Creative Collection: Viva Botanica

From Creating Textiles to Terrazzo, Sydney Maker Sarah Kalidis Embraces Her Love of Colour and Native Flora at Every Artistic Turn

- Kylie Jackes

THIS PAGE: In the Studio Onethirty shopfront, the ‘Perks of Being a Wildflower’ original acrylic takes centrestage above cushions in Lime, Teal Velvet and the ‘Paloma’ print, as well as a custom-made seat cushion in ‘Demi’. OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM

TOP LEFT: Sarah’s ‘My Country’ original acrylic on canvas hangs behind her; tools of Sarah’s trade – she paints whenever she gets the chance; the maker’s studio is filled with her creations, from bespoke stools to the ‘Protea Burst’ original acrylic on the wall; the statement-making Alpha terrazzo coffee table is topped with ceramics by local maker Renee Tofa.

AT A GLANCE

Who: Sarah Kalidis, Studio Onethirty. What she does: Creates art and designs Australian-made textiles, furnishings and furniture. She is also a lover of all things botanical. Where: Carss Park, NSW. Why she does it: “Creating is my happy place – it’s what I love to do. I hope to inspire my daughter, Anthea, to follow her dreams and find what makes her happy.” Visit: studioonethirty.com>

In primary school, Sarah Kalidis was known as the ‘colour queen’. “No matter what the homework or assignment, I always found a way to add a little picture or colour to it before handing it in to the teacher,” says Sarah. Sitting in her stunning shopfront Studio Onethirty in Sydney’s south, surrounded by bold textiles, art and custom furniture, it’s a crown she still holds.

Sarah is what many would describe as multitalented. A few steps away from her colourful store is her studio, where she single-handedly creates and designs stand-out homewares – from cushions to paintings and coffee tables.