HAT WERE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SPACE AND WHAT APPEALED TO YOU ABOUT THE SITE? It was the old Acne Studios store so the interiors had a more minimalistic, futuristic look than what we were going for. The space was lovely but we wanted to inject more personality, something world class that spoke to the other We had great bones to work with so the requirements involved lightening the space and infusing it with our own aesthetic. It’s housed in a Victorian building with an internal garden right in the heart of High Street, Armadale. I grabbed it as soon as it became available. WHAT WAS THE DESIGN CONCEPT? For Grace Brighton we drew inspiration from Milan, but for Grace, High Street, Armadale, we took cues from Paris. Ilana wanted the stores to evoke the capital cities she sources from and was really clear about the direction from the get-go. Given that there are multiple fashion seasons a year and stock is constantly changing, it was important that it be a timeless backdrop for everything. We re-did the lighting, added crown mouldings, built custom joinery, added loose furniture and installed plush purple carpet in the changing rooms. I never tire of Parisian beauty. The checkerboard floors with contrasting marble datum line and the mix of brass, mirror and wood came from images that inspired both of us. However, it was still important that the store responded to its own site. HOW DOES THE SPACE FUNCTION FOR RETAIL? The check-out process needed to be easy and the storage clean so we retained the oversized brass patinated counter left by the previous tenants. The bespoke steel banquette has been upholstered in an incredible jacquard with magical embroidered tigers – it’s a great pitstop for customers to rest their feet and give their fashion feedback. The flow and layout is enticing but isn’t too overwhelming. It’s not just somewhere to try on clothes – it’s a fun and memorable experience. Practicality was important – everything from maximising the sense of natural light to the luxurious fitting rooms and creating a sense of discovery as you travel through. It has an elevated sense of design with luxury labels but is also warm and welcoming. FAVOURITE DESIGN DETAILS? The Rosso Francia marble skirting is a nod to Parisian design which, along with the high ceilings, feels very regal. We were excited to create a grand entryway and there’s nothing better or more dramatic than a checkered floor – it’s typically French and instantly transformed the interiors. The Jonny Niesche artwork is a personal piece from home but it looks so perfect behind the counter. The number of customers asking to buy it is crazy – needless to say, it’s not for sale! TOP PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS? Golden Goose’s ‘Running Dad’ sneaker. It’s great with suit pants for an elevated, off-duty look. We’ve just welcomed brand Blazé Milano into our stable and I’m obsessed! The hero in their collection is the blazer cut from divine Italian fabrics in impossibly chic shapes with internal pockets so you can go hands free.
