Scanlan Theodore Capitol Grand by Studio McQualter

An Australian fashion stalwart, Scanlan Theodore continues to forge its own path with its distinctive take on contemporary, timeless pieces that celebrate individuality. It’s an approach complemented by the Melbourne-based brand’s boutiques from the very start.

Back in 1987, founders Fiona Scanlan and Gary Theodore tapped close friend and interior designer Don McQualter of Studio McQualter to conjure the original flagship boutique on Chapel Street in South Yarra. Nearly four decades on, the latest addition to the independent fashion house’s luxury retail lineup lies in the heart of South Yarra at the Capitol Grand apartment building.

The clean, modern silhouettes of ready-to-wear wardrobe staples with luxurious attention to detail is emulated in the sophisticated fit-out of the retail space and elevated atmosphere of the experience.

Occupying a ground-level space that sinuously curves around a corner perimeter, this multi-level boutique offers 464 square metres, the largest boutique in the Scanlan Theodore portfolio that includes outposts across Australia and the United States. The clean, modern silhouettes of ready-to-wear wardrobe staples with luxurious attention to detail is emulated in the sophisticated fit-out of the retail space and elevated atmosphere of the experience.

A pair of metal and glass vestibules with Italian marble signage and brass handles marks the entry thresholds. Windows are lined with silver Roman travertine, while cream metal louvres with multidimensional aluminium display boxes – a first for any Scanlan Theodore retail space – lend an artful dynamism designed for revelatory moments of visual intrigue.

Clean-lined seating and bespoke aluminium lighting are teamed with custom Carrara marble shelving, suspended and arched clothing rails, open storage vignettes, expanses of mirror and a leather-clad counter.

There are clear influences of mid-century Italian design throughout the space, which wouldn’t look out of place if situated in the heart of Milan. Square-tiled columns sit alongside high-gloss reflective finishes in soft neutral tones that extend to some ceiling surfaces, reclaimed tallowwood panelled ceilings and polished terrazzo floors with a bespoke inlay pattern.

Clean-lined seating and bespoke aluminium lighting are teamed with custom Carrara marble shelving, suspended and arched clothing rails, open storage vignettes, expanses of mirror and a leather-clad counter. Statement occasional chairs, shapely tables and neat sideboards designed by mid-century design icons such as Gae Aulenti, Osvaldo Borsani and Ettore Sottsass come together with quiet yet striking confidence, again mirroring Scanlan Theodore’s own philosophy. A streamlined, waxed, stainless-steel and brass inlay staircase snakes its way to the personal styling lounge for a premium, intuitive shopping experience.

A curation of abstract works from Australian artists marks the walls, a nod to the local fashion house’s affinity for the arts and the creative community.

Such considered elements and the instinctual weaving of them together is a signature of both founder Gary Theodore and Studio McQualter in this formidable design partnership. A curation of abstract works from Australian artists marks the walls, a nod to the local fashion house’s affinity for the arts and the creative community. Light play is crucial to the understated elegance of the space, with a variety of illumination options such as natural light controlled via soft grey Venetian blinds as well as an eclectic assortment of table, floor and sconce lamps.

Scanlan Theodore Capitol Grand is the result of a creative vision to house the complete collection of the brand’s coveted ready-to-wear and accessory offering. Sitting alongside design hallmarks like contemporary art and custom and preloved furniture, the setting makes for an expressive outcome.

Interior design by Studio McQualter.