Popular Australian homewares brand Xavier&Me is moving in a new direction and has relaunched as Atelier Lane, an online boutique selling a collection of bespoke pieces for the home.
While the actual launch was inspired by her move from Australia to Singapore, the new venture was already on founder Ellie Bradley’s mind several years ago, not long after she started Xavier&Me in 2008.
“I actually thought of Atelier Lane seven years ago, though wasn’t ready to part with Xavier&Me,” she explains. “With my move to Singapore, my new design mood reflected my new tropical home and regular travel again, and it was time to make the transition. Xavier&Me will always be close to my heart and is named after my son, though my family has now grown up and it was time to follow a new direction.”
The well-loved brand has always been known for its bold use of colour and print with its signature pieces including statement cushions, rugs and artworks.
“At Xavier&Me my style flirted with colour, and I styled homes with bright artworks, cushions and rugs that were lively and fun,” says Bradley. “Now living in Singapore, the main colour to hit your senses is green, in every shade. Everything is so lush―foliage, tropical plants, jungle gardens―so you really do have to work with a palette of colours that complement this.
“I am finding myself leaning toward more neutral colours to emphasise the surrounds, with different textures and cooling fabrics such as cottons and linens. But as per my earlier style direction, everything I do is simple and tailored.”
Bradley says that her primary style hasn’t changed much, it has just been refined and edited and Atelier Lane will be a reflection of this.
“I love to travel and my love for exotic destinations, cultures and influences has informed my style choices for Atelier Lane.”
She is also currently designing a new furniture and lighting range, which will be available by 2017.
By Marion Gerritsen
