If you've been following the blog over the past year you will no doubt be familiar with the NZ-based online store Mister Mister. For those who are catching up and live locally, you should bookmark them right away. Specialising in luxury homeware sourced from around the world, they have recently brought on board a selection of the iconic Kubus range by renowned Danish brand by Lassen, and as exclusive NZ stockists, what better way to celebrate than with a giveaway?
First things first though, I thought it was about time I did a little Q&A to find out a bit more about the people behind Mister Mister. Partners of over eight years, and recently engaged, founders Richard Mayo and David Stone dedicate hours of their spare time to sourcing the very best products. David has kindly shared the rest of their story so far....
Can you tell us a bit about your backgrounds and the path led you to launching an online store?
We both have corporate day jobs, and run Mister Mister in our spare time. Richard works in Retail, and I work in Banking. We both love design and we were sick of trying to find design accents for the house but only finding things that were everywhere and much of a muchness. When we first started Mister Mister we thought it was going to be a walk in the park to find product, however this hasn’t been the case. We’ve spent hundreds if not thousands of hours looking for product that fits all of our criteria. We only stock product that we believe in, and would proudly show in our home.
How is the workload divided between the two of you?
Richard takes care of technical stuff, but we both do the day to day work together.
How would you describe your personal styles and how is this reflected in the products you stock?
We both have very differing senses of style however we both appreciate the finer things in life. We both appreciate minimalist style, obscure objects and European design. Richard is very easy going, where as I either love it or hate, which drives Richard crazy as I have a tendency to only like one out of fifty things he likes. I have a very eclectic taste, I love both and new, and I love incorporating the two together. I love it even more when a designer modernises something classical (hence we have three Kartel Bourgie lamps in the house). Richard loves colour, where as I’m more into monochrome with accents of colour.
What do you look for when seeking out new brands and product ranges?
We look to find product that isn’t already in New Zealand, or our personal must haves. We look for product that is made to a high standard. We look for quality, uniqueness - something that will make your friends jealous.
It's great to see that you stock several Scandinavian brands, including recent arrivals from By Lassen and Menu. What is it about these brands that you love?
We love the minimalist nature of them, how they can sit alone in a room and command presence, but can also be in a collection of products.
What would be your favourite product picks right now?
Richard’s favourite product is the Kubus Bowl (in which I keep catching him trying to sneak one in to the house to put on display). I love the Lee Broom Table Lamp and the Zuzunaga Throws. I love the throws for the weight and the luxury feel of the Italian merino wool.
Some great Christmas ideas would be the Gridy Mirror by Menu, Kosta Boda Bricks (tea light holder) & ibride Dinner Sets. We also now offer free gift wrapping!
What have been your most popular products to date?
The Nicole Porter Plates have been very popular and have been shown in Cuisine Magazine, & Air New Zealand’s inflight magazine Kia Ora. Laura Oakes has also been very popular. We’ve received feedback that people love the vibrant colours and the decoupage of imagery.
Do you travel often for work... trade shows, buying trips etc?
Not as yet – we have plans to travel to Masion & objet in Paris next year.
What inspires you.. the web, creatives etc?
We’re inspired by being different, and when we find something new that’s not already available in New Zealand.
Thank you David! And now for the fun part....
Mister Mister is giving away a Small Black by Lassen Kubus Bowl by (valued at $265) to one lucky reader!
Based on original sketches by Mogens Lassen, the Kubus Bowl features elements evocative of the Bauhaus school, one of Mogens Lassen’s primary inspirations. Produced in Denmark with a focus on high quality and solid craftsmanship, and the bowl is a natural extension of the iconic Kubus candleholder, designed by Mogens Lassen in 1962. The Kubus Bowl is suitable for home decoration year-round and can contain everything from spring blossoms to herbs, fruits, or your favourite candy.
To enter, follow these simple instructions:
- Like both the Mister Mister Facebook page and The Design Chaser Facebook page.
- Email me at enter@thedesignchaser.com with Mister Mister in the subject line.
- Include your full name in the email.
The competition is open to New Zealand residents only and will close on Wednesday, 5th of November at 8am. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced on the blog and Facebook page that day, and contacted via email to arrange shipping.
Update: This competition is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, Julie Joseph.
0 comments:
Post a Comment