Porcelain Bear

Isn’t this just the coolest name for a porcelain company? But it wasn’t just the name that drew me to in. Their modern take on an age-old craft combined with some fabulous designs are what really did it. And the name, well, that was just the gravy on top! Allow me to tell you a little more about them. Gregory Bonasera and Anthony Raymond are taking the fine art of porcelain to a whole new level with their Melbourne-based studio and showroom Porcelain Bear. Porcelain is one of the oldest fine materials in the world, the art and craft of it reaching back centuries in Asia. And throughout the years, it has maintained its place as one of the most sought after materials for the home.

The partners began collaborating together in 2010, and have since grown their workshop to fit the needs of their ever expanding list of special clientele. While everything is hand-made, still using the over 300-year old method of slip-casting, they have found ways to incorporate new, edgy design elements. “Our studio is a place for us to play with our material and our craft,” says Gregory and Anthony, where they are able to “experiment and create new expressions from this most traditional of trades.”

And experiment they certainly have! From more traditional subway tiles, to beautifully minimal brass lighting fixtures, and of course, their mascot figurine (the porcelain bear, of course!) they are constantly pushing their craft into the avant garde of contemporary design.

I just love how playful pieces like the porcelain deer heads are, mixed with the very sleek, serious lighting, like their newest Acrobat series. But whether it’s utilitarian tiling, or decorative objets, they truly have a unique style that is present in everything they do! When I finally make it over to Melbourne, I will be sure to pay this lovely showroom a visit.