Tell me about the conception of MCM House – how did you start the business?

Growing up, my mum had started exporting furniture from London in the 70s, which really kickstarted the first era of post-modern antique furniture. Being surrounded by that kind of decorative environment inspired me to create a style of business that’s always been about blending old-world charm with a contemporary edge. Decorative styling has always been at the core of what we do, and that’s still what MCM House is all about today.

Where was your very first office or workshop? How does that space compare to your current head office?

My first space was a fabric storeroom on Harbour Street in Mosman. It quickly became my first store. I remember creating these steel and glass windows that captured a rustic but chic lifestyle — that mix set the tone for everything that followed. Since then, I’ve opened five iconic Sydney locations and expanded nationally, but every store has stayed true to a consistent creative vision. Each one exists to reflect a complete aesthetic — that's always been the reason for investing in our own retail spaces.

Do you have a standout design from the last 15 years that acts as a staple in the MCM House collection?

The tables I made in the early days will always be special. It still blows me away how many homes across the country have MCM furniture in them — things I’ve designed and made with my own hands. What I’m most proud of is helping shape a vision of style that feels attainable for a wide audience. Good taste shouldn’t be out of reach.

Looking back, can you tell me more about the launch of your very first collection? What products did you launch with?

Starting out, I was buying and selling antique furniture, which naturally led me into creating new pieces. The first designs — a simple timber table and a steel-framed mirror — are still in the collection today. They struck the right contrast between old and new. I made and finished both pieces myself in a small Brookvale workshop, which I remember as the true beginning of the MCM journey.

How did you create buzz for the brand in the early years before social media and digital advertising?

From day one, I was lucky to collaborate with some amazing creatives who helped make MCM more than just a furniture brand. It became part of the cultural fabric of Sydney and beyond. Kym Ellery’s first fashion show, Lucy Folk’s pop-up taco shop, Bill Granger’s café at our inaugural art show — those early moments helped shape what MCM was about. Then came things like Simon Davidson’s hot rod cars, Christopher Esber’s art show, Nick Leary’s first show. The retail spaces were always more than shops — they were places for creative exploration and cultural moments. That still holds true today.

How has your approach to design changed over the years?

My core aesthetic hasn’t really changed — it’s always been about timeless pieces and celebrating imperfections. I’ve always loved raw materials and finishes with character. But as the business has grown, we’ve had to consider how products scale nationally. That’s brought a level of maturity to the design process. We still lead with feel, but we balance that with quality, durability, and the values we know our customers are looking for.

Can you tell me more about the relationship between art and interiors?

I held my first exhibition back in Year 11 at school, which in hindsight was the start of everything for me creatively. Art, for me, is an expression of style. It sets a tone. I think great interiors feel like they’ve been touched by an artist’s hand — not necessarily because of the art on the wall, but because they carry a mood. They shift the atmosphere.

Can you share your most memorable moments from the last 15 years?

There have been so many — but the standouts always come back to risk. The moments where we backed ourselves creatively and built something unexpected. Opening stores, building a brand, collaborating with amazing people, growing a team — those “mad” moments are what have made the journey so full of life.

You’ve just launched Loyalty in celebration of your 15th anniversary. Can you tell me more about the program and what it means for MCM House’s strategy moving forward?

The brand is what it is because of our customers. We’re proud to have built a national footprint, and Loyalty is our way of thanking the people who’ve supported that journey. It gives customers better access to our range, but more than that, it makes them feel part of what we’re building. It’s a way to stay connected, to deepen the relationship and to ensure they feel recognised.

Can you share more about the benefits of Loyalty?

Loyalty gives our customers access to exclusive savings every time they shop, which is a big shift for us. It’s a more considered way of giving back to the people who’ve supported us over the years. Members also get early access to new collections, invitations to in-store events, and design consultations in our showrooms. It’s about making our customers feel part of the brand, not just as buyers, but as people who are genuinely connected to what we’re building.