Friday, April 29, 2016

LaBelle Designs Tarragindi


I often mention serendipity, but in this case visiting LaBelle Designs in Pring St Tarragindi was the destination for me. It's owned by Nicki Christian, whom I know from way back. Nicki is a very talented fashion designer as well as homewares manufacturer. 


Following her dreams she has opened a very cute store selling both her passions. She sources from international suppliers as well as individual bespoke local crafts people. Her product range is interesting, classical as well as quirky.


Nicki's extensive experience in the rag trade ensures an honest opinion but also expert advice with the clothing she sells. Not to mention she's always great for a chin wag in general.


She has recently added to her retail family and opened a coffee shop in the tenancy next door- with the cute name "Gindi". It's proven a hit with the local mums at school run time.


The shaded table area allows customers to watch the comings and goings along the beautiful leopard tree lined street.


Nicki's clever eye for detail shows inside with the bold wall paper and antique framed collage prints.

Definitely worth making this destination your serendipity!






Sunday, April 3, 2016

All that glitters...


You may remember this sketch from a few months ago. The newly relocated Xennox Diamonds in Brisbane's Queen St mall is nearing completion. The store has been trading at the new location for a few weeks now with some remaining items still to be installed by the cabinetmaker. 


The brief for the store called for increased display capacity and an updated look of elegance, as well as specialty work areas. 


The store's main retail area is a large central counter and has integrated stock keeping and security methods in keeping with high quality jewellery fitouts. 


When designing this store we used fabric covered wall panels, deep buttoned velvet upholstery and luxurious curtains to create a look of opulence.


The client asked for a special area for customer client consultations to discuss bespoke jewellery design. We created a "Design Pod" to give this privacy and seclusion.


The store also features a Champagne bar, a workshop viewing window and specially designated collection areas and other consultation zones.


The new Xennox is located on level 2 of 141 Queen St Brisbane.