A textural palette inspired by a dusty Australian landscape; Cashmere Collection is home to the finest quality sweaters and scarves, located in Sydney’s iconic Queen Victoria Building.

The floor plan is simplified to open the space and take advantage of the existing heritage windows. At 30sqm, the store can become crowded with only a handful of customers. An unnecessary stock room is removed to offer more floor space and joinery is designed with enough internal storage to compensate.

The product display is not fussy, yet there is a gentle play on depth and shadow. Open shelving and flat lay displays are the most effective to showcase the meticulously folded cashmere. The proportions of the space and these elements are refined, as well as the relationship between materials. Brass trims, backlighting and subtle shadow lines elevate the interior. Sweeping curves soften the appearance of large mirrors and patterned wallpaper is a surprise element inside the welcoming change room.

The most important aspect of the brief was ensuring the space is not trend driven, but marches to the beat of its own drum. The store is confident and graceful without being pretentious. Each finish celebrates beauty in imperfections and is a far cry from a stark monochrome interior. The focus on dusty undertones and tactile surfaces is a quiet reference to the conceptual beginnings and product itself. There is a careful balance between a modern and traditional design aesthetic, as a cashmere sweater can be both contemporary and classic.

CLIENT: Cashmere Collection

BUILDER: Nicom Interiors

RECOGNITION: This project was nominated in the Retail category of the 2016 Interior Design Excellence Awards (IDEA)