a little about me

My introduction to design began when my Mum, Gaynor, created the well known antiques store Shades of Pale, which is now run by talented sister and best friend, Bella. Throughout my childhood, we were often set to work on weekends and during the holidays hand painting furniture in the garden or working in the shop, which as young girls was not always fun when our friends were hanging at the beach! What we didn’t know at the time is just how much this would shape our future and how our Mum’s creativity would be the basis of our education in interiors and antiques - it became the foundation of which we would grow and develop our own style today.

After school I trained as an Interior Designer before working for design & architecture studios in both Sydney and the UK. It was during my time living in London that I would spend my weekends exploring antique shops in countryside villages and filling the boot of my hire car with pieces I found at markets. Over the years I became truly immersed in the design culture of the UK, its buildings, the history, the interiors, and of course the antiques. I fell head over heels for the English approach to decorating - effortless, relaxed and an emphasis on true comfort… dogs on the sofas, pictures hung a little wobbly and rooms layered with colour and texture. These were the spaces I wanted to spend the most time in.

After 4 years overseas I returned to Sydney to embark on my design journey back on home soil. I found the transition challenging, and struggled to marry together the two design worlds that I loved so much. Our homes, way of living and even weather here in Australia is very different to what I had grown to love so much in the UK. What I found is that I began to see colour and pieces in a new way. I leant in to my love of that classic English style, and layered it with the beauty of the Australian landscape and relaxed aesthetic, and before I knew it, I was establishing my style here and I was hooked!

It was during the renovation of my own home I noticed how difficult it could be to find those unique decorating pieces - a sweet bedside lamp or a mirror for over a mantle. Interesting artworks or soft furnishings to add the final touches to a room. This, coupled with my passion for design and antiques led me to create an online store where you can shop curated and bespoke design items for your home. This was something that as a designer is invaluable, and nothing brings me more joy than sourcing and making beautiful pieces. Everything I purchase or make is something that I would include in my own home, and to see them make their way into yours is a dream come true!

Liv x