of the French, the bold flair of the Italians, minimal, functional beauty of Danish design, and the timeless, architectural influence of Greek culture
This exposure has shaped my creative perspective, showing me how to balance history with contemporary edge, creating designs that feel both refined and effortlessly authentic.
You’ve collaborated with some of Australia’s most renowned architects and designers How have these collaborations influenced your creative process?
This has been incredibly influential in shaping my creative progress I’ve learnt a lot along the way – each designer brings their own unique style, perspective and approach It’s inspiring to see how each creative mind works, and it's taught me the importance of adaptability. These collaborations have shown me how to take diverse visions and help bring them to life, while still infusing my own design sensibilities It’s a dynamic exchange of ideas that pushes me to think differently, refine my process, and continue evolving as a designer/stylist
Working alongside photographers has been invaluable to my creative process also. It’s given me the ability to see spaces from a different perspective - through the lens of light, composition and framing It’s helped me think more critically about how a space is experienced visually, not just in person but through imagery
What are some of the biggest challenges you face when styling a space, and how do you overcome them?
Every space presents its own set of challenges, which is what I love most about styling. No space is the same, and that’s where the excitement comes in – my mind goes into overdrive, constantly exploring new ways to approach each project One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that every design feels fresh and authentic I don’t like to repeat items or ideas because I believe each space deserves its own unique identity
To overcome, I focus on the details – whether it’s through custom pieces, unexpected material combinations, or thoughtful layering I draw inspiration from the architecture, the environment, and the story behind the space, which helps me create something distinctive every time It’s about pushing boundaries while staying true to the essence of the space
With a decade of experience, how has the world of interior styling evolved, and where do you see it heading in the future?
With a decade of experience in interior styling, I’ve definitely seen the industry evolve in some fascinating ways. Over the years, the focus has shifted from highly curated, "perfect" spaces to more authentic, lived-in designs that reflect individual personalities and lifestyles There's been a real shift towards sustainability too - people are more mindful about where their furniture comes from, how long it will last, and whether it has a minimal environmental impact And I think what comes around goes back around Trends that once seemed outdated, like mid-century modern or vintage inspired pieces, have made a comeback, but with modern twists that make them feel fresh There’s a bigger emphasis on mixing styles, textures, and eras to create more unique, personalised spaces
If you could style a space anywhere in the world, with complete creative freedom, where would it be and what would it look like?
I’d go back to where my passion for design began - Frank Lloyd Wright’s Falling Water Styling Fallingwater would be about honouring Wright’s philosophy while reinterpreting through a modern lens I’d focus on enhancing the dialogue between nature and the structure, using textures and forms to enhance the surroundings, using natural materials and refined textures to echo the homes original palette
I’d introduce contemporary minimalist sculptural furnishings pieces that complement the flow of light and water through the space without competing with the architecture and custom lighting to highlight the interplay of shadows Rather than altering the essence of Fallingwater, I’d aim to create a conversation between the past and the present.
It would be the ultimate full-circle moment-breathing new life into the place where my love for architecture took root and shaped my creative soul
A recent editorial that stood out to us was your feature on the iconic Goldstein Residence. How did this experience come about?
After COVID, I was working on an article for my feature page in Belle Magazine on Brutalism I had visited the house previously and remembered the striking extension with the infinity tennis court
I reached out to Roberta, Goldstein’s right hand, who shared details about all the new work that had been done I absolutely had to see it and feature it My passion for John Lautner’s work actually grew from my early fascination with Frank Lloyd Wright There’s something extraordinary about how Lautner pushed the boundaries of organic architecture, and the Goldstein House is a perfect testament to that vision
You first visited the Goldstein Residence ten years ago, how did your perception of the house change upon returning, especially after seeing the recent extensions?
Returning after a decade, I had to brace myself, I was fascinated by how my perception had evolved Seeing the recent extension firsthand, which includes an entertainment space, VIP room/library, offices for Goldstein and his assistants, a movie screening room, an outdoor terrace with dining and kitchen facilities, and a pool and spa
What stood out to me the most during the visit was how Lautner’s bold, angular forms were seamlessly carried out through into the new extension I was ecstatic that Goldstein had remained true to Lautner’s vision while thoughtfully integrating new elements The original house still holds that breathtaking tension between organic from and futuristic ambition-it’s as if it defies time, standing both as a relic and a beacon of architectural innovation
John Lautner’s original design is renowned for its bold geometric forms and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. What elements of his vision stood out to you the most during your visit?
The geometry isn’t just present in the architecture – it’s echoed in the furniture the lighting and even the smallest design details, creating a cohesive dialogue through each space
The master bedroom in particular is extraordinary. The retractable glass walls completely dissolve the boundary between indoors and outdoors, allowing the space to open up to breathtaking view of Los Angeles The way the room feels both private and infinite at the same time is pure Lautner There’s the shallow reflecting pool that runs alongside the space and then there’s the cantilevered sink –sculptural yet functional, suspended as if floating, with water cascading in a way that feels almost elemental.
Combined with the clean lines and raw materials, it’s a masterclass in minimalism and organic design It’s this effortless blending of structure, nature an innovation that makes the original house timeless and continually captivating
James Goldstein’s extensions stay true to Lautner’s legacy while introducing new functions like entertainment spaces, a nightclub, and lush gardens How do you think these additions enhance or evolve the original design?
I think the new additions enhance the original design by amplifying Lautner’s core vision rather than competing with it The gardens create a richer dialogue between the architecture and the landscape, softening the bold geometry with organic textures while reinforcing the seamless indoor-outdoor flow that Lautner championed The entertainment quarter and nightclub introduce a new energy to the property, but they do so in a way that feels like a natural extension of the original design ethos The use of angular forms, reflective surfaces and carefully curated lighting maintains the architectural language Lautner established, while the spaces themselves celebrate the kind of futuristic glamour that the house has always embodied
Custom concrete and glass furniture, angular motorised windows, and the waffle-grid ceiling are just some of the home’s standout details. Were there any specific features that left a lasting impression on you?
The new infinity pool truly left me speechless. It’s not just a striking addition; it feels like a natural evolution of the original design The way it seamlessly extends towards the horizon creates an almost surreal connection with the landscape, blurring the line between architecture and nature – something that Lautner mastered in the original pool design They share the same dialogue reflecting the same principles of fluidity and openness Both water features enhance the sense of weightlessness and expansiveness that defines the house
Many legendary homes lose their essence over time due to renovations that stray from the original intent. In your opinion, what makes James Goldstein’s additions successful in preserving the home’s legacy?
Instead of imposing a new identity, the additions create a dialogue with the original structure They respect Lautner’s commitment to organic architecture, using materials, forms, and spatial relationships that feel like natural extensions of his design philosophy
Ultimately, the success lies in the restraint and respect shown in the renovations. They enhance the experience of the space without diluting its soul, allowing the house to evolve while staying true to its legacy
Having now seen the Goldstein Residence twice, what do you think makes it such an enduring icon within the architecture and design community?
It’s ability to evolve while remaining timeless. Lautner’s vision was so ahead of it’s time that still feel contemporary today What struck me on both visits is how the house isn’t a static piece of architecture The way the light moves through the waffle grid ceiling, the retractable glass walls that dissolve boundaries, and even the water features - all of it creates an immersive experience that feels both futuristic and deeply connected to nature The harmonious flow and connection between the different rooms and areas, where elements, colours, textures, and materials all speak to one another The sense of continuity and in how each part of the interiors relates to the other, creating a unified and seamless experience
The recent additions only reinforce this They honour Lautner’s legacy while introducing new layers of design that keep the house relevant and inspiring It’s that rare quality of being both a historical masterpiece and a forward-looking space that cements its iconic status
Finally, what current projects are you working on at the moment and what excites you?
I’m currently working alongside an architect and builder on a heritage house in Woollahra, where we are restoring the original structure while adding a modern extension What excites me about this project is the challenge of balancing the rich heritage elements with contemporary design, creating a seamless dialogue between the old and new
I’m also working on a contemporary coastal home, which allows me to play with a softer palette for a relaxed, coastal elegance with a pop of colour Additionally, I’m designing a new showroom which gives me the creative freedom to craft a space that’s both functional and visually striking, showcasing the product in an inspiring way
mpdsinfo@gmail com www.marooshka.com.au
Photography - Anson Smart, Tim O’connor & Dusti Cunningham
TOM FEREDAY
DESIGNINGWITH PURPOSEAND
TIMELESS
CRAFTSMANSHIP
TOM FEREDAY'S APPROACH TO DESIGN IS ROOTED IN A DEEP APPRECIATION FOR NATURAL MATERIALS AND A COMMITMENT TO ‘HONEST DESIGN’ HIS WORK SEAMLESSLY BALANCES FORM AND FUNCTION, RESULTING IN PIECES THAT NOT ONLY ENDURE BUT EVOLVE WITH TIME THROUGH COLLABORATIONS WITH RENOWNED BRANDS LIKE LOUIS VUITTON AND ALESSI, FEREDAY HAS MAINTAINED HIS DISTINCT AESTHETIC WHILE EMBRACING NEW CREATIVE CHALLENGES IN THIS CONVERSATION, HE SHARES INSIGHTS INTO HIS DESIGN PHILOSOPHY, THE INFLUENCE OF MATERIALITY ON HIS WORK, AND HIS VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF FURNITURE IN CONTEMPORARY SPACES
Your designs explore the ‘tension between natural materials and contemporary manufacture ’ How did this approach evolve, and what drew you to this unique focus?
After a number of years of developing furniture I began to learn that longevity is the important factor in my work and trying to create a body of work that grows with elegance as it ages resulted in me seeking to not only work with natural materials but to celebrate them I found that this tension and interplay offered positive constraints to my work from which to draw new ideas
Your principle of ‘honest design’ is compelling. Could you elaborate on what ‘honest design’ means to you and how it shapes your work?
It is a term I began to use at the very beginning of my career to define how I saw my role in producing work whereby no matter where you looked inside or out of a piece there was nothing to hide I found again that having these 'positive constraints' helped me define my identity and process in design
Hobart also has a strong hospitality sector, which has supported us in making commercial sales but also exposing our brand and product to new clients We're proud to be a part of the local music scene where we provide technical support and also product to bars, breweries, nightclubs, restaurants, we just don't have a cinema, yet
How do you approach balancing form and function, especially in pieces that require both usability and aesthetic appeal?
I think the key is to develop works which retain both aesthetic and functional longevity. If either fail then the product does not retain an inherent value over time I think treating these as combined problems has resulted in more paired back elegant results that upon inspection reveal their innovation or ingenuity.
As you ’ ve worked with renowned brands like Louis Vuitton and Alessi, how do you adapt your design language to fit their brand while staying true to your aesthetic?
It's a very interesting point however often brands may seek out designers because of their design identity and ethos In the case of most collaborations we have this is always a consideration as you work with a brand but must keep your identity. I think it is a fantastic challenge and one that I relish looking at and understanding a brand to then consider how I might contribute in a positive and perhaps unexpected way. The hope is that a collaboration creates something greater than the individual or the company
Your designs often involve collaborations. What do you look for in a collaborator, and how do partnerships influence the final outcome?
Shared ethos in celebration of natural materials, a commitment to try to create something truly unique and I hope for long term collaborations that can grow and evolve Finally, I think simply just working with good people who are kind and care about design
When creating a new product, how much of the design is driven by the material versus the intended function or aesthetic?
It is very hard to say, some pieces I have mulled over in my mind for a couple of years before even beginning any formal concept and other times just through naive explorations of material I might come up with a possible process or direction that I would like to explore I think I am constantly looking to challenge myself and work in categories or areas that ultimately one day can fill an entire home
Could you explain your philosophy of ‘quiet innovation’? How does this subtlety manifest in your designs, and is there a specific project that you feel best embodies this?
I first began training as an industrial designer and in fact designed many products and technical pieces before furniture What I found was that when innovation was integral to the form the most elegant results may be found In short I am trying to develop works with both aesthetic and functional longevity I like it when a design reveals itself over time creating a piece that grows on you and quietly sits in the home
How do you envision the role of furniture in contemporary spaces? Do you see it as purely functional, or does it serve a larger purpose?
I think they are the few objects in a space that physically interact with people. When developing furniture of course the pieces must elegantly function within a space however pieces must consider the wellbeing and comfort of people This is where for me natural material and considered forms can instill a feeling of calm and ultimately wellbeing for people at work or home
What are some of the most valuable lessons you ’ ve learned from collaborating with local artisans and manufacturers?
To be guided by their expertise but also try to push for a unique outcome Often these are individuals with decades of expertise in a specific material or process and learning and understanding their skillset can reveal opportunities.
Finally, is there a dream project or material you haven’t yet worked with but are eager to explore in future designs?
I have begun collaborating on more holistic projects such as complete restaurants or public spaces; however one project I would love to work on is a complete home of furniture across every space to push myself to see how an identity from one designer could translate across an entire home.
CABINETTI PANELS
ELEVATING CRAFTSMANSHIP ANDDESIGN
Born from a heritage steeped in artisanal tradition and a relentless drive for innovation, Cabinetti Panels has redefined the possibilities of bespoke joinery At its helm, Mark Mastroianni draws upon a rich family legacy of craftsmanship, coupled with a global perspective, to deliver designs that merge artistry, functionality, and inspiration
The story of Cabinetti Panels gained momentum during a transformative visit to Latho Timber Finishes in Treviso, Italy "From my first conversation with Latho, I knew we shared the same business ideology, custom joinery, impeccable service, and timeless style," Mastroianni explains The visit marked the genesis of a collaboration that would bring the intricate patterns and tactile beauty of Latho’s timber profiles to Australian shores, giving rise to Cabinetti Panels.
Mastroianni’s journey is a testament to the influence of a creative lineage Growing up amidst a family of artisans, from his nonno ’ s workshop filled with handbuilt creations to the precise tailoring and crossstitching of his parents, he developed an intrinsic understanding of design as both art and function. "These experiences instilled a passion for craftsmanship that’s fuelled everything I create," he shares
This foundation is evident in Cabinetti Panels, which blends innovative textures with a timeless aesthetic. The Milledand Move collections, with their dynamic profiles and patterned veneers, reflect Mastroianni’s approach of finding inspiration everywhere - from tiled floors and architectural facades to the natural grain of timber These panels are more than materials; they are sensory experiences that enrich the spaces they inhabit.
As joinery trends evolve, Cabinetti Panels stays ahead of the curve literally. With curves dominating modern design, the panels’ flexibility ensures seamless integration into any project Mastroianni also notes a resurgence of exotic timbers like American Walnut, which, while classic, are becoming the centerpiece of contemporary interiors
The Move collection exemplifies this versatility, with its patterned veneers designed to adapt to various architectural styles "We create materials that architects and interior designers can use to push the boundaries of their vision," Mastroianni says These collaborations with high-end designers have not only refined Cabinetti Panels’ offerings but also built a reputation for quality and trust.
Looking ahead, Cabinetti Panels has ambitious plans
The 2025 showroom promises to be a tactile and visual feast, showcasing collaborations with influential brands and presenting the finesse of their products in a uniquely immersive environment "We want visitors to experience the artistry and quality of Cabinetti Panels firsthand," Mastroianni reveals.
New materials and profiles are already in development, as the team explores innovative technologies and timber species to inspire future designs
Despite the business’s growth, Mastroianni’s passion remains firmly rooted in the craft itself "Every project brings a sense of satisfaction and fuels the drive to keep raising the bar," he reflects
Cabinetti Panels stands as a beacon of honest craftsmanship and thoughtful design, embodying the synergy of tradition and innovation. Whether through the meticulous grain of a timber panel or the seamless curve of a bespoke design, Cabinetti continues to elevate the art of joinery, one project at a time
CLAYTON TERRACOTTA FAÇADE SYSTEM
MERGINGTRADITIONWITH MODERNITY
In a world where architecture increasingly seeks to reconnect people with nature, the Clayton Terracotta Façade System offers a unique blend of aesthetic and functional benefits, embodying centuries-old craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. A creation from Fairview, Clayton’s terracotta cladding system brings together timeless beauty, sustainability, and high performance, making it a compelling choice for today’s architectural needs
Terracotta, used for millennia in art and architecture, holds a revered place in history. Its earthen warmth and natural resilience have made it an enduring choice Clayton capitalises on these characteristics, crafting terracotta cladding that is both robust and ecologically sound This system is designed to maintain its integrity and beauty over decades, providing an environmentally friendly option made from 100% clay that can be recycled or repurposed, reinforcing a circular life cycle that appeals to environmentally conscious builders and architects.
The Clayton system embraces the principles of biophilic design, bringing the warmth of natural materials into the built environment It offers architects nearly unlimited design potential, with a vast range of colours, finishes, textures, and shapes. These options allow for creative expression, whether aiming for minimalist sleekness or dramatic three-dimensional facades Advanced production techniques make it possible to mold terracotta into diverse profiles and textures, enhancing a building’s appearance with shadow play, depth, and vibrant colour palettes that withstand fading over time.
Clayton terracotta façades go beyond visual appeal, serving as a durable, energy-efficient rainscreen system This ventilated system includes an air cavity that naturally regulates a building’s temperature, resulting in reduced HVAC energy use The thermal mass of terracotta minimises heat transfer, contributing to the structure’s thermal performance while improving occupant comfort Additionally, Clayton’s dust-resistant, anti-static surfaces simplify maintenance, particularly beneficial for high-rise structures where cleaning access is limited
With its timeless elegance, eco-friendly properties, and adaptability, the Clayton Terracotta Façade System is an ideal solution for contemporary projects. From schools to public buildings, its non-combustible rating and structural resilience meet stringent building codes, while its aesthetic adaptability allows it to seamlessly integrate into diverse architectural styles Clayton represents a modern take on a heritage material, offering a path to sustainable, beautiful, and innovative architectural design.
