DESIGN | Woollahra Store by Phoebe Nicol

DESIGN

We chat to the talented designer of our new location in Woollahra, Sydney. Expertly designed by Phoebe Nicol, it encapsulates a certain understated luxury that underpins the CULTIVER spirit.

I’ve been running my own interior architectural firm for over eight years now, which has given me the opportunity to work on a wide variety of residential and commercial projects. Each project brings its own unique challenges and rewards, and I love how diverse the work can be.

My design philosophy is all about crafting spaces that truly reflect each client’s individuality. In addition to my design practice, I co-own an antiques business, The Vault Sydney, with my husband Jeremy. The combination of my design work and the antiques business enriches my creative process and keeps things fresh and exciting.

Creativity, for me, is about the freedom to explore and express ideas in ways that resonate deeply. It’s hard to pinpoint a single source of inspiration, as I draw from a multitude of influences. My travels, art, and both contemporary and historic architecture continuously ignite new ideas and perspectives.

I also find immense inspiration in collaboration with my talented team. Together, we exchange thoughts and ideas, which enriches our designs and allows for innovative solutions to emerge. Each team member brings their unique skills and viewpoints, making the creative process a shared journey.

My philosophy towards design is about creating spaces that go beyond any single style. It's about blending materials, forms, and architectural gestures - rather than adhering to rigid styles or trends

When I designed the first Cultiver flagship store in 2020, my focus was on creating a space that celebrated natural materials and craftsmanship. Fast forward four years, and I had the opportunity to bring this vision to a more intimate setting in Woollahra. This new space allowed me to explore natural materials in a different way, playing with textures and finishes that evoke warmth and authenticity, while still keeping the core values of the original store in mind.

One of my favourite elements of the new Cultiver store is the point of sale unit, which is made from hand-carved timber. This piece represents a beautiful fusion of craftsmanship and natural materials, and its texture brings a tactile warmth to the space. I’ve always believed that natural materials help ground design.

The decorative lighting is another element I adore. It’s not just about illumination; it creates a layered effect, adding depth and warmth to the room. Lighting is such a powerful tool in design—it sets the mood, highlights textures, and makes a space feel more inviting. In this store, the lighting works harmoniously with the natural materials.

The stainless steel elements provide a contemporary contrast to the warmth of the timber and lighting. I love the balance between the sleekness of steel and the softness of wood, as it reflects the mix of modernity and tradition that is central to my aesthetic.

I draw inspiration from a variety of architectural and design styles, which collectively inform my approach. Classical architecture resonates deeply with me, particularly its emphasis on proportion, symmetry, and detail. At the same time, I am equally inspired by modernist design, which focuses on simplicity and functionality. I find that blending these two styles—classical and modern—creates a rich dialogue in my work.

To me, a house becomes a home when it embodies warmth and comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere. Cozy interiors evoke layers of texture, which play a vital role in achieving that feeling. I love incorporating a mix of materials—like soft fabrics, rich woods, and inviting colors—to create depth and visual interest throughout a space.

When it comes to furniture and decorative items, I gravitate towards strong pieces that have both character and restraint. These elements should stand out without overwhelming the room. I believe that each item should tell a story, contributing to the overall narrative of the home. The careful selection of furniture and decor creates a sense of harmony, making the space feel personal and lived-in.

To me, a house becomes a home when it embodies warmth and comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere. Cozy interiors evoke layers of texture, which play a vital role in achieving that feeling. I love incorporating a mix of materials—like soft fabrics, rich woods, and inviting colors—to create depth and visual interest throughout a space.

When it comes to furniture and decorative items, I gravitate towards strong pieces that have both character and restraint. These elements should stand out without overwhelming the room. I believe that each item should tell a story, contributing to the overall narrative of the home. The careful selection of furniture and decor creates a sense of harmony, making the space feel personal and lived-in.

I always start my day with a black coffee and finish with a bath, but on a deeper level, as a mother, the rituals of motherhood often provide the greatest moment of joy. I cherish the little things. I would say these simple pleasures set me up for a productive day in the office. I am grateful to have a very supportive team behind me which keeps me grounded and humble.

phoebenicol.com
chriswarnes.com.au