Nareen Holloway, Marmoset Found

Where do you call home?

I live in a lovely part of Melbourne - close to the CBD but with loads of parklands and nature trails on my doorstep. Lucky!

Have you always been a designer/ceramicist?

I have always been in the design industry but for most of my career it was fashion and in particular streetwear with Stussy.

All your pieces are designed here in Australia and then ethically manufactured around the world. Can you tell us a little more about this process?

Sure! I am quite old fashioned when it comes to the design process and mostly do this via hand sketches that are then refined over time and through sampling.

I studied a Master of International Development which taught me the skills to do business in an ethical and sustainable way. Our manufacturers are small family businesses who I know well. In the days where we could travel freely I would visit regularly and have dinners with the extended family.

Some of your pieces, for example your Memphis & Aswan range, seem to be inspired by mid-century design. What inspires you?

I am inspired by timeless and functional design. At Marmoset Found we do not aim to release hundreds of new products each season but rather add items that sit well within the current collection and add value. Our customers love to collect pieces and see their pieces as ones that they will keep for a long time.

What’s next for Marmoset?

We have some beautiful new tableware pieces to launch next year alongside two new ceramic vase collections.

It will be an exciting year for new products!

What’s your favourite Marmoset Found piece?

The ones that I use day in day out. The small bowls that my family use for breakfast each day and often again for our evening meal. Oval plates in all sizes and the Yala jug that has a permanent place on our dining table.

What’s a travel destination you can’t wait to visit?

Scandinavia. I am very lucky to have travelled widely however have not made it to the beautiful countries of Denmark, Norway and Sweden know for their impeccable design culture.

What would we find playing in your studio/office?

De La Soul or Grandmaster Flash

If an out of towner was visiting, where would you take them?

Probably around my neighbourhood...brunch at one of the cafes in High St, Northcote followed by a look at the shops and then a stroll along the Yarra River. Later that evening we would head into the heart of the city for drinks and dinner at Hazel.

What are you currently coveting?

The Wylie chair from En.Gold - I am in love with this chair!

 

 

Favourite Instagram feeds?

I enjoy architecture feeds especially @est_living and @studio_brentlee, @berberlodge_ to reminisce about my time in Morocco

Last great book you read?

A friend gave me Celeste Barber 'Challenge accepted" during our last lockdown and it is a lighthearted fun read.

Favourite cocktail?

Classic gin and tonic with a wedge of lime.

Favourite flower?

I adore orchids but usually fill my (many) vases with bunches of gum and other natives.

 

Favourite artist?

Lottie Rae who is located in regional NSW and paints with glorious colour inspired by the Australian outback.

Why shop local?

Local shopping is crucial to the success of local businesses. Also, it attracts and encourages other entrepreneurs to start local businesses, which leads to more jobs and revenue re-circulating throughout the community. Each small business has their own eclectic mix of products and the interaction is so much more personalised. 

Use one word to describe Jim & Jane?

Inspiring