With over 35 years’ experience, George Marbo is a master craftsman. His namesake label Marbo Shirt offers the gentlemen of Sydney a bespoke tailoring service which produces crisp, well-constructed dress shirts. The refurbished store is a retail space and working studio that is quietly confident, using a textural palette of modest finishes.

The brief was to refresh the existing heritage space with a relatively small budget. It was identified the tenancy provided little in terms of client engagement or retail experience. The inner workings of the business were mostly hidden in the messy back of house area, including an industrial rack of beautiful Italian fabrics. The challenge was to move away from this traditional approach and showcase the process of garment construction.

The floor plan is simplified, offering a series of functional, well-detailed joinery pieces. A luxe, crushed linen curtain is strategically placed to reveal a portion of the large fabric rolls, creating a focal point. Clients are now invited to this area to browse the selection. In the Change Room, a large storage cupboard is designed in lieu of a dividing wall. It feels more like a wardrobe space that is visible from the mall when vacant.

The entire tenancy is utilised as front of house and the aesthetic is a balance between traditional, contemporary and perfectly unpolished. George can showcase his production and invite clients to browse beyond the front counter for a more inclusive, engaging experience. The interior palette captures and translates the authenticity and honesty of Marbo Shirt. While the product is impeccable in quality, it is not pretentious. The store feels like an artist’s studio, with a moody yet homely ambience.

RECOGNITION: 2018 Interior Design Excellence Awards (Australia) - Workplace Category - Shortlisted