Three Decades of Australian Contemporary Design—Tait Celebrates 30 Years

Whether referring to design aesthetic, product manufacturing or sustainable business practice, outdoor furniture company Tait’s commitment to longevity has seen the brand thrive. Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, Tait reflects on an unparalleled history of design advocacy, high-performance local manufacturing and quality craftsmanship.

Established in 1992 by husband-and-wife duo Gordon and Susan Tait, the brand was founded at a time when the Australian market lacked well-made outdoor products reflective of the country’s enviable outdoor lifestyle. From a small factory in Melbourne, Gordon – a sheet-metal craftsman by trade – and Susan – a practicing creative textile designer – began exploring new ideas and formulating innovative concepts to change the face of outdoor furniture design in Australia.

From the very beginning, the Tait design philosophy has been based on a strong manufacturing heritage, with an inherent focus on quality and craftmanship.

Today, Tait is still known for the principles upon which it was founded, consistently reaffirming its integral commitment to high-quality design and manufacturing while also placing an emphasis on the continuing high performance of furniture over time – a mantra that has driven the brand to thrive in some of the harshest environmental conditions.

Today, Tait is still known for the principles upon which it was founded, consistently reaffirming its integral commitment to high-quality design and manufacturing while also placing an emphasis on the continuing high performance of furniture over time – a mantra that has driven the brand to thrive in some of the harshest environmental conditions. Demonstrating longevity through quality in all facets of the business, Tait proudly offsets over 25 tonnes of carbon emissions per year, which roughly equates to the protection of over 631 trees.

“Understanding who, where and how our products are made, the ethical and environmental impacts involved and how raw materials are sourced is part of a growing consciousness toward responsible consumerism,” explains Gordon. “We are focused on continually improving our sustainability outcomes, offering transparency across our operations while producing beautiful, high-performing, authentic design, made to last.” Determined to build for a better future, while reflecting on the lessons learned from 30 years of design excellence, Tait remains a brand committed to the protection, promotion and creation of quality local design.