In a remarkable achievement, Orsini Atelier Space has emerged triumphant in the 2023 RED Retail Design Excellence awards, clinching the prestigious accolade in the Fashion and Accessories category. Not stopping there, the atelier also secured the esteemed Laminex Finishes Selection award, a testament to its commitment to elevated aesthetics and innovative design. And finally, to top the year off, the beautiful space won the Resene Total Colour Awards for 2023.
The Orsini atelier space, designed by Kate Pilot and Natalia Glucina of Kanat Studio, expanded the footprint of the existing boutique in Auckland’s Parnell.
The space is dedicated to Orsini Fine Jewellery director Sarah Hutchings’ custom jewellery design and engagement rings. It was created with the understanding that designing a special piece of jewellery is an intimate process. Now clients can meet with Hutchings in a warm and welcoming environment that prioritises privacy and exclusivity.
With the room boasting a bar space and a lounge area, clients are made to feel at ease – especially those who may be feeling vulnerable in the lead-up to asking a rather big question. Like the jewellery it holds, the atelier space’s Italian influence is evident throughout.
“We have been particularly inspired by my travels and what I’ve loved when I’ve been in Europe,” says Hutchings.
For example, the room calls to mind the island of Capri in a number of ways. The beautiful Villa San Michele is referenced in the space’s dado rails, archways and creamy walls, while the island’s coast is hinted at with plastered plinths reminiscent of limestone, and a pale green rug the colour of the shallows at a pebbled beach. Other Italian-inspired highlights include marble detailing, a central Sapele timber plinth that plays upon the lines, finish and craftsmanship of the classic Riva boats that cruise through Venice, and a large bespoke wall light created with Murano-inspired glass panels. A light colour palette and minimal decoration allow the jewellery to shine, while also creating an uplifting ambiance.
By sharing Italian design principles with the pieces on display, the new atelier space helps to highlight what makes Orsini’s jewellery unique. “It’s been exciting that people can now have a sense that the jewellery is a little bit different from what you get locally,” Hutchings says.
Always up to date with trends out of Europe, Hutchings has returned from Italy this year after being inspired in her future jewellery design, and her beautiful atelier.
