Wholesaler Casa e Cucina has added two new textile brands to its portfolio, complementing its existing range of Italian servingware.
Founders Jenny Westrup and Quentin Robertson began Casa e Cucina in early 2017 as a way of sharing their love of Italian design with the Australian market. After being named the Australian and New Zealand distributor of Zafferano Italia’s range of glassware, dinnerware and wine glasses, the pair went in search of other European brands that would help them present a more comprehensive solution for decorating the table and home.
“Quentin and I went to the European fairs earlier this year with the mission of finding something new and interesting that would complement the Zafferano collections for the table,” says Westrup.
“We came back from Europe armed with a suitcase of samples and a box of clothes heading home unaccompanied.”
The pair has since added Swedish brand Lovely Linen and Italian textile label Jeans Décor to their line-up, which will be on show at Life Instyle Melbourne next month.
The offering from Lovely Linen includes collections for bed, bath and table, all with an extra soft feel and a pleasantly rumpled look.
“What sets Lovely Linen apart is they use the highest quality long flax from Europe, which makes all the difference to the endurance of the finished product,” says Westrup.
“The bedlinen is to die for—a stunning colour palette in two weights with stripes and plains to mix and match. The colours are really beautiful and we also have cushion covers, towels and blankets.”
Jeans Décor was founded by Italian textile artist Flavio Ongaro, who produces handmade fabrics in his workshop near Venice. The fabric comes in a standard panel size of 1.2×1.6 metres, which is perfect to hang as wall art, but can also be made into longer lengths for larger projects.
“We are thrilled to represent Jeans Décor here,” says Robertson. “Flavio’s work is inspiring and has many applications for interiors.
“His love of the indigo blues found in streetwear inspires his colour palette and local nature scenes come to life in his designs. He also reworks original medieval tapestry designs but with a modern twist.”
Along with its three brands, Casa e Cucina is also exhibiting one-off vintage pieces at Life Instyle, which Westrup says could make great props in a retail environment.
“I have always had a love of antiques and vintage,” she says. “A little bit of vintage can be just the right finishing touch to make a house your home or to display your products instore.”
By Ruth Cooper
