Accommodation New Zealand introduces
Agra Forma series from Armadillo
Armadillo's Agra Forma collection is something a little different for the rug company. Launched during Melbourne Design Week and created in collaboration with renowned designer Tom Fereday, the seven sculptural furniture pieces are rooted in Armadillo's iconic Agra rug, blending the rug's abrash-dyed wool with American red oak. Fereday's minimalist, tactile approach celebrates sustainable materials and craftsmanship, resulting in pieces that balance softness and strength.
Saddle collection by Articolo Studios
It was hard not to stop and explore the campaign photos of Articolo's new Saddle Furniture Collection shot in the stark, surreal and otherworldly landscape of Cooper Pedy. The Saddle collection is a celebration of artisanal craftsmanship and leatherwork seen scross an armchair, bench and ottoman. Each piece pairs linen-clad cushions with leather slings and solid walnut legs. Handcrafted with detailing inspired by saddlery and Milanese ateliers, the collection is warm, durable and refined, fitting for residential, hospitality and commercial settings … and even the arid plains of Cooper Pedy.
Cusp Hook by Dutoit Studio
I love how his simple, durable and timeless this sculptural wall hook is. South African-born, Australian designer Dirk du Toit designed this hook, with its offset geometry and faceted surface designed to catch and play with light and shadow. It's available in aluminium or bronze and adds a quiet elegance and everyday utility to wherever you want to put it.
Almas modular seating from Knotte
New Australian modular seating brand Knotte made its debut during this year's Melbourne Design Week, and in doing so launched three new series, but my favourite is Almas. A collaboration between Knotte and emerging Melbourne designer Joanne Odisho (who I selected for the Emerging Maker Prize at Craft's Fresh Awards in 2023), the Almas modular sofa celebrates connection and comfort. Named after Odisho's grandmother, Almas evokes family warmth with its soft, rounded form and indented cylindrical bolster backrest. It's a perfect reflection of Knotte's commitment to nurturing new talent and creating furniture that feels timeless, familiar and deeply personal.
Alexandra Howie ceramics
Presented by Amy Voterakis for Melbourne Design Week 2025 at Hali Rugs, emerging ceramicist Alexandra Howie's handbuilt vessels begin as coiled, archetypal forms, inspired by the sculpted drapery of Classical and Hellenistic art. Layers of clay are carefully hand-sculpted, then refined with a scalpel and burnisher to evoke the softness of folded fabric and wet drapery. The resulting forms are romantic and feminine, subtly exploring themes of vulnerability, concealment and ritual - echoing the cultural symbolism of dressing, shrouding, and the quiet power of reverence. Simply beautiful.
