Rockpool is the latest collection from Melbourne-based furniture design studio Tait in collaboration with award-winning designer Adam Goodrum. Inspired by coastal landscapes, it brings together durability, comfort and elegance in a compact outdoor range designed for smaller living spaces.
Responding to the rise of medium- to high-density housing, the Rockpool collection addresses the challenge of fitting high-quality, durable furniture into increasingly smaller spaces. “There’s a growing need for more efficient and space-saving designs,” says director, Gordon Tait, who founded the studio alongside his wife Susan, creative director in 1992. In response, Rockpool’s armchairs and sofas are up to 35 per cent smaller than previous Tait collections, without compromising comfort or style.
Rockpool includes an armchair and two- and three-seater sofas in both straight and curved variations, which are available in two seat heights. Designed to withstand Australia’s challenging climate, they are perfect for smaller balconies, courtyards and verandahs, while also sitting effortlessly in interior and commercial spaces.
Rockpool maintains a playful and elegant presence through its curved forms and considered rope detailing. “There is a softness to the forms of naturally weathered rock pools,” says Goodrum of his inspiration for the collection. “The way water carves smooth, undulating shapes into stone feels welcoming and timeless.” His initial sketches of fluid, sculptural shapes evolved into a series of interconnected curves, with an emphasis on negative space to add a sense of airiness into the collection.
Made with exceptional metal crafting expertise, Rockpool’s frame is developed on a tube bending machine, with skillful welds completing the form. “The seat depths and angles were carefully tested to allow for a relaxed yet upright posture, making the pieces suitable for both lounging and social settings,” says Goodrum. “The way the back cushion integrates into the frame not only enhances the aesthetic but also improves lumbar support.”
Upholstered in a range of fabrics inspired by leafy greens, volcanic rusts, fresh pastels and the South Pacific’s deep blues, the pieces feature a subtle two-tone weave with stitched seams that echo the collection’s organic shapes and gives the fabric a jewel-like richness and depth. Optional armrests in sustainable spotted gum are available for additional grip and comfort.
True to Tait’s commitment to sustainability, Rockpool is designed for longevity and renewal. “Like all Tait collections, Rockpool is made in Australia from premium materials and designed for refurbishment,” says Goodrum. The powder-coated aluminium frame can be easily refreshed and refinished in a range of 22 natural hues, including pale eucalypt, paperbark and burgundy clay.
With thirty years of designing and making experience, Tait’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship can be seen in every piece. With Rockpool, the studio continues its legacy of designing outdoor furniture that is not only robust and locally made, but also reflects a considered and conscious way of living.
