Penney & Bennett is a luxury homewares brand based in Auckland, New Zealand. With varying fine art backgrounds, Loren and Sarah combine their knowledge and attention to detail to create beautiful NZ made homewares. You can place their products effortlessly into any space to simply freshen the look or revamp completely. Cooper Interiors favourites include the blue water print and the large white thatch cushion.
What was the inspiration behind your new collection?
The aesthetic elements of Guardian were collected during our long tramps in national parks through New Zealand. Guardian embodies the perfect imperfection of the natural world and highlights the subtitles in tones, textures, colours and shapes found in these ethereal locations. We wanted Guardian to celebrate the contemplative, meditative qualities surrounding these places that have been enjoyed by generations for centuries. According to ancient myth, the Guardians are the fauna that protect the laws of the forest.
In terms of the design process, what did you do differently for this collection?
For this collection we still followed the same design principals but extended our offering into cut fabrics so our customer can customise any of our designs their own way. We have always wanted to do a collection based on New Zealand, as we take a lot of inspiration from nature and the environment around us. We have taken a different direction in terms of the visual elements while still maintaining the same voice.
What does your studio or work place look like?
Our studio is relatively small but is serves many different purposes and works well for us. We have a large table which we use for our pattern making, a small stock room, a lighting studio, and a packing table. The walls are decked with patterns, samples, mood boards and ideas for new projects. It is underground with windows out into native greenery with big white walls, painted white beams and a concrete floor. It’s a cosy buzzing space, and there is never a day that we are not excited to come to work!
What are your favourite pieces available now?
S.C: Mine would have to be my emperor wool throw. I used it literally everyday. It is so warm and perfect for when you want to have an afternoon kip. When you aren’t using it, it looks beautiful draped over a sofa or bed to add texture and warmth.
L.M: Mine would be my a0 sized SOMA print in my bedroom. It has so many colours in it and anchors my room.
Who is your favourite NZ designer or artisit and why?
S.C: Fashion designer and artist Lela Jacobs. Her silhouettes are so avant garde and like art forms, but can be easily reinterpreted into your wardrobe and worn with other everyday items.
L.M: Such a tricky question, there are so many amazing NZ designers! StudioLVU ceramics. She is based in London but she is a kiwi and I am really coveting her ceramics, particularly her mugs. I also love Fearon Hay architecture and how their designs get better with time and blend seamlessly into the environment they are designed to sit in.
How would you describe New Zealand's design culture?
S.C: I find New Zealand is very monochrome, black, white and neutral and we are very discerning.
I think coming from a small country that can feel isolated from the world at times, we have to try a lot harder to compete with the rest of the world. The fashion and furniture design coming out of NZ is so cutting edge, and is up there with pioneers of the industry. Making us more proud than we already are to come from this amazing country!
L.M: Our design culture is very influenced by what is happening internationally as we are very small. It gives our design a sophistication and modernity that is unique to New Zealand. We have a beautiful landscape so our design is often complimentary to nature and reflects the humble New Zealand attitude which is very genuine, minimal and understated.
Finally, where is your favourite holiday destination in New Zealand?
S.C: Queenstown! Anytime of year it is beautiful, and the atmosphere is always nice. I’m always blown away by the colours and and how our country is so fearfully and wonderfully made.
L.M: Golden Bay at the top of the South Island . There is so much to do and it is so beautiful. I love the Abel Tasman National park and the beaches and the vibe of Takaka town.
Imagery credited to Jonny Scott, Loren Marks & Sarah Cordzt. Shop: Penney & Bennett. You can also view their Instagram here.
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