The Creative Type
Zuster’s Fleur Sibbel and Wilhelmina McCarroll.
Fleur: Design and architecture were common topics of conversation at the dinner table when we were young. Our father, Meyer Sibbel, ran Sibbel Builders and we lived in a beautiful home he designed and built in South Warrandyte, Victoria. Cars would often slow to admire its facade and large windows.
Wilhelmina: Growing up, my three sisters and I were encouraged to be
our own person. When I left school I wanted to either be a vet or to do something creative. I ended up studying furniture technology at RMIT. Dad encouraged me to follow my design dreams and
I’m really happy that I did – I discovered I don’t really like the sight of blood!
Fleur: I’ve had so many proud moments with Zuster, but crafting
furniture for the Jackalope Hotel and Melbourne Jet Base would be at the top of the list. I’m also thrilled with our Reece collaboration; its success has been amazing.
Wilhelmina: It’s been a busy time for
us. We’re launching our new Blossom vanities with Reece in August; there’s an upcoming line of Zuster doorware; and a new bedroom collection called Cloud, which is all curved corners and soft, organic shapes.
Fleur: Zuster has changed a lot over the years. There’s a greater level of complexity and innovation in the designs. We’ve expanded into upholstery manufacturing too, with a dedicated factory producing more than 100 exclusive fabrics.
Wilhelmina: It’s my dream to one day design small, sustainable homes and to perhaps develop an equestrian function centre that showcases the amazing talents of dressage riders.
Fleur: My creativity is expressed through our marketing, branding and strategy. I’m good at implementing an idea when it resonates with me. # Zuster; (03) 9427 7188 or zuster.com.au