Monday, May 11, 2015

A Valentino Collaborator’s Australian Pad By: Garrett Fleming

A Valentino Collaborator’s Australian Pad

To attend a fashion show with its pomp, glitz and laissez-faire formality is exciting in and of itself. To watch an entire collection hit the runway that’s inspired by your work, however, is a rush I won’t even attempt to describe. I first came across Esther Stewart when the 26-year-old’s bold, geometric designs graced the Parisian runway on nearly every look from Valentino’s Autumn 2015-2016 menswear collection. Her unique mixture of color immediately drew me to her work, and I quickly became what my 17-year-old brother would call “a fanboy.” Naturally, I was ecstatic when Esther agreed to give us a peek inside the Australian home and studio she shares with her partner Oscar Perry.

The couple met in Melbourne, but after studying and living in the city for eight years, they were ready to move to a more comfortable space that would allow for more flexibility with their craft. The decision was made: a small parcel of land in Daylesford, where Esther grew up, would serve as the artists’ studio while home base would remain in Melbourne. That didn’t last long, as the builders and Esther quickly realized the untapped potential of a hay barn nearby. Six months later, Esther and Oscar had turned the barn into a new home to match their new studio space. Esther’s high school art teacher and builder was a welcome help, allowing exactly zero setbacks along the road to renovation. From installing customized built-in cabinetry to incorporating secondhand finds, the team dynamic could not have been more pleasant. “In fact, I enjoyed it so much I am already planning what my next project could be,” Esther raves. “Our plan was to have a large, functioning studio with a small, compact house that had plenty of storage and natural light. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome.” With 10 acres of inspiration, a swimming dam nearby, and what’s soon to be a flourishing garden, I believe that from such a beautiful space only beautiful art can arise. I certainly cannot wait to see what’s next. Enjoy! —Garrett

Photography by Lauren Bamford










via Design*Sponge http://ift.tt/1zSVfxf From Garrett Fleming

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