Stockist Spotlight / Luxury designer goodies in the heart of Riverhead
At the end of my studies, I had learnt the skills to create strong visual content. Though discovered my passion and strengths are in the practical aspects of design; art and textiles.
I started out with a range of boutique cushions and bedding which featured hand-drawn graphics I’d designed. The opportunity to showcase these products came about and the brand Studio Black was established.
In the early days when I was attending local markets, I discovered fellow creatives like myself. I approached some of my favourite New Zealand artists and designers - I’m totally inspired by the amazing talent pool of designers and craftspeople we have here in NZ. I want to keep supporting like-minded creatives by offering them a permanent retail outlet for their amazing products. Along with sourcing other international brands. These products were hand picked and stocked in store at Studio Black.
Where are your favourite places to find creative inspiration?
I get most of my inspiration when I’m out getting exercise & fresh air, beach walks are my favourite. I’m always inspired by nature and my drawings reflect this. I have a large library of images on Pinterest I collect, that inspire my textile projects. Bouncing ideas around with my family members and friends keep things fresh and exciting too.
What do you consider to be your biggest win?
Definitely the biggest win for me is the environment I work in. Studio Black is based on our family owned property, I get to take our dog to work every day, get regular visits from my family and friends. It’s a fun, special environment to work in and I cherish it every day.
What has been your biggest challenge running Studio Black?
Making the decision to run the business full time. This has also proved to be the most rewarding. As it goes… if you never try you’ll never know. I feel like I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
As I am solely responsible for running the store and curating the product collection I have a variety of roles to fulfil, which keeps me busy, I do love it though. There are accounts to be organised, new stock to be unpacked, displayed, photographed. Working on advertising, for social media and the web, along with coming up with new content and artwork for my textile brand August River.
I’m regularly sourcing new product, we have a lot of locals looking for something different and have an appreciation for good design, the selective buying process is crucial to our brand. On busy days in the store, giving assistance and interior advice to our customers in the store is the priority.
What is your vision for the store?
I’m really proud of where Studio Black is at currently. If I’m inspired by a new idea I weave this into my vision for the brand. We’re always coming up with ways of improving the overall look and feel of the store and surrounding environment. We’ve recently added on an extension to the store to showcase more product, a new exciting opportunity for coffee and treats next door on site from our lovely neighbours at LuLu’s Espresso is only weeks away… The possibilities are endless!
I literally turn into a zombie when it comes to airports…I recently went to Europe with my partner and I realised how useless I’d be if I ever had to travel alone.
I’m a Riverhead local. I’ve lived in the rural town for most of my life. Having established the business here is extra special - Studio Black oozes country living and style. I want to preserve our town's unique character.
If you want to find out more about Studio Black you can visit their website or visit the store at 1058A Coatesville - Riverhead Highway, Riverhead, Auckland. The store is open 6 days: Monday - Friday 10:00am-4:30 pm and Saturday 10:00am-3:00pm.
