Akin to its name, Aube Nouvelle is a new dawn for the retail experience as it offers a model of slow design and sustainability.
Ms Ford said the concept behind her store was ‘about the story behind each piece, the footprint it leaves’.
‘Slow design is a philosophy of thoughtfulness; such as responsible, sustainable production methods and sourcing of materials.
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READ NOW‘Each company I use has that philosophy.’
Ms Ford said she set the shop up so it had a sense of serenity and calmness for clients.
‘With teaching workshops, I needed a space that is conducive to that sense.’
Ms Ford sources her products from local Australian artists, designers and overseas businesses with a shared view on sustainable business practices.
‘Having grandchildren, it made me aware of how important sustainability is,’ she said. ‘It is about educating the consumer into making sustainable choices.’
The shop offers a range of items, from artworks, organic skin products to handmade clothing, although with a twist; workshops are on offer to create your own handmade items using organically grown cottons and yarns.
‘On Fridays we have a knitting and crochet social class that meets every Friday,’ Ms Ford said
‘Students are encouraged to bring their UFOs ” unfinished kits ” and work on them together.’