I happened to catch a sign at a small space on Paddington Street, underneath the old Scout Hall, and immediately admired the even light from both sides and the large, copper-lined Victorian shop-front window. It had a simple, flexible interior by the architect Madeleine Blanchfield, which had housed her meeting room and library for several years.

After some mild negotiations with Scouts NSW I signed a lease and made a call to my friend George Livissianis. The brief was to reimagine Madeleine’s work, evolving the space into a ‘collector’s apartment’ – in other words, a frame for my work.

The warm white walls and floors are uneven, and the original pressed tin ceiling is highlighted by a strict datum which crops and modernises the space. Several sliding partitions reveal studio HENRY WILSON lighting and wall works, allowing the space to transform as needed. A long stainless steel plinth runs the length of the interior, functioning as both display and storage for merchandise.

I’ve long imagined opening a showroom in which to show the products I design and make here in Australia, alongside a collection of items I find to be beautiful or functional, or both. As imaginings come to fruition, these will include glassware and linen from Japanese friends, some of my favourite scents – from handmade pure wood incense to oils from Perfumer H and Aesop – and personal care from To My Ships.

I have struggled to justify the mercantile aspect of the store; certainly, it makes little sense on paper. However, in the face of an increasingly fragmented community I wanted a place to meet and to house the objects we make. Somewhere for the public to see, feel and sense what we do.

Stop past for a tea, to look through the collection of design books or pick up a gift. Everything will be here, mostly in stock; and if not, your piece will be made to order and delivered to your door in good time.

I look forward to welcoming you at 87 Paddington Street.