Farage - A Fusion of Heritage and Modernity

In the heart of Sydney's Darlinghurst, the headquarters of luxury tailoring label Farage emerges as an exquisite testament to the seamless blend of heritage and modern design. The building, a former haven for artistic expression as Watters Gallery for six decades, has undergone a metamorphosis under the visionary guidance of Greg Natale, paying homage to its vibrant past while charting a new era of sophistication.

Greg Natale's reimagination of the corner building not only breathes new life into its historic walls but also transforms it into a multi-faceted space. Comprising office quarters, two levels of retail indulgence, and a bespoke atelier, the Farage headquarters is a testament to the meticulous fusion of function and form. The concept store's entrance boasts the strikingly retained brutalist concrete staircase, an artistic centrepiece that gracefully connects the ground and first floors, setting the stage for the sleek modernist aesthetic that defines the entire structure.

As you ascend, the building unveils lofty interiors that resemble a gallery-like showcase of Farage's collections. Sculptures and paintings by leading artists punctuate the space, creating an immersive experience. Greg Natale's inspiration draws from the late-80s and early-90s retail design, showcasing a poetic use of concrete and negative space that exudes an aura of enduring minimalism.

Throughout the building, the raw, utilitarian quality of concrete finds a harmonious companion in crisp white walls, black-patinaed metal accents, smoky grey marble, and gallery-style track lights. Maria Papantoniou, the interior stylist, sourced vintage Italian pieces that seamlessly integrate into the space. Upholstered in jewel-toned velvets, these furnishings pop against the pared-back setting, a perfect synchrony with the modernist vibe while maintaining a timeless elegance.

The use of the Eames Segmented Table and Eames Aluminum Chairs within the Farage office space masterfully complements the interior theme. The Eames designs, iconic symbols of mid-century modernism, bring a timeless elegance to the space, blending seamlessly with Farage's heritage-inspired aesthetic. The Segmented Table, with its sleek lines and modular design, reflects a modernist approach while maintaining a classic appeal, ideal for a brand that honours tradition yet thrives on contemporary innovation. Similarly, the Eames Aluminium Chairs offer both sophistication and comfort, their minimalist design embodying the perfect balance between the old and the new. Together, these pieces create a cohesive environment where the legacy of design meets the future, echoing Farage's own narrative of enduring style and progressive vision.

^{Interior Design: Greg Natale
Photography: Anson Smart}