Natalie Rolt Headquarters by Archie Bolden

Natalie Rolt has been known for creating strikingly contemporary and feminine garments since its doors first opened in 2012. Each piece is designed and made in Western Australia, supporting local makers and allowing the label to offer a bespoke service to clients. The distinctive collection encompasses gowns and dresses through to separates that can be mixed and matched for a range of occasions.

The brand’s deep appreciation for craftsmanship has been carried through to their recently completed headquarters in Subiaco, Western Australia, where design and manufacturing sit alongside the flagship boutique. This cohesive approach allows clients and the Natalie Rolt team to experience the entire production process, from early concepts to final dress fittings.

Interior firm Archie Bolden was engaged to bring Natalie Rolt’s vision of creating a space that celebrates design in all its forms to life. “The Natalie Rolt team came to us with a clear vision and thorough brief,” explains Hayley Richards, interior designer and director at Archie Bolden. “Clean lines, sculptural forms and minimalistic selections were top-of-mind aesthetically, while connectivity, storage and systematic flow were all key considerations from a functionality perspective.”

When approaching the brief, the design team’s goal was to translate the ethos of the Natalie Rolt brand into spatial form. This is centred on creating meaningful connections whilst celebrating beauty in simplicity. “We did this by honouring a refined finishes palette and exaggerating elements that allowed for a fluid spatial cohesion and a considered interaction between the interior and influx of natural light. Bathing the space entirely in white allowed the Natalie Rolt garments to hold the primary focus,” added Hayley.

One of the design features which aids the connection between the different functions within the space is a portal in the boutique, which overlooks the manufacturing studio–“fostering a relationship between the product and consumer, inviting the Natalie Rolt business ecosystem to partake in the theatre of a garment being created.” A private suite was also included to allow for greater intimacy for bridal fittings and private showings.

When it came to the furnishings, Archie Bolden saw an opportunity to create a sense of drama with carefully selected pieces. “The layout of the space required something that was fluid and artistic, but had the sculptural form to serve as a poised anchor, or a piece of art when not in use and purely on display. In terms of the finish, we required something that worked within the monochromatic scheme, yet had the textural intrigue to engage with the user. The Gogan collection from Moroso offered exactly this.”

Designed by Patricia Urquiola, the Gogan collection is inspired by, and takes its name from, stones in Japanese gardens that are rendered smooth over time. The inspiration is reflected in the sculptural form of the sofa and armchair, which are solid yet smooth in appearance.

First and foremost, Archie Bolden wanted to impart a space that was dedicated to creating meaningful connections both within the production process and between the client and brand. The serene interior that has been achieved successfully creates an evocative retail experience where design, craftsmanship and clients happily co-exist.