Shelley Panton · Prahran Store
Shopping
3rd February, 2014
Shelley Panton's new store in Malvern rd, Prahran. Photo - Caitlin Mills.
Shelley Panton and her pup Jessie, at her new store in Prahran. Photo - Caitlin Mills.
Shelley Panton's range homewares and gifts, many locally made. Photo - Caitlin Mills.
Shelley Panton's beautiful store in Prahran. Photo - Caitlin Mills.
OK so today's feature isn't exactly breaking news I'm afraid (!!), Shelley Panton's gorgeous new store in Prahran actually opened late last year, but goodness knows we were a little sidetracked at the time! So FINALLY today we're getting around to sharing this new retail offering with you.
You might recall my post many moons ago on Shelley's first store in Middle Park, which occupied the sweetest little shopfront in an otherwise entirely residential street. After nearly 5 years in Middle Park, Shelley finally outgrew her much loved little shop, and luckily secured a larger shopfront in a prominent position on bustling Malvern Road, Prahran.
'We have doubled our floor space and have extended our range, however my pottery studio is still very much a part of the store' explains Shelley, whose handcrafted tableware has always been a central focus of her business. It's been hugely important for Shelley to retain warm and inviting feel of her quaint little Middle Park store - 'I wanted the space to feel the same as where we began and not lose it’s charm' she says.
Just like her previous store, Shelley’s new shop is stocked to the brim with gorgeous locally crafted homewares, textiles, books, gifts and Shelley’s own beautiful handcrafted stoneware tableware. In addition, Shelley has teamed up with a local pottery producer Robert Gordon Australia to create a range of tableware to complement her own.
'Since I opened my studio in 2009 I have been approached by many chefs to produce pottery for their kitchens, but given that I can only physically handcraft about 800-1000 pieces each year, I decided to explore working with a local pottery producer to develop an additional range of functional stoneware for my store' Shelley explains. This new 'Table Series' is still Melbourne made and kiln fired, and includes a range of classic kitchen vessels in neutral hues. Later this year, Shelley plans to add new colours to the range.
Alongside this new tableware range, Shelley continues to wheel-throw her own complementary stoneware range on site, known as her 'Studio Series'. Though her business has diversified to meet demand in recent years, it's clear Shelley's passion for her craft is still at the heart of her retail operation. 'As my business has grown I’ve had to schedule in time to work on the wheel, which is mostly before 10am or after 4pm, when there are no interruptions from the day' she explains. 'I cherish this time, as it allows me to get lost in my thoughts and process the day to day, while I’m creating something tactile and beautiful'.
Aside from juggling the day-to-day running of her retail store with her own creative practice, Shelley is also well known for hosting an ongoing series of 'Dinners in the Studio', collaborating with various local creatives and food and wine producers. Over two nights in early March her store will once again be turned into a dining space to host two intimate feasts, as part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. More info on Shelley's website here!
Shelley Panton
440 Malvern Rd
Prahran, VIC
Open daily, 10.00am to 5.30pm.
The 'Table Series' of handcrafted ceramics, at Shelley Panton's new shop in Prahran. Photo - Caitlin Mills.
Details from Shelley Panton's new store in Prahran. Photo - Caitlin Mills.
I live just down the road from Shelley’s store and was thrilled when it opened, it’s such a gorgeous collection of all things lovely. Now, to just find some space on my tiny apartment shelves for some of her pieces….
Congratulations Shelley- lovely new space and a beautifully curated collection as always!
Great to see this! Shelley Panton’s stoneware pottery is stunning! I will enjoy my plates for a lifetime, and I get great pleasure from serving on them, just seeing them in my kitchen inspires me to cook! A real artisan!! x
The most beautiful store! Wonderful work, Shelly on nailing the retail experience. During the crazy Christmas peek this store was a breath of fresh air. The most friendliest and helpful staff, gorgeous atmosphere and top quality product (it’s so hard to choose!) all complimented with great music. I left conjuring up more presents to buy just so I could return!
Wow, I’m going there. It looks gorgeous – I love the pottery. Thanks for bring Shelley’s store to our attention
Wow. Looks like a beautiful shop. Nice to hear it grows. Will be checking out.
Melbournians always have such great hair (shop is pretty gorgeous too)!
Shelley is such a gem – warmhearted, talented and a great supporter of other Australian artisans. Thanks for introducing her to those who have not yet stepped through her door.
Oh, I loved that shop in Middle Park, and I loved Jessie! She was so welcoming and helpful. The new shop looks fantastic.
What a delight it is to enter Shelley’s store. It takes me an age to move around the room…..slowly, as there is so much for the eyes to feast on. The staff are friendly and helpful and don’t mind if you are still there 45 minutes and still meandering. My favourite place to visit when in Melbourne.
Beautiful! I wish Sweden was closer…
I visited Shelley on the very first day she started her business in Albert Park . She is testament that if you find what you love to do and make it happen with lashings of hard work the world is your oyster.
Inspiring !
We just love that there are so many beautiful products that Shelley produces locally and brings in from other artists and makers… we joined in her first Studio Dinner, and if you have not been its a wonderful and inspiring event… I am sure the new store will create many more wonderful memories and more… Congrats Shelley, its been a joy to watch your your styling and success.
To Shelley Panton and team, I just wanted to say how lovely my first visit was last year. As soon as I walked in not only was I in retail heaven, but I was made to feel so very, very welcome. So thanks again. I look forward to dropping in again soon.
Looks like a fabulous store! Ive been meaning to pop in. Makes me make sure I make the time next time I pass! Great story Lucy as usual!
Looks lovely Shelly…. need to get down there!
These types of stores are why I love living in Melbourne!
Shelley is such a delight to work with. I still have a very special dish she made me which I feature in my bathroom with gorgeous brown glass bottles sitting on it. She is very talented and I am so pleased to read and see her store feature on your blog.
I take the dog!
And those gorgeous Uashmama bags, just quietly.