With a background in visual merchandising and interior decoration, designer Tamara Watts never really imagined she’d be doing what she’s doing now. ‘I never in a million years dreamt that I would be designing lamps and planters and making a business out of it’ the designer admits. After completing her studies, a styling job at Country Road proved a great foundation for her future business – ‘Each day was so varied, power drills to painting, prop making to dressing mannequins, it was so much fun,’ Tamara recalls.
Retro Print Revival was born after Tamara bought a huge stash of a vintage fabric at a market just out of Melbourne. ‘It was one of those ‘I’ll do something with these one day’ purchases,’ Tamara remembers. She made a lampshade for a friend, then another, then another. Then, in 2009, she left her job in visual merchandising, and she’s been running her own business for almost a decade now!
Working from a shared studio space in Brunswick, Tamara sources all her materials locally, and employs local craftsman to create her wares. ‘We are big on supporting local makers, and other small business’ she explains. ‘Most of our makers are one-man businesses that run from their garage’.
This month, Tamara releases another perfect addition to her growing home accessories collection. Her timber ‘Arizona Planters‘ come with either tall or short legs, and make such a cheerful, nostalgia-tinged addition to any space!
In addition, Tamara has just released an extensive collection of new bespoke prints for her popular lamp designs. ‘There are just so many possibilities with textile design!’ the designer enthuses. ‘Really, I just make what I love, and I am so grateful that other people love it too.’
