In Precinct 75, an emerging creative precinct in St Peters, stylist, product designer and creative director Sibella Court has reopened her interiors store, The Society Inc. Making the move from a 1860s corner terrace in Paddington, the new store and workshop provides 300-square-metres of space for her to expand the retail and design capacity of her business.

Originally the old Taubmans paint factory built at the turn of the 20th century, the warehouse had fallen into disuse since the 1960s. For Court, the industrial space offered a fitting location in which to showcase an eclectic mix of wares. The interior fit-out is raw and unpolished, with original loft ceilings and exposed concrete in the workshop creating a pared-back aesthetic that references the past. Barn doors and raised timber flooring were the only additions Court and her team made to the space, ensuring the warehouse retained a sense of its history.

“We wanted to create a sophisticated, beautiful retail experience in a unique space whereby the store becomes a destination in itself,” says Court. Celebrating design and tailored craftsmanship, the store is a sensory experience that is forever changing and never finished. The retail space and design studio also facilitates regular workshops and events.

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The Society Inc. features furniture, fittings and soft furnishings, including old timber church chairs which have been painted and restored; dyed linens; cotton Turkish towels and translucent paper lanterns.

In collaboration with Byron Bay-based McTavish Surfboards, a series of bold, graphic-printed surfboards are displayed alongside Quercus & Co. patterned wallpapers and handcrafted ceramics.

With old-fashioned souvenirs, haberdashery and homewares, The Society Inc. is a treasure-trove of handpicked curiosities collected and thoughtfully curated by Court. In addition, Court’s bespoke hardware range offers beautiful, utilitarian tools, blending function and form.

A traveller, Court is constantly inspired by her surrounds – from nature, transport and street art, to exhibitions and film. Much of the store’s stock is from around the world, including vintage shutters from Bali and flags from the United States. “I like items that tell a story,” she says.

The Society Inc. will host local artisans and food trucks at flea markets monthly from Saturday May 2 between 9am-2pm.

The Society Inc.

Warehouse 3.02 75 Mary Street, St Peters

(02) 9331 1592

Opening hours

Mon to Sat 10am–4pm

thesocietyinc.com.au