Private Client 

To create a storage piece for a client that conceals the contents, but that gives a hint of what is within.

Evoking the art deco style, but sourcing imagery from clothing of that time rather than the furniture or architecture.

I was contacted by a client who needed an alcohol cabinet. She had a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, but didn't want it on display all the time.

She had contacted me because of my obvious interest in clothing in previous work she'd seen.

While she expressed an interest in art deco, she wasn't looking to imitate this style with this new piece. Lighter timbers, not necessarily indigenous, and a display area were also considerations.

My interpretation of the requirements was to set this brief: To create a storage piece that conceals the contents, but that gives a hint of what is within. Evoking the art deco style, sourcing imagery from clothing of that time rather than the furniture or architecture.

I chose to reference an evening gown from the 1920s, worn by a film star. I used a lighter timber veneer inside and a slightly darker and more textured one on the outside, sandwiching layers of ply that are laminated in a subtle arc.

The doors sweep toward the floor in a slightly undulating curve, broken only by the inset, backlit acrylic lightbox. Toward the floor, the doors separate allowing a glimpse of the contents. The doors open to reveal a variety of shelving, both fixed timber and adjustable glass.

The cabinet met the client's storage and display requirements, and matched the style of her home exactly as she had imagined.

As this piece has a triangular footprint, it sits beautifully in a corner - a landmark piece within its environment without dominating the room.

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