MARQUISE FLAGSHIP

Doherty Design Studio

A CONSIDERED blend of playfulness and sophistication, this babywear boutique by Mardi Doherty (above left) and Phoebe Lipscombe honours the brand’s longevity and commitment to quality. What was the brief? The client’s graphic designer, Chloe Quigley from Ortolan, introduced us to Marquise. Our brief was to create a retail space to showcase baby clothes while providing a design anomalous for babywear stores with an interior that eschews the typical aesthetic. What were the challenges of the space and how did you resolve them? Our main challenge was the hundreds of miniature pieces to be showcased in a narrow 55sqm space. Working with builder Supa Dupa Industries, every element was delicately custom designed and fabricated to cater for the tiny clothing. What were some of the ideas and influences that shaped your design concept? To design a store that was both playful and nostalgic but as it also needed to appeal to adult buyers, it required a level of sophistication. The Marquise brand has a strong sense of tradition and quality that necessitated this injection. How would you describe the completed interior? It is part inner sanctum with elements of play, brand history and an appreciation for the intricacies of shopping for baby clothes. The quiet base of porcelain-pink textured plaster and calming feature lights are layered with carefully placed shots of colour. The delicate palette across neutrals and peaches along with the deliberately curved design and customised fixtures complement the extensive babywear pieces. What informed the selection of furniture, art, fittings and finishes? Each element was thoughtfully planned and curated with durable finishes and high-quality custom details. To create cohesion and flow, curved walls and joinery make the space feel more generous while guiding prams to circulate. Strategically placed tiles reduce the risk of abrasions, while the bespoke wall render by local artisans is external grade and robust enough to withstand any runins with prams or shopping trolleys. Hard-wearing, honed tile flooring is a durable surface choice to withstand many feet – big and small – for years ahead. What are your favourite elements? The kaleidoscope of reflections from the custom coloured-acrylic light feature that was inspired by the 1960s toy PlayPlax. This fresh take on childhood memories provides a nostalgic nod so appropriate to a brand that is nearly 90 years old. Was the client happy? After fostering their brand for decades, Marquise are extremely proud of this flagship store. dohertydesignstudio.com.au

SEAN FENNESSY