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70 Years of Style – Stylecraft’s 70th Anniversary
Much like the timeless furniture and lighting pieces for which Stylecraft has become known, the company’s longevity can be attributed to an inherent focus on quality, innovation and truly beautiful design. A pillar of the Australian design industry for 70 years, the Stylecraft story is an example of design’s ability to transcend generations.
Initially founded in Melbourne, Stylecraft has since expanded its presence to encompass eight showrooms across Australia, along with one located in Singapore. “My earliest memory of Stylecraft is of the Sydney and Melbourne showrooms,” says Stylecraft Managing Director Anthony Collins. “Over the years we have evolved from 20 staff to 80, opening showrooms in Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Perth and Singapore. I will al-ways cherish my memories of the Stylecraft team, the energy, the pink dot, the A&D relationships and, of course, the parties.”
Stylecraft’s diverse product range and eclectic mix of brand partnerships are a true reflection of 70 years of experience in the Australian market, catering for a wide spectrum of environments including commercial, educational, hospitality and residential spaces. “The vast majority of our partnerships have been for significant periods of time, both locally and internationally,” explains Anthony. “One of Stylecraft’s great attributes is consistency. Consistency of brands and relationships is at the core of this.”
With a diverse portfolio of furniture and lighting brands, including exclusive partnerships with the likes of Arper, Tacchini, Verzelloni and Akaba, Stylecraft has spent the past 70 years bringing the very best in international design to the Australian market. However, it is Stylecraft’s unwavering support of the Australian design industry that truly sets the company apart. “Our work with local designers and manufacturers is one of the most important contributing factors to Stylecraft’s success over the years,” says Anthony. “We are passionate about good design, and we are an Australian company. To work with Australian designers and manufacturers and to see their designs succeed at scale, in both residential and commercial settings, is very satisfying.”
One such local designer is Ross Gardam, who has been working with Stylecraft since 2011, developing a body of work that reflects the true power of local design collaboration. “We have been working together for over a decade now, which represents the depth of relationship between the brands,” says Ross. “Stylecraft is all about great people and connections, and this is what I think of most when reminiscing over the past decade. Stylecraft’s support of locally made products and commitment to sustainable process aligns perfectly with my own practice, which is ever so important.”
Ross’s sentiments are shared by another Australian designer, Helen Kontouris of furniture company Len. “In the sphere, collab-oration and understanding are paramount,” says Helen. “Stylecraft, over the past decade, has been the epitome of refined partnership for our brand, Len. Their unwavering commitment to authenticity resonates deeply with us.” Continuing in the spirit of local collaboration, Helen goes on to say that “Stylecraft’s dedication transcends beyond mere representation. Their passion for maintaining the highest quality, nurturing talent and bringing innovation is incredible. In a world where so much is fleeting, their unwavering focus on people and projects they genuinely believe in is a testament to their character.”
At a time when loyalty and longevity are on the wane, 70 years of business is not a feat to be taken for granted. Beyond the brands, products, showrooms, projects and relationships, itis ultimately the people of Stylecraft that have helped drive the company to this milestone. Reflecting on this anniversary, Anthony looks to the future while contemplating the past. “Our love for the design industry and good de-sign is eternal,” he says. “We value our people and our partnerships above all else, and by continuing to focus on this, I feel confident that the best is yet to come.”
