The Natural Artisan // Issue 20

I S S U E 2 0 // F O R P E O P L E P A 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 P A C E S , P L A C E S A N D O B J E C T S

H E A LT H Y

LIFE

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 OVAT O R S

LOVE THIS

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A focus on health in this family home meant there was only one choice for walls - ROCKCOTE EcoStyle Low Sheen Paint see p.04

W E LC O M E ISSUE NO. 20 / CONTENTS 03 WELCOME 04 THE PROJECT // THE

GREENHOUSE BY SHAUN

LOCKYER ARCHITECTS 14 THE DESIGN //

THE LITTLE COMPANY SPA

BY BOBBY CLARK 20 THE INFLUENCER // PAMPA 24 THE HOME // THE HILLSIDE

HOUSE BY FORMAT ARCHITECTS 30 THE ARTISAN //

ANTHONY WAKEFIELD //

ROCKCOTE ARTISAN COVER PHOTOGRAPH VICTORIA AGUIRRE // PAMPA 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

Collaboration can be a powerful design tool and here in Issue 20 of The Natural Artisan Magazine we share some beautiful spaces that have benefited from this practice. The Greenhouse by Shaun Lockyer Architects caught our eye for its combination of eco-values and sleek design which was a result of close collaboration between architect and client. The home also displays stunning pieces from ethical home-wares brand Pampa who we interview in our "Influencer's" section. Pampa owner Victoria (also a talented photographer) shot some of the images including our cover too.

So a real team effort!

The Little Company Spa displayed true team spirit when a chance encounter between the owner's and creative mind Bobby Clark resulted in her designing the Byron space. Bobby teamed up with husband Den Holm who created the beautiful custom tile's and the owners brother crafted much of the custom made furniture for this dreamy space.

Artisans frequently collaborate with architects, interior designers and builders alike. We chat to ROCKCOTE Artisan Anthony Wakefield about his work at 123 Pitt Street where he teamed up with Hassell Studio to produce the stunning interiors.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

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 issue no 20

/ The Natural Artisan

03

The Project / The Natural Artisan

H E A LT H Y

HOME THE GREEN HOUSE , BRISBANE,QLD Designed by architect Shaun Lockyer in close collaboration with the clients this serene eco-conscious home encourages its inhabitants to connect to the environment around them, without compromising on a crisp, contemporary aesthetic.

WO R DS: N I N A D O R N // PH OTO G R A PH Y: S COT T B U R ROWS / V I C TO R I A AG U I R R E

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The Project / The Natural Artisan

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issue no 19

LOVE THIS ROCKCOTE EcoStyle Low Sheen Paint in Triple Wood Smoked was used on the walls

The Project / The Natural Artisan

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT THE

weather-boards, barn doors, expressed

BRIEF FOR THE GREENHOUSE?

roof framing and deep eaves are also

The brief was for a modest in size, new

consistent with this vernacular. We

family home with a high sustainability

expanded on this idea by the creation of a

agenda. Our clients had previously seen

series of pavilions which define the

our Hinterland House which drew its

courtyard nature of the home, not

inspiration from a contemporary

typically characteristic of early century

reinterpretation of a traditional farm

country homes. Our focus was on quality

house. The Greenhouse takes this a step

of lifestyle, so it remained important for

A B O U T T H E A R C H I T E C T: SHAUN LOCKYER

further, exploring industrial materials,

us to prioritise functionality, access to

combined with rich, crafted timbers.

light and liveability over aesthetic

Please tell us a little about your

The form is largely traditional with

narrative in the hierarchy of our decision

studio ethos and approach?

pitched roofs and deep eaves, while the

making process. It is our contention that

Our focus is on modernist architecture

plan is contemporary, taking on a

the home engages with the public because

that connects people and place,

courtyard planning strategy. All of the

of its relatively simple, accessible and

Inherent within each project is a desire

materials included are intended to be as

inviting architectural form while equally

to craft memorable, sustainable and

natural and tactile as possible, favouring

challenging aspects of convention in such

texture over perfection.

a way as to deliver a more liveable,

efficient design solutions that add value to the inhabitants’ lives.

How is your studio structured?

We are a studio of 15 staff that are all hands‐on in the design and delivery of all our projects.

sustainable outcome. While visual appeal W E LOV E T H AT T H I S WA S A C O L L A B O R AT I V E P ROJ EC T – W H O WA S I N VO LV E D A N D H O W DID IT COME ABOUT?

an outcome of our decisions not the intention of them.

The clients were past clients and friends

RO C KC OT E ' S N AT U R A L

What is unique about your practice?

who had a lot of knowledge about who

M AT E R I A L S R A N G E WA S

We feel that our focus on our clients’

we were and the nature of our work. To

S P EC I F I E D T H R O U G H O U T. W H AT

wellbeing through the act of building

this end, the design process was able to

BENEFITS DID THEY OFFER?

remains a core value of the practice.

progress very quickly as there was an

A natural, healthy alternative to a lot of

We see building as being an act that is

enormous degree of trust and understand-

other renders on the market. We feel that

about people, not just about building.

ing. Our clients had undertaken a number

the texture, colour and tactility of the

We do our best to put our egos aside

of projects on their own in the past which

product was a perfect fit for the home and

made them very aware of the process and

is in a very significant way a defining

nature of decision making for a project of

characteristic of the external fabric of the

this type. The builder had past experience

house. We also feel that it ages well and

with both ourselves and the clients, which

talks to a more natural aspiration, rather

years time and why?

made the transition from design to reality

than the idea that a building remains new

Hopefully a great deal smaller. It would

both seamless and enjoyable.

and perfect forever, which we feel is an

to focus on what is best for the project with the happiness of all involved being of paramount importance to us.

What will homes look like in 50

unsustainable agenda.

be great to see more meaningful focus

P O R T R A I T: L A U R A R E I D

is always of importance to us, it remains

on the qualitative over the quantitative.

HOW HAVE YOU RESPONDED

My hope is that we will learn better

TO THE LOCAL SURROUNDINGS

W H AT A R E SO M E O F T H E

ways to build using less resources,

AND HOW HAVE THEY SHAPED

U N I Q U E F E AT U R E S O F T H E

wasting less and building more cost‐

THE FEEL OF THE PROJECT?

GREEN HOUSE HOME?

effectively in such a way that good

The home’s built form is referential of the

A significant commitment to the use of

design can touch the lives of everyone,

vernacular Australian country home,

healthy materials (and choices) within the

not just the privileged or wealthy.

primarily characterised by a linear floor

house. A strong agenda with sustainability,

plan expressed with a pitched ‘gal’ sheet

both with regards to building but also

metal roof. The use of rough sawn timber

lifestyle balance. The planning of the

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The Project / The Natural Artisan

and I work as a team. He covers the day to day on-site visits, and I work behind the scenes on proposals, marketing, styling.

Which three things can anyone do to MEET THE DESIGNER L E E-A N N S T E V E N S //

help create a healthier home?

H E A LT H Y A B O D E

electromagnetic fields.

1. Minimise your exposure to 2. Filter your drinking water.

We love the Greenhouse. Did it inspire

3. Improve your indoor air quality by

you to launch Healthy Abode?

opening windows to allow fresh air in on

Yes, I guess in a way it did. Visitors to the

a regular basis.

Greenhouse would comment on feeling right at home upon stepping inside.

How important is sustainability in the

The combination of solid timbers and

materials specified in the house?

recycled bricks gave it an earthy, warm

When renovating or building we always

and homely feel. Following all the positive

set out to tread as lightly as we can on

feedback we decided to create Healthy

the earth.

Abode, combining our skills in consultancy and project management across

You are passionate about artisan

renovations and builds with our passion

techniques – which skills were utilised

for wellbeing and living a low tox life.

on the Greenhouse?

ROCKCOTE render was used externally.

What services do you offer clients?

We used the Tyrolean application

We help clients achieve natural, clean

technique. The artisan manually flicks

and simple living to optimise health and

the render onto the walls giving a lovely

wellness in their own homes. We create

natural/ rustic finish which tied in with the

the vision, draw on our team of experts

look we wanted to achieve.

and then deliver the project. Our passion is to help clients create their forever

Tell us about the interior furnishings

homes. A sanctuary that they feel safe

and materials and the colour palette?

and secure in.

Rather than using colour we used a neutral palette incorporating different fabrics/

How do you manage running a

textures, using a combination of wool,

business with two little children?

linen, organic cotton, jute and hemp. This

Poppy is five and Violet just turned one.

in conjunction with indoor plants, beeswax

As parents we enjoy the flexibility of

candles and essential oils to create a

running our own business. My husband

calming and relaxed space.

issue no 20

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6

issue no 20

LOVE THIS Create a relaxed vibe with ROCKCOTE EcoStyle Low Sheen Paint in Triple Wood Smoked colour.

/ The Natural Artisan

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6

LOVE THIS Airy living spaces benefitted from ROCKCOTE EcoStyle Low Sheen Paint in Natural White.

" T H E R O C KC OT E R A N G E O F F E R E D A N AT U R A L , H E A LT H Y A LT E R N AT I V E T O OT H E R S O N T H E M A R K E T " house and the architectural execution of it

walls are finished in rough splattered

WHICH ASPECTS OF THE

speak to a reinterpreted Australian

plasters that develop a patina over time,

PROJECT ARE YOU MOST

farmhouse vernacular expressed in a

rather than remaining colour consistent.

HAPPY WITH?

contemporary manner, which we feel is a

Raw honed concrete floors express a

We feel that the project reflects a

defining characteristic of the home. On a

‘natural’ feel underfoot also aging with

wonderful balance of values, sustainabili-

more detail level, the recycled brickwork,

time. Recycled bricks talk to the passage

ty, care through construction and an

timber detailing, encaustic tiles, indoor/

of time and the importance of up-cycling

outcome that speaks of these things in a

outdoor bathrooms and other playful

as a priority over ‘new’ and ‘perfect’.

very tangible manner. It is a relatively

details like the stable doors offer a quirky

Encaustic tiles internally also dull over

modest home with its emphasis on

but meaningful point of difference.

time to talk of habitation rather than

qualitative lifestyle which we feel aligns

remaining perfect suggesting that the

with our architectural agendas of

home is unoccupied. Our efforts to

heightening the experience of everyday

express the inherent nature of occupation

living. It is also worth saying that we

Hardwoods were chosen on the basis of

in a home and to embrace the aging of

really love the way the house is composed

durability, texture and grain as opposed to

material as manifestation of a home

and remains very much a favourite within

consistency and perfection. Rendered

loved by its inhabitants.

the practice.

ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL FINISHES INSIDE THE HOME?

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issue no 20

The Project / The Natural Artisan 1.

Otsumigaki in Natural White.

6 ROCKCOTE A beautiful alternative to painted walls, Otsumigaki delivers a smooth, evocative aesthetic with a subtle lustre. Formulated in the tradition of lime and clay based Japanese plasters, Otsumigaki is inherently sensuous and has a subtle elegance that gives walls life yet allows the surrounding elements in the space to speak for themselves.

2.

8.

5.

3.

4.

6.

6.

7.

8.

THIS PAGE 1.

Mini Rug, $320, pampa.com.au

6.

2.

James Street Daybed in American Oak,

7.

Rattan Luggy Basket by Olli Ella, $89, daisyandhen.com.au

4.

Pampa x Posie Candle, $59, weareposie.com.au

5.

Plant Stand Tall in Copper, $88,

Mini Monte Pom Pom Cushion, $135, pampa.com.au

$4160, mrandmrswhite.net 3.

Whitman Moss Hat, $139, willandbear.com

8.

ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki in Natural White, rockcote.com.au

bendo.com.au

issue no 20

/ The Natural Artisan

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The Design / The Natural Artisan

LITTLE

BEAUTY T H E L I T T L E C O M PA N Y, BY R O N , N S W We chat to Creative Director Bobby Clark who soaked up inspiration from the relaxed vibe of balmy Byron Bay to gently inform the design and ethos of this holistic day spa.

WO R DS: N I N A D O R N // PH OTO G R A PH Y: B O B BY C L A R K PH OTO G R A PH Y

The Project / The Natural Artisan

issue no 19

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The Design / The Natural Artisan

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR

TO T R A N S L AT E TO T H E

WORK AS A

RELAXED VIBE OF BYRON?

D E R I V E I N S P I R AT I O N ?

PHOTOGRAPHER?

No, the opposite. I love Byron Bay, I fell in

The colour palette of the surroundings is

I wear a lot of different hats across the

love the moment my feet first touched the

muted, earthy and subdued. The focus

different jobs that I do day to day. I

ground. Byron has a beautiful energy, it’s

was to use as many natural textures and

predominantly work as an artist and

so different to Melbourne and the

materials as possible. In the research

photographer but also as the Creative

Cremorne space which is in a little design

phase we looked at a lot of traditional

Director of Little Company and a

hub in a pocket of Richmond. There is a

mud huts, limestone washes and raw

photography lecturer. I am also designing

real buzz in the Cremorne area with loads

plaster walls.

and styling a new health directed space in

of hidden design studios and Melbourne

Melbourne with my husband Steve Clark

creatives, it was nice to flip that on its

WHERE WAS THE

(Den Holm).

head with the Byron space and really fo-

FURNITURE SOURCED?

cus on creating a space that focused pure-

A lot of the furniture was custom built,

ly on calming energy. We really wanted to

designed by myself and Kent. The circular

focus on the five senses with Byron so that

reception seat, shelving and reception

as soon as you walk through the door the

desk were hand made by Kent’s brother

Four years ago I was working with local

main priority is to shut out the noise and

Leon who is an incredible craftsman. We

furniture designers Pop & Scott managing

focus inward, solely on yourself.

sourced furniture from local makers such

STYLIST AND

H O W D I D T H E C O L L A B O R AT I O N WITH THE LIT TLE COMPANY COME ABOUT?

their showroom and working as their

MUTED – WHERE DID YOU

as Worn Store, We are Pampa and St Barts

in-house photographer when Kent (owner

TELL US MORE ABOUT THE

and had custom tiles and side tables made

of The Little Company) came in one day.

I M P O R TA N C E O F T H E ‘ BY R O N

by my husband Den Holm.

He told me about his partner's new skin

FEELING’ IN THIS SPACE ...

clinic that was opening and I helped him

For me Byron is about connecting with the

W E LOV E T H E TO N A L M A SO N RY,

pick out some pieces for the space. Over

environment, the people around you and

R E N D E R A N D L I M E-WA S H . W H AT

the next few months he visited a few

harnessing nature and adapting a slower

times and we got on so well, always

pace for life. The energy is slow and

talking about design and what he was

peaceful. There is nothing bold or loud

I am married to a traditionally trained

planning. A few months later I decided to

about being there and I wanted to capture

stone mason, now sculptor who had a

leave Pop & Scott to work for myself. A

that throughout the space. Everything

huge impact on the project. He custom

few days later I had an email from Kent

from the taps, the walls, the paint colours,

made a lot of the key features within the

saying he would love to have me come

textures and objects were sourced locally

space which then influenced the other

work with Little Company and here I am!

with the idea of letting the space breathe

materials that were selected. Kent and I

with the environment around it.

both have very similar tastes and are

T H E O R I G I N A L S PA I S LO C AT E D IN MELBOURNE. WAS IT TRICKY

LED YOU TO CHOOSE THESE FINISHES?

drawn to natural materials and textures THE COLOUR PALET TE IS

that complement the space and the

SPA ESSENTIAL S / TH E LIT TLE COMPANY

1/ Bear Ltd Nourish Essential Daily Superpowder,

$45, bearltd.com 2/ The Body Shop Wooden Nail Brush, $9,

thebodyshop.com 3. Binchotan Charcoal Face Scrub Towel $19.95,

thelittlecompany.com.au 4/ Bear Ltd Essential Daily Face Oil, $145, bearltd.com 5/ Sanceuticals pH Perfect Body + Hand Wash $52, 1/

3/

2/

16 The Natural Artisan

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issue no 20

4/

5/

thelittlecompany.com.au

6

LOVE THIS ROCKCOTE Natural Materials are made with pure ingredients and free from synthetic nasties and toxins

The Design / The Natural Artisan

" O U R F O C U S W A S O N N AT U R A L M AT E R I A L S A N D L O C A L LY S O U R C E D P R O D U C T S . " surroundings. Byron Bay for me has a real

and use throughout the space all share

THE ARTISANS, LANDSCAPE

tropical vibe and I wanted to mimic the

the same fundamentals in supporting

AND PEOPLE DIRECTED THE

aesthetic of rural Mediterranean houses

handmade, non-toxic products.

BUILD - CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS ETHOS?

and bring in their use of raw plaster and lime washed walls.

THE CUSTOM DEN HOLM TILES

As individuals (myself, Kent and Stace) all

LOOK AMAZING IN THE SPACE .

apply this ethos to our own personal way

T H E B U I L D I N G M AT E R I A L S A R E

TELL US MORE...

of living. We believe in supporting the

S U S TA I N A B L E A N D N O N -T O X I C

My husband Steven (aka Den Holm) has

artisan, cautiously living the best we can

E N S U R I N G A N AT U R A L V I B E . H O W

an incredible mind. He works with the

and are all fiercely independent and

WAS THIS ACHIEVED?

natural structure of the stone to create

ambitious. We all share the same thoughts

Our focus was on natural materials and

something unique and modern that also

on the importance of community and

locally sourced, handmade products. We

encapsulates the beauty of tradition and

utilising personal skills and ideas.

apply the same ethos to our own homes

craftsmanship. The custom tiles are made

and always try and choose quality,

from off cuts from his sculpture studio

economical products and materials, so it

which would otherwise be discarded. As

was very important to apply the same

an artist and designer he wants to ensure

principles with Little Company. Everything

his practice leaves behind no waste and

Not a single one. The build was solely

in the space was chosen with purpose and

utilises the material in its entirety.

instinctual and created through many

intent. The brands we chose to support

18 The Natural Artisan

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issue no 20

IS IT TRUE THE WHOLE BUILD WAS COMPLETED WITHOUT ANY DRAWINGS?!

discussions and big ideas.

6

LOVE THIS Achieve a similar style with ROCKCOTE EcoStyle Low Sheen Paint to create a relaxing space

18 The Natural Artisan

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issue no 19

The Influencer / The Natural Artisan

FERTILE

EARTH

by Cap phy are terr art, and com pre use from by r awa (an beli way you but

PA M PA , E TH I C A L H OM E WA RES Formed by Carl Wilson and Victoria Aguirre, Pampa produce home-wares and artwork inspired by the stunning Argentinian landscapes of Vicky's childhood. With a strong focus on fair trade and the preservation of heritage and artisan techniques Pampa really demonstrate the strength that can be found in combining creative vision and culture.

WORDS: NINA DORN

//

PHOTOGR APHY: VICTORIA AGUIRRE

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT

artisans that live near Buenos Aires as

poverty and the building of wholly

PAMPA – WHEN DID YOU MEET

well, such as our Porteño collection. We

sustainable cultures. This rests at the

A N D H O W WA S I T S TA R T E D?

believe in ethically made and fairly traded

heart of what we aim to achieve.

We met in 2011 in the Atacama Desert in

products. The profits each artisan makes

Chile. I was travelling as a photographer

are reinvested back into their family, and

YOUR DESIGNS ARE 10 0%

for an adventure magazine from

used for day-to-day expenses such as

H A N D M A D E , N AT U R A L A N D

Argentina and Carl was doing a solo surf

buying food and clothing, paying school

S U S TA I N A B L E . C A N YO U T E L L

trip along the Pacific coast of Latin

fees, accessing medical care, and sourcing

U S A B O U T T H E I M P O R TA N C E O F

America. We met by destiny and have

new tools and materials. Earning a fair

THIS TO YOUR BUSINESS?

been together ever since. I moved to

wage has enabled our weavers to form

All our collections have a deep sense of

Australia and in 2012 Pampa started.

their own co-operatives, giving individuals

origin. We work with natural materials

During my first year in Australia, I was

the benefit of sharing materials, ideas and

from the environment of the weavers,

very homesick and didn’t know what to do

workloads. By respecting each individual

which can be plants for dying the wool to

for work. I couldn’t find the right path, but

artisan’s creativity and technique, Pampa

using local wool to weave our ponchos

I knew I had to do something creative and

helps to give communities a stronger

and scarfs etc. Using sustainable fibres for

challenging. Pampa was born in late 2013.

sense of cultural independence and pride.

all of our woven products is something we

Showing our artisans the real value of

are proud of. We are also currently

W E LOV E T H AT PA M PA A I M S

their work demonstrates to the younger

working hard on improving our packaging

TO PRESERVE ARTISAN SKILLS

generations that weaving is an honourable

and moving towards using compost and

USI NG FAI R TR ADE PR AC TICES.

and profitable vocation, helping to

bio-degradable bags. There is no point

CAN YOU TELL US MORE?

preserve this traditional art form for years

having a sustainable product if we’re

Our artisans' partners live in remote

to come. The more ongoing work we can

using plastic to ship to the clients. Except

villages throughout Argentina, and now

provide for these communities, the more

for just a few of our products everything is

since we’ve grown we work with some

we are contributing to their growth out of

100% handmade, by this we mean there

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The Influencer / The Natural Artisan

IN HER SHOES A DAY IN THE LIFE OF VICTORIA AGUIRRE 6:00am: I hit snooze and start daydreaming. Here is when the most crazy and creative ideas can come to my mind, I’m 100% a morning person, my brain is fully activated at that time.

6:30 am: Shower, get dressed, make coffee and breakfast and start scanning through messages and emails on my phone.

7:30/8am: Take Poncho (our chocolate Labrador) for a beach walk or bike ride.

9:00 am: I arrive at the studio/showroom and start working and looking at everyone’s tasks for the day.

10:00 am: Make my Mate (yerba mate tea) Argentineans' addiction! Can’t live without it. Then more emails, phone calls and stuff.

So much stuff that I sometimes can’t even are no machines involved in the process,

Both being photographers and having the

no electricity, etc. For instance the wool

ability to self-sufficiently provide quality

yarn in our rugs is hand-spun, hand-dyed

well thought out content is a big advantage.

(we use the sun to dry the yarns) and

describe or list what I do.

1:00 pm: Lunch, which I try my hardest to not eat at my desk. I often fail at this.

2:00pm I can still be on emails, shooting content for social media, our journal and

hand-loomed on wooden looms which are

HOW DO YOU SOURCE YOUR

not connected to any electricity.

SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT?

5:00pm Leave work, sometimes sneak in

Depends, on Pinterest we do have some

some Pilates or Yoga or another beach

HOW HAS SOCIAL MEDIA

boards such as Pampa Home and Pampa

walk or park walk with Poncho. I’m addicted

SHAPED PAMPA' S GROW TH AND

Loves that are images of others which are

to sunsets so I try to enjoy a few a week,

DEVELOPMENT?

aligned to our colour palette, style and

they make my soul feel grounded.

Yes it has, no doubt about it. Our beautiful

mood board. Our Instagram is almost all

amazing community has helped us so

of our own content, we divided it by the

much to be able to get to where we are

products that we sell and mix it up with

now. I think they appreciate that our

travel and makers imagery. Our Journal is

content is very much aligned to our earthy

a big part of our content creation and my

8:00pm Social Media, TV, a book every

style and raw roots. It’s genuine and shot

creative outlet, I love everything about it.

now and again.

by myself 90% of the time, which is

new products etc.

7:00pm Dinner and vino time, but in between cooking I still might be checking emails. My work and personal life is not very balanced, but it's something I am striving towards….

9:00pm Ideal bedtime. I end my day so

beautiful but at the same time low key

T O P 3 M U S T- FO L L O W

tired that I fall asleep as soon as my head

and thoughtful.

I N S TAG R A M PAG E S?

hits the pillow.

@thelocalproject YO U H AV E 97. 8 K FO L LO W E R S O N I N S TAG R A M . W H AT S E T S YOUR CONTENT APART?

22 The Natural Artisan

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@thedesignfiles and our new sister brand @tracingmaps for beautiful prints!

issue no 20

2.

"WE RESPECT EACH INDIVIDUAL A R T I S A N ’ S C R E AT I V I T Y A N D T E C H N I Q U E " Above:

Stunning homewares in the

Byron flagship store

Below:

The artisan at work

Below left: Every Pampa rug is an

individual creation, hand

picked from the community

where it was designed

and handwoven

issue no 20

/ The Natural Artisan

23

The Home / The Natural Artisan

RISING

S TA R THE HILL SIDE HOUSE , BUX TON, VIC Martin Rubenstein from Format Architects was asked to design a simple and sustainable weekend getaway - the brief was to anchor it to the landscape and create a synergy with its stunning surroundings in the Cathedral Range State Park.

WORDS: NINA DORN

// PH OTO G R A PH Y: E R N E S TO A R R I AG A DA

PLEASE TELL US A LITTLE

new building to protect and enhance this

ABOUT THE PROJECT BRIEF?

natural landscape. The house is designed

The requirement was to create a weekend

as a single level in an elevated position

getaway that’s also suitable as a residence.

with the back slightly cut into the hill.

It should respond to the site, be simple

This allows the front of the house to sit

to construct, be inexpensive to build and

on grade providing unfettered access

efficient to run.

outside and a strong visual connection to the land from inside. The budget was

WHERE IS THE PROPERTY AND

tight so the house is relatively compact, at

HOW DOES IT RESPOND TO THE

just under 180m2 it includes an open plan

LOCAL SURROUNDINGS?

living/dining/kitchen space, 3 bedrooms,

The 20 hectare property is located near

2 bathrooms, laundry and storage, but the

the Cathedral Range State Park just

spatial arrangement and constant visual

outside Buxton, Victoria. The landscape

connection to the outside make the house

and topography are diverse and it includes

feel much bigger.

ridge-lines, valleys with ephemeral water courses, remnant clusters of native vegetation and cleared grazing land.

ROCKCOTE MARRAKESH WAS U S E D T H R O U G H O U T. W H AT D R AW S YO U TO T H E S E N AT U R A L

W H AT W E R E T H E S P EC I F I C

FINISHES AND WHY?

NEEDS PROVIDED FOR THE

The house features internal and external

P EO P L E T H AT O W N T H E H O M E ?

natural lime hard plaster walls with a

The site is unique and beautiful and it

ROCKCOTE Marrakesh rendered finish

was important to site and design the

to create a unique, smooth and slightly

issue no 20

/ The Natural Artisan

25

The Home / The Natural Artisan

MEET THE ARCHITECT M A RT I N R U B E N S T E I N // F O R M AT A R C H I T EC T S What is your studio ethos?

J‘ ust do it’ – is that already taken?

How is your studio structured?

Our studio culture is informal, open and welcoming and we currently have staff gender parity which is good.

How important is sustainability in the materials specified and are clients asking for them?

It’s important. A client recently suggested we use rammed earth for their new house which will be our first rammed earth project. Our ambition is to try to specify more materials that are capable of being reused and recycled and encourage clients to choose durable, low maintenance and low environmental impact materials.

What are the daily essentials you can’t live without for a well-designed life?

I recently bought a new pen - it's comfortable to hold and it draws smooth, forgiving lines - great for sketching!

What are you working on now?

We have diverse residential projects on the go at different stages including apartments and new private houses in the city, the bush and on the coast.

How do you define great design?

Positive enhancement of life

26 The Natural Artisan

/

issue no 20

6

LOVE THIS ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White helps create a relaxing space

" R O C K C O T E M A R R A K E S H C R E AT E D A U N I Q U E A N D S L I G H T LY I M P E R F E C T P AT I N A T H AT SUITS THE SIMPLICITY OF THE DESIGN" imperfect patina that suits the

WHICH DESIGN ELEMENTS

order to release new potential but to name

simplicity of the house design and reflects

SUPPORT SIMPLE LIVING?

a few fundamentals; good solar orienta-

the beauty of the natural landscape. When

The entire design revolves around the idea

tion is important, access to natural light.

the light hits the wall surface it reflects to

of simple living. We enjoyed integrating

I also think that an efficient floor plan is

convey an intense tactile quality.

some informal ideas for example the

really important too, there is a tendency

HOW DOES THE DESIGN AND FUNCTIONALITY OF THIS HOME ENHANCE QUALITY OF LIFE?

utilitarian kitchen is designed like a tra-

for new houses to be a bit bloated and I

ditional farmhouse kitchen where family

always try to encourage clients to ques-

activity and kitchen work are integrated in

tion the amount of space they really need.

one big room with a huge dining table in

Every room has a view out into the

the middle. This open spatial arrangement

W H AT WA S YO U R M AT E R I A L

landscape. There are spaces designed for

is followed through in the detailing where

S T R AT EGY ?

late evening sun, or sunny spots in the

open and continuous cantilevered wall

There’s an absence of minor material and

morning so that you can track the light

shelves allow a single wall finish to flow

extraneous detail hopefully lending a

throughout the day. Winter sun

uninterrupted throughout the entire living

sense of calm and wellbeing to the house.

penetration is achieved by facing a large

space. Spatial continuity and continuity

open plan glass living, dining and kitchen

of surface is a key design feature of this

area to the north, east and west, this area

house as it lends a quiet unity and calm of

is open to the views and centred spatially

the whole.

W H AT OT H E R M AT E R I A L S W E R E USED IN THIS HOME? Naturally sealed timber windows and joinery including sustainably sourced ply-

around a three-sided glass firebox.

Summer sun is controlled by a massive

W H AT D O YO U C O N S I D E R

wood ceiling panels, exposed & laminated

overhanging roof comprising a grid of

I M P O R TA N T I N C R E AT I N G A

timber beams, cast on site concrete floors

secretly joined timber roof beams. The

FUNCTIONAL HOME?

with locally sourced river rock aggregate

roof’s presence is felt throughout the

There should be no rules and ideally

and sand.

house to enhance the sense of shelter.

architects should challenge conformity in

28 The Natural Artisan

/

issue no 20

1.

The Home / The Natural Artisan

6 ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White.

2.

Natural, graceful and versatile, Marrakesh is a traditional lime plaster that allows the artisan to create a wide range of decorative and functional finishes. Drawing on traditional Tadelakt and Moroccan plaster finishes, Marrakesh delivers a smooth, lustrous look with an unrivalled soft, elegant appearance for decorative finishes.

5.

3.

5.

5.

4.

6.

7.

6.

8.

4.

THIS PAGE 1.

Slow: Live Life Simply by Brooke McAlary,

5.

2.

Shaker Log Burning Stove by Skantherm,

6.

Kumo Floor Rug, $189, thedesignedit.com.au

4.

Pan Brush by Iris Hantverk, $39, bokettoliving.com.au

Button Easy Chair by Swedese, $3500, fredinternational.com.au

$6,900, skantherm.com.au 3.

IN BED Ylang Ylang & Sandalwood Laundry Liquid, $30, inbedstore.com

$32.99, booktopia.com.au

7.

Kyoto XL Bean Bag - 'Indoor X Out' Collection in Honey, $995, lujo.com.au

8.

ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White, rockcote.com.au

issue no 20

/ The Natural Artisan

29

The Artisan / The Natural Artisan

ARTISAN

FINISH ANTHONY WAKEFIELD, ROCKCOTE ARTISAN For any artisan there’s an acknowledgment of the craft as something much more than a trade - there is an intimate relationship between them, the products and the tools used to create unique and beautiful finishes. We chat to ROCKCOTE Artisan Anthony Wakefield whose skillful wall applications grace interiors both residential and commercial.

WORDS: NINA DORN

// P H OTO G R A P H Y: A L I C I A TAY LO R

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A

DOES WORKING WITH ROCKCOTE

Marrakesh and love it. It’s taken some

ROCKCOTE ARTISAN?

N AT U R A L M AT E R I A L S B R I N G A

time but I have certainly mastered the

I have been a ROCKCOTE Artisan for 2 ½ years now.

SENSE OF WELLBEING?

finish along with my team and have full

Yes, I believe it does exactly that. When I

understanding and an appreciation for

win a natural material job, it brings a

this awesome lime render.

W H AT D I D T H E A R T I SA N

smile to everyone’s face on my team,

T R A I N I N G I N VO LV E ?

including my own. There really is nothing

YO U R W O R K H A S F E AT U R E D

To become an Artisan, I attended a two

like working with natural materials. There

IN SOME AMAZING PROJECTS,

day course on the Central Coast. Then to

are so many decorative finishes out there

W H I C H H AV E B E E N T H E S TA N D

become a Master Artisan, I had to register

but how many of them are natural? This

OUTS FOR YOU?

over 700 m2 of completed works and get

is exactly why I believe ROCKCOTE is the

The stand out for me among the many

the jobs signed off. This of course could

leading brand in Australian sourced

projects I’ve completed, has to be 123 Pitt

only be achieved out on site.

Natural Materials.

Street in Sydney. Not only because of the

H A D YO U A LWAYS B E E N

W H AT A R E YO U R FAVO U R I T E

also the job I completed before I got

INTERESTED IN LEARNING A

M AT E R I A L S TO W O R K W I T H ?

married. So for me it was and always will

SKILLED TRADE?

This is definitely a tricky question as I love

be a special and memorable project. To

Growing up I never fancied or saw myself

them all! However, I would have to say the

add to this list I would also say a project

in a suit working in an office. So I guess

stand out for me is ROCKCOTE

we did in Balgowlah, Sydney. We did a

the answer is yes. I love being on site and

Otsumigaki and Marrakesh. Otsumigaki

custom-made range hood, which I believe

having that whole site banter that goes

feels fantastic to apply and the results are

is the only one of its kind in Australia. We

with the territory. There is also a huge

stunning. Then throw in the health

also featured ROCKCOTE Marrakesh

amount of satisfaction seeing the look on

benefits of having a clay finish in a space.

arches in the kitchen and library, so

your client's face when you create

It’s hard not to put this product at the top

coupled with the amazing location it was

something beautiful for them.

of the food chain. I also do a lot of

a fantastic project to be involved in.

magnitude and sheer size of the job, it was

30 The Natural Artisan

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issue no 20

" R O C K C O T E O T S U M I G A K I F E E L S F A N TA S T I C T O A P P LY A N D T H E R E S U LT S A R E S T U N N I N G "

6

issue no 20

LOVE THIS Anthony's work at 123 Pitt Street using ROCKCOTE Otsumigaki in Natural White

/ The Natural Artisan

31

To learn more about the ROCKCOTE product range or find your nearest Australian or New Zealand Distributor contact: phone: email:

1300 736 668

enquiries@rockcote.com.au www.rockcote.com.au