Project Feature

We have long admired the work of interior designer Georgina Jeffries, whose portfolio exudes timeless elegance and functional beauty. Based in coastal Victoria, Georgina has an innate ability to balance colour and texture harmoniously, eschewing trends in favour of enduring style.     With this emphasis on craftsmanship and designing rich, tactile and nurturing spaces, we are delighted that Georgina has chosen to feature pieces from our pure linen range in a number of her projects, with our signature muted hues and sumptuous textural appeal complementing the designer’s thoughtfully curated interiors.     Throughout the elegant and stately Brae House, a 1920s Toorak residence, Georgina has achieved a feeling of contemporary calm through her expert use of light and colour, with a palette of muted, moody blues creating cohesion from one room to the next. In the bedroom, our Flocca Linen Duvet Cover and pillowcases in Roy, a dusty cornflower hue, are layered over sheets and pillowcases in our mid-grey tone Tempest for beautiful tactile appeal, evoking classic charm and modern sensibilities.     Featuring: Flocca Linen Duvet in Roy, Sheets in Tempest and Flocca Linen Pillowcases in Roy and Tempest. Ocean House, located on Victoria’s Surf Coast, is imbued with similar soothing qualities through Georgina’s use of understated tones and natural materials, reflecting the serenity of its surrounding landscape. Accents of eucalyptus, silvery light and a briny seascape are reflected in the washed-out palette, with our Flocca Linen Duvet Cover in our classic taupe hue Cep, paired with pillowcases in Petra and Brun, blending seamlessly into the home’s evocative, nature-inspired aesthetic.    Featuring: Flocca Linen Duvet cover in Cep and Flocca Linen Pillowcases in Petra and Brun. In Melbourne’s east, Georgina’s Park House project marries heritage and contemporary elements, with refreshing use of colour and tactility throughout the Edwardian home. Set amid lush gardens, the interior features greens, blues and pinks along with high quality finishes to create spaces that are both moody and playful. In the bedroom, the rich, boxed pattern of our Flocca Linen Blanket in Roy adds sumptuous texture to a cool, blue palette that is gently warmed by timber parquetry and rust-hued accents.    Featuring: Flocca Linen Blanket in Roy.   For more information on Georgina Jeffries, visit Georgina Jeffries.   

Ancient and innate used for centuries in architecture, marble undoubtedly represents a token of wealth and grandeur. Cut and honed, it is still regarded as a very desirable material in modern design. This age, with modern export capacities, the options of unique colours and veins from all over the world are at our finger tips, allowing global designers to push the boundaries on traditional marble uses and styles past just bathrooms and kitchens. Even so, while this amazing material is durable, multipurpose and creates exceptional visions of work, the negatives are that it can have a cold, hard and sometimes ridged aesthetic. Without complementary partner finishes and styling, it can lack warmth in a residential setting.   To outweigh the negatives, designers source warm and reflective lighting and an engrossing elements of texture such as European linen.    European linen has been handcrafted through the ages offering an unsurpassed relaxed textural appeal. We feature to you, the perfect juxtaposition between both elements. Our revered Australian design firms are showcasing the the opportunity to soften a space with pure linen bath waffle whilst maintaining the integrity of the room.   Pure linen is not only a style to covet, it is also a respectful nod to one of the oldest architectural materials by being an ancient material itself; with production technique hardly altered for hundreds of years. Enhance your bathroom with our pure waffle bath towels, available in four sizes and a range of muted, earthy and luxurious tones.   Photo credit: Flack Studios (Image 1 and 4)The Local Project (Image 2)Est Living (Image 3)

We are pleased to release the final hue to our 2020 palette additions as we welcome Petra. Not a white nor a cream, Petra summons the delicate detail of a very pale stone. Petra makes its debut as a core colour way within our collection. The perfect hue when one does not want to fuss over keeping whites white.Petra is designed to create a soothing and grounded aesthetic. Partner it with our colour ways of Ayrton and Sable to imbue a sense of cool and calm. Alternatively bring to life a contemporary palette by combining with our new tones Rok and Kali. To elevate your interior bedroom style, incorporate timber finishes and whitewash walls. There are many different shades of white, and establishing a monochromatic or neutral interior style is not always easy. We recommend doing your research, trawl Pinterest for styling ideas and your favourite interiors magazine, such as Real Living for global trends. Petra - now available within our pure linen bedding, living accessories and table linen collection. Book your complementary design consultation with us. We will provide colour selection and styling advice for any space of the home.

The autumn shift ushers us into a season brimming with nature, melancholy and a calmness we’ve been craving. Whilst the temperature may begin to drop, we may find warmth and solace in the simplicity of natural, trans-seasonal fibres and quality craftsmanship in the pieces that we adorn our home with. This year we will relish in the composure of natural hues of grey, white, blonde and sage. Whilst subtle to show, they are rich in their application, a juxtaposition of stillness and depth.     Interiors trends sees provincial back in, but not in a traditional sense. Think paired back – a rural adaptation of classic design using hardy, textural and rustic materials and earthy colours. Venetian plaster, French wash, striped back floorboards and stone are complemented by natural fibres of linen and wool.     Furthermore, a strong emphasis on artesian craftsmanship. On trend and here to stay is the importance of slow movement. This translates to investment pieces purchased with intent. Quality design and sustainable workmanship is a non negotiable.     Create your autumn style with our pure linen palette of Sable, Nox, Cep, Argent, Tempest and Ayrton across Linen Bedding and Linen Accessories.     Perfect for the seasonIntroduce our favourite layering pieces from our collection: Alpaca Linen Throw - TempestCrush Pure Linen Throw - ArmeeFlocca Linen Cotton Blend Blanket - AyrtonCrush Merino Wool Blanket – Nox Photo Credit:Elle Decoration - Honfleur, Normandy. Photography Gaelle le BoulicatVogue Living - Axel VervoortEst Living - Audo residence Copenhagen by Norm Architects

We are always delighted and intrigued by the beautiful spaces that our pure linen collection goes to feature in. So much so that we have decided to bring you style and inspiration from those that we consider to be our Style Sirens.This week we find ourselves again in a playground for the humble…as well as the rich and famous; Byron Bay. Somewhere in the middle of the contrast we have been caught in the luxurious charm of a quintessential Australian beach side guest house, 28 Degrees.   This family run guest house oozes a bare foot repose, with its classic timber panelling, and lush tropical gardens. No comfort has been spared in this fresh white walled wonderland of luxury accommodation. Boasting a somewhat understated approach to styling, yet uncompromised attention provided to the details of each room.     Known for its eco-conscious attitude, there are considerations such as low toxic paints, recycled timber floorboards, cleverly positioned windows for air circulation and the family even donate unused toiletries and food to local charities.     Rooms within the guest house are adorned with Hale Mercantile Co. pure European linen in playful yet romantic tones of Floss and Fog. Each bed framed by our versatile Flocca linen slip bedhead, the Flocca edging is a delicate contribution to the simple luxury of each room.     You won’t find tightly tucked sheets and piles of cushions to navigate. On the contrary, scrumptious relaxed layers of breathable linen and the comfort of the generous Flocca body cushion is enough to dial down to the beach excitement and turn your attention to a good book. The inclusion of the Kristine range of bed linen adds just the right balance between beach house and a hint of old world romance. Our Pastel hues of Floss, Fog and Sable are grounded with darker hues in Tempest and Nox encapsulating the tranquility associated with the beautiful accommodation and the town it is situated in.          

We are always delighted and intrigued by the beautiful spaces that our pure linen collection goes to feature in. So much so that we have decided to bring you style and inspiration from those that we consider to be our Style Sirens. This week we nestle into The Repose, a historic cottage escape the rural NSW town of Dubbo by Saddler and Co's Jemima Alridge. Originally a humble worker’s cottage built in 1904, Jemima sought to weave elements of modern style side by side with heritage inspiration in the meticulous renovation. The result is a thoughtful space that exudes quintessential Australian charm and invites a sense of connection and a place to rest your senses.     With a nod to the European heritage that shapes the country, the original features of the cottage have been preserved and complemented with the renovation. The high timber ceilings and original timber flooring have been rejuvenated with a simple white lime finish. Artisan elements such as handcrafted tiles, antiques and brass and the inclusion of pure European bed linen and accessories have shaped a space that welcomes connection, rest and comfort.     Subtle links of the past and the environment intertwine through each room. Hale Mercantile Co. linen features in a palette of Russo, Moro and Sable to draw reference to the dusty plains and red soils of the area.     The inclusion of the Kristine range of bed linen encapsulates the essence of the building and it's location - rustic, romantic and a place with the heart of the Australian hospitality.     Thank you to Jemima Aldridge, for bookings please visit The ReposePhoto credit: Abbie Melle 

Style Sirens – The Range, Byron Bay We are always delighted and intrigued by the beautiful spaces that our purelinen collection goes to feature in. So much so that we have decided tobring you style and inspiration from those that we consider to be ourStyle Sirens.This week we are welcomed into ‘The Range’, a sprawling property ofTom and Emma Lane nestled into the picturesque Bryon Bay hinterland.   The family’s consideration of sustainability and the environment ishonoured throughout the expansive home, in both architecture and design.With a strong influence of European finishing and styling, you would beforgiven to think that you had been transported to a farm house in the Mediterranean.    The Range sits on 120 acres and located at a vantage point to the rollinghillside and beyond to the sea. The principles of appreciating the outsideenvironment is evident in the raw and organic fittings, including originaltimber beams, muted terracotta tiles and a natural palette in pure linen bedding.     Merging the exterior environment with interior finishes is a style werevere at Hale Mercantile Co. Emulating the rolling, dusty countryside,selecting pure linen bedding in warmer tones of Brun (Toffee melange),Carmel (sun bleached caramel) and Cep (Mushroom) have beenutilised to great effect. Rosa has been subtly selected to complement the clay,pink tones of terracotta. Styling has been purposely left unfussed,relaxed and understated.   The Lane’s underpin a strong ethos and commitment to giving back tothe environment and community. They own three properties in the region,including The Farm, - a working farm with a collection of micro-businesses,each share the same ethos with traditional and sustainable practices.However, their work in the sustainability space is not limited to theseproperties, with the recent completion of The Beach House East Coast,an event space for retreats and conscious conferencing - proceedsfrom this venue benefit their environmental trust. Thank you to Emma LanePhoto credit: Alicia Taylor

The dining table in any home is a place of communication and connection which we believe should exude a true sense of ‘home’. Whether a time for celebration, entertaining during the festive season, or simply when the family takes a moment to come together at the end of a day, take the opportunity to create your own sense of style in the focal point of your home. As the weather warms up and the yard comes alive to the tune of chirping birds, embrace the change and open your doors to friends and family. Of course, don’t forget to enjoy what culinary delights the change of season will bring! Our entertaining table style is considered sophistication, enhanced with a nod to the pinks hues and tones that has been featuring heavily on the European summer tables.     Pure European Linen – it goes without saying, the functional and style staple of your table is the quality, pure linen tablecloths, runners and napkins. Be playful with hues of soft blush, paired with intensified pinks. Our choice of the season is our Rosa and Moro, complemented by accent colours of rich blue and greens, such as Armee or Fonda.       A touch of imperfection – the iconic handmade ceramic collection of Astier de Villatte will bring the perfectly-imperfect to your table. Centuries of artisans handiwork in each captivating ceramic piece. A must have indulgence.     Mismatched vessels – composition is the trick to incorporating different shapes and textures. Consider ripple vases or glasses paired with earthy stoneware or ceramics.       Coffee table books for the dining table – the magic of inspired food photography in the joy of a hardback recipe book, gracing your table. Cookbooks have transformed into artwork for your table.   Understated greenery – the finishing touches are the most accessible, located in your garden (or neighbour’s)! Forage for Eucalyptus branches, sheoak or pine foliage to delicately fill your table vase.

We are always delighted and intrigued by the beautiful spaces that our pure linen collection goes to feature in. So much so that we have decided to bring you style and inspiration from those that we consider to be our Style Sirens. This week we have our eye on L’Atelier, a light filled character apartment located in Daylesford, on the foothills of the Great Dividing Range.     Referencing Parisian style where vintage treasures are complemented with modern pieces, L'Atelier also honours the old world, country heritage that is the popular weekend getaway of Daylesford. Located only an hour and a half out of Melbourne, but with the vibe of worlds away, Daylesford has long been known as a place of escape and rejuvenation, as well as its healing properties with its famous mineral waters. L’Atelier is laden with charm and style, with the tasteful detail of the 1940’s style kitchen and heritage architectural features, the space has been thoughtfully considered for the needs of the guests. White walls and dark furniture is complemented and softened with the use of light timber, while sisal carpet gives warmth and insulation while maintaining the vintage aesthetic.     Each room has been considerately styled with vintage prints and artwork, delicate lighting and completed with the texture and tone only achieved with Hale Mercantile Co. pure linen bedding and linen accessories.     An emphasis has been placed on pure linen layering, by loosely overlapping and additions of mixed and matched linen cushions and pillows. The addition of our bold stripe line pillowcases is a nod to the old world, while the boldness of Russo adds a rich buzz that is often associated with the historic town.     L’Atelier would not be complete without the assistance of Bell Hemming-Bright on re-styling the property. Image credit, and captured perfectly by Danny Wooton Photography.   The property can be booked through AirBnB or contact directly on 0408589520. 

Indulging in colour when styling or renovating need not be intimidating. Layering complementary or contrasting hues can completely transform the atmosphere of a room and by selecting the right tones, it can do more than create a beautiful aesthetic, it can also influence your emotion and character. We are delighted to be featured in the new Smooth Impasto campaign by Porter’s Paints, which focuses on the transformative qualities of colour in interior styling. The brand has recently released an exquisite selection of rich colours in their range, which ‘drive to create spaces that reflect our individuality and personal expression,' says Porter’s Paints. With sumptuous colours ranging from ‘a rich Grenache tone to a verdant green, terracotta, burnished red’, we love the natural and textural finish that is only achieved with a quality paint such as Porter’s Paints.     Sharing like views of texture and sophistication and a nonpareil palette, our pure linen bedding features timelessly, incorporating the lush greens of Armee throughout our pure linen bedding with the romantic touch of Rosa. Styled to perfection by the talented Heather Nette King and shot flawlessly by Mike Baker. Porter’s Paints and Hale Mercantile Co., a partnership like no other! For more tips on how to combine the perfect colour ways by Hale Mercantile Co., view our ‘Shop our Style’ page for endless inspiration.

A quaint historic post office, transformed into a beautiful and modern abode without losing any of the original period charm. Located in the quiet seaside town of Port Fairy and originally constructed in 1881, this stunning Bluestone building is the perfect example of how beautiful historical architecture can be recontextualised to work within a modern society. Stepping inside this impeccably styled space, it’s no surprise to find it’s home to Hale Mercantile Co.’s very own Sharon Patsiotis.     The unique period architectural details such as detailed doorframe panels and tall archways are complimented by the eclectic mix of antique decorative pieces, art, taxidermy, and of course Hale Mercantile linen bedding, accessories and furniture.       This beautiful home was recently featured in the June/July issue of Elle magazine, where Sharon provides a personal insight into her inspiration for the space, and the significance the coastal area has for her and her family.     Her own unique style and penchant for antiques works seamlessly throughout the space, as she explains ‘Today’s families are drawn to open-plan living, but I’ve always loved the charm of a small space for showcasing decorative pieces that don’t work in large living areas’     Photography by Shannon Mcgrath

At Hale Mercantile Co, we are passionate about the quality and integrity of the products we create and recommend. Our hard work, care, and passion for what we do is rewarded when we see Hale Mercantile products styled in a beautiful space. Suffice to say we get a buzz when we see how our products are loved and cherished by others. This is why we are excited about this particular blog feature we are about to share with you. Nestled in the quiet river-sde town of Jugiong, beside sweeping paddocks in the countryside of NSW, sits an unassuming old fashioned country pub by the name of The Sir George. This hidden gem brings old-world nostalgia and contemporary comfort together. Originally built in 1852, the historic venue has been restored to create an eclectic space filled with character and charm, and now includes a restaurant, boutique bar, accommodation and artisan bakery. Just off the hume highway between Sydney and Melbourne, The Sir George makes for the perfect watering hole or overnight stop for the weary traveler. Grounded in a philosophy of simplicity and authenticity, you’ll be treated to a menu of locally sourced Hilltops produce, a quaint beer garden, and fresh-baked goods. Should you decided to stay the night, you’ll be welcomed into warm and homely rooms adorned with stunning linen by Hale Mercantile Co. With everything The Sir George has to offer, you’ll find it hard to leave! The Sir George showcases Hale Mercantile Co Crush Linen Throw, Flocca Linen European Pillowcase, Basix European Pillowcase, and Linen Cushions Image sources: www.sirgeorge.com.au www.instagram.com/thesirgeorge

On the third floor of a Soho loft in Manhattan is where you will find all your dreams have come true. The Apartment by The Line is a creative and diverse approach to retail and is a concept store like no other! The Apartment by The Line is the brick and mortar store of the stylish eCommerce shopping website, The Line. This is a must visit place for those who love retail and interior design all in the one place.     The concept was created by New York stylists Vanessa Traina and Morgan Wendelborn who set up shop as The Apartment, a very clever and stylish way to sell online products to an offline consumer. In side this shop-able apartment, everything is up for grabs and there is something about the way that the products are visually merchandised in a related way that makes The Apartment such a special shopping experience. It is a place where shoppers can gain inspiration for their own homes décor or their own fashion and beauty, all in a place so unique from today boutiques that can often be over filled with unappealing products.     With coats hanging on the wall hooks and loose change scattered on the side table, it is this sort of attention to detail which gives The Apartment a human element and authentic aspect. The general purpose was to put something together based on how people actually live because if you are going to spend $18,000 on a chair, you might want to experience it for yourself first!     If you can’t make it to see The Apartment, you can still shop directly from the online website, The Line. Here you will find pieces featured in The Apartment which are all carefully chosen products from established and emerging designers. They also offer a growing range of online and offline services, including by-appointment shopping, personal styling and interior design consultation.  The Line is bringing new meaning to the phrase “Make yourself at home” and you can visit The Apartment Monday–Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday’s: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Apartment by The Line76 Greene St, New York, NY 10012(646) 678-4908 Photos courtesy of The Apartment.

Juz Kitson is a ceramicist from Sydney’s Central Coast who has been based in the Chinese city of Jingdezhen (often known as the world renowned porcelain capital) for the last 6 years. Kitson uses her fascination with organic forms to create objects of unsettling beauty.       Her work consists of wall sculptures, taxonomic collections of small works displayed in groups usually built around that enduring signifier of love, death and desire – the heart. Just as Kitson’s sculptures appear undefined in their very form, they also blur the barriers between living and decaying.     We are absolutely fascinated with Juz’s work here at Hale and we were so lucky that she was kind enough to ‘Take Five’ with us and give a rare insight into her fascinating world.   HMCo: Tell us a little bit about your background – what path led you to what you’re doing now? I learnt from a very early age that I wanted to pursue a career in the arts, attending art school at The National Art School in Sydney and surrounding myself with an eclectic group of people from all walks of life meant I was exposed to a lot about art, music and culture. Originally I wanted to pursue photography but I became sidetracked by the endless possibilities of ceramics and have never looked back. HMCo: What does a typical day of yours involve? A typical day doesn’t exist in my world. I thrive on chaos and tend to be ‘go go go’ all the time. I lead a very nomadic lifestyle, constantly moving; I need a lot of visual stimulation to make the type of work I do. The different landscapes and cultures I surround myself in influences the type of work I make. A day involves; a coffee of course, healthy breakfast, yoga or a walk with my Tibetan spaniel, check emails, a few phone calls and then straight into the studio. My work is incredibly labour intensive and often demands 10-16 hour work days. I’m a night owl, so often I burn the midnight candle. HMCo: Who inspires you inside & outside the design world? I’m inspired by strong independent women in the contemporary art scene. The artists Patricia Piccinini and Del Kathryn Barton, the gallerists Jan Murphy and Roslyn Oxley, the curator Alexi Glass, the writer Miranda Darling and Chinese artist Cao Fei based in Beijing. HMCo: Which other Australian designers, artists or brands are you loving at the moment? I’m loving Skarfe at the moment, based in Sydney’s Potts Point and working collaboratively with artists to produce the prints for their beautiful scarves. In terms of ceramics I’m a big fan of my fellow contemporaries like Brendan Huntley, Lynda Draper and Glenn Barkley. All pushing the traditional notions of a medium steeped in history onto a contemporary platform. HMCo: What would be your dream creative project? Most of my work to date has been site specific within the white cube gallery space. A dream project would be to cover an entire facade of a beautifully designed architectural building with hand built porcelaneous objects or to create a major suspended ethereal installation in a foyer with objects illuminated with LED Lights. HMCo: While you are based o/s - what do you miss most about Australia? I’ve been based in Jingdezhen China for 6 years - for me it’s the hustle and bustle I’m attracted to there, the realisation of ideas in a short period of time and accessibility to materials and processes. It’s a fast paced life and I thrive on it, although I often miss the Australian bush, the diversity of our land here is like nothing I’ve seen elsewhere in the world.    

Citing craftsmanship, innovation and research as their core values, one of our favourite online journals, LE PARADOX' ethos befits HMCo's philosophy of culture, tradition, pride and centuries of craftsmanship. A recently published article by Founder and Editor-in-Chief, Cecilia Musmeci caught our attention where she chats to Italian label Archivio J.M. Ribot and their artisinal approach to creating garments. Describing Archivio J.M. Ribot's collection as "digging into the past to give a new identity to clothes that have a memory," Cecilia expressed that she "really hopes we will have the chance to actually touch and see the pieces in person as they are truly outstanding. One can sense the incredible craftwork behind each stitching." So do we. ARCHIVIO J.M. RIBOT – CAPSULE I Nostalgia is an active and useful creative tool that brings the old times back.In this spirit, Archivio J.M. Ribot digs into the past to give a new identity to things that have a memory. Officially launched last year, Archvio J.M. Ribot is a research clothing project split in two capsule collections: Riforma, consisting of one-of-a-kind pieces created by combining antique parts of clothing from early 20th century, and Archivio, a series of limited edition garments made with ancient fabrics collected in a textile archive throughout the years. The concept that inspired the project subverts codes of sartorial conservatism, showcasing a great engagement with craft...      

It would be hard to imagine anyone more passionate about ceramics, and the more imperfect the better.Interior designer Janine Vasta takes us to meet Justin van Nierop, artisan, designer and founder of the Melbourne tile gallery Urban Edge Ceramics.     Justin van Nierop started Urban Edge Ceramics 15 years ago in an inner city Richmond warehouse that he says had seen better days. “It was supposed to be a hobby project, a toy.” Justin set up the showroom after the pace of the successful Sydney renovation company he ran with his sister left him looking for something more low-key. Instead the thriving business now sees him crossing the globe several times a year in search of the best and latest surfaces in Europe and beyond. But meeting Justin you get the feeling that nothing he does stays small for long. He’s the kind of person who reminds you that success really can come from following your passion and trusting your own sense of style. Oh, and that perfection is way overrated.     The highly skilled Portuguese artisans Justin has teamed up with to produce his latest collection had a hard time understanding that he wasn’t seeking a faultless tile. “The first samples they produced were just too perfect,” he says. “It was a really difficult process. They just didn’t believe that we actually wanted the tiles to have wobbly edges and for the glaze not to be perfectly even and flat.”     Justin says that his partners in the new range are Portugal’s only government certified producers of ceramic tiles. “They kept looking at us and saying, ‘but no!’,” he laughs. “These guys have been conditioned to create the perfect handmade tile. It was a bit of a shock when we actually wanted them to relax a bit.” The result, “Fifth Element Handmade Tiles”, is completely artisan-made, from sourcing and mixing the clay and grinding the pigments for the glaze to the firing process that creates the little imperfections that make every tile in the collection unique. “Everything is done as it has been for centuries,” he says. Laying them out on the table back in Melbourne, Justin looks like a proud father. He loves them. He dreams about them he tells me unashamedly. “They’re my gems.”     This isn’t such an odd analogy when you consider Justin trained as a goldsmith in Sydney and spent his childhood fixing old watches with his father, a Dutch watchmaker and jeweler. The youngest of five and the only boy, he learnt from his father to love and respect handmade objects and the artisans who create them. This passion for craft and the happiness that comes from beautiful textures and surfaces shapes the collection at Urban Edge Ceramics.     Justin’s Dutch-born mother played her part too, making everything at home from bread and cakes to clothes by hand. “Nothing was bought," he says. “It was the seventies and there was a lot of sameness but everything we had was handmade.” Fast forward to 2015 and Justin thinks his mum’s handmade fashion would be way cool today. “Handmade clothes, handmade food, handmade whatever is cool now,” he says. “It’s self-expression. Whatever is cool for you is cool.” For Justin, along with his fierce anti-sameness ethos, certain inspirations never falter. When I ask him where he finds most of his products for UEC he’s quick to single out Italy as his go-to place for everything from lifestyle and coffee to tiles. “The Italians are the best,” he says. “I know them and I know their quality is going to be first class." But he’s also ready to add a new muse to the list. “Lisbon is amazing,” he says, recounting the story of a dinner for two in the Portuguese capital (Justin works and travels with his partner Mia) that turned into a late night sightseeing tour with the local couple at the next table. “The Portuguese are so open, ” he says. “They say ‘this is our style’ but they’re not too proud to reinvent themselves and try new things. I could move there tomorrow."