Designer’s notebook

Who has influenced your work and design ethos? “This is an everevolving answer. I think we have to be continually open to influence

and discovery. There have been many influences for me over the years. The Majorca houses designed by Jørn Utzon are a continuing inspiration, and the work of American architect Jim Olson.”

What are your favourite restaurants? “Milk Haus near Milton on the NSW South Coast is a converted cheese factory. Its philosophy, as simply stated on its website, is back to basics, good food that makes you feel energised and alive – the food is amazing! Rollers Bakehouse (7) in Sydney’s Manly, they specialise in croissants. I love their sculptural interpretation of the classic croissant and their abundant flaky

almond spines remind me of a Stegosaurus.”

Where are your favourite places to shop for homewares? “Angelucci (3) in Melbourne – I’m drawn more to aged and vintage pieces, something that comes with a story. Lunatiques in Mascot, Sydney. Most of the time we come away with nothing, but it’s fun to wander and see what random collection is on offer. Planet (5), in Sydney’s Surry Hills. I love their range of hand-thrown Australian ceramic tableware.”

Where do you go to find inspiration? “I like to turn to books. Instagram is a constant source of reference and awareness, but I like the immersion that a good library can provide. It’s a bit like slow cooking, and just as satisfying! Travel is always the most vivid source of inspiration and rejuvenation in a design sense.”

Do you have a favourite building that – to you – is the perfect

example of architectural work? “On my bucket list is a visit to Can Lis (6) in Majorca [by Jørn Utzon]. I love its fortress-like pavilions arranged along the clifftop … I think it is such a poetic house.”

What is on your wish list right now? “An ultimate wish list item is a Sergio Fiorentino painting (8). I love sketching and life drawing or drawing from casts/sculptures (4) – it’s kind of a meditation for me – I’d love a collection of plaster casts to spend time drawing,

and a Fritz Hansen ‘Series 7’ swivel chair (1).”

See more of Michael’s work at cadenceandco.com.au.

6 “It’s a story of limestone and terracotta glowing in the Mediterranean sun,” says Michael of Can Lis.

2 This Bower Street project by Cadence & Co in Sydney’s Manly saw a tired room transformed into a second living space.

5 An array of ceramic tableware on display at Planet in Sydney.

Croissants and more are on offer at Rollers Bakehouse in Manly.

3 Angelucci in Melbourne.

1 Fritz Hansen ‘Series 7’ swivel chair in essential leather, $1188, Cult. ‘Ritratto di un santo’, 2019, artwork by Sergio Fiorentino, sergiofiorentino.it.

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4 ‘Frances’ bust, $49.95, and ‘Icarus’ bust, $99, Temple & Webster.

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