Modern MUSE

Tamsin Johnson brings her trademark insouciance as the glamorous influence behind the P. Johnson Femme brand and creator of its first ready-to-wear boutique in Sydney's Paddington

WHAT WERE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR SPACE, AND WHAT INITIALLY APPEALED ABOUT THE SITE?

Like all the P. Johnson stores, the new P. Johnson Femme space needed the same homely warmth and sense of privacy. Our ambition was to build a distinctly mature look and feel, something ‘established’ in sensation. Our business is 14 years old now, and needs to reflect that confidence to a new female client. The richness of colour and the finer details of vintage and antique pieces reflect the client experience, which is something slower and considered. A rather sweet terrace in Paddington seemed like the right idea for this.

WHAT DID THE ALTERATIONS ENTAIL?

No quantum structural alterations were required, but I made significant surface and finish renovations. A stainless-steel and acrylic stair railing is a sharp contrast to the more classical and ornate scagliola paint-worked walls. The mirrored ceiling doubles the space and adds some freshness back to the otherwise richly detailed classicism.

WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT FOR THE SPACE?

My aim was to create something powerful and strong that feels as if it has been around for a long time rather than a gallery-like and conventional (or fashionable) retail space. I wanted some lavish intensity without pastiche. I wanted it to feel homely, private yet unexpected.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT WORKING WITH P. JOHNSON?