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SITTING DOWN WITH OUR REDDIE FOUNDER
Nov 25, 2020
Written by CAROLINE MILTON

SITTING DOWN WITH OUR REDDIE FOUNDER

Caroline Olah

Founder/Creative Director of REDDIE

We sat down with Australian Furniture Designer, Caroline Olah, and asked her to share with us her thoughts and experiences with being a furniture designer and business owner.

Grab a cuppa and get comfy!

Tell us a bit about your background – What path originally led you to furniture design and manufacturing, and to ultimately building the REDDIE brand?

Funnily enough, I never in my life thought I would be a furniture designer! I started as an interior architect in Sydney after graduating from UNSW, then went on to work in Dubai, New York and Hong Kong. The initial seed for REDDIE began when I was working on a 12 story building project. The timeline was so tight, and I needed to find similar furniture pieces for each floor, just in different sizes and materials. There was no time to customise new pieces and no brand had the flexibility to customise existing pieces. I really just wanted to find well designed, simple pieces that I could tailor, but I couldn't...so I thought f*ck it, why don't I create a brand that does!

What were some challenges, if any, that you faced when building REDDIE?

The hardest part was finding a factory that was willing to customise each order, which was impossible. So much so that we ended up building our own. I was also pregnant with my first child during the search, so driving from factory to factory and getting rejected was not pleasant! But looking back now, that was easy in comparison to trying to get work done in the factory with 2 kids in tow!

Image 1 & 2: Caroline at the factory in Indonesia with the team (spot the kids!)

Why did you choose Indonesia for manufacturing? Tell us a bit about your factory?

We chose Indonesia because of the craftsmanship. There are whole towns in Indonesia dedicated to furniture production, with communities of talented craftsmen in all aspects of furniture making. Andrew (my other half/biz partner) and I are both half Australian and also half Indonesian, we speak the language and we understand the culture so it was a perfect fit. Being based in Sydney with our largest customer base in Australia meant that it was also a short plane ride away!

We initially started with a few carpenters and now have grown to a team of over 50, comprising of carpenters, blacksmiths, managers etc. The growth of our factory has been an organic process with a lot of lessons learnt along the way. Now the factory feels like home and we love bringing our children there.

Image 1 & 2: The REDDIE team in Indonesia

You are a big advocate for being transparent about where you make your products, particularly in Asia. Why do you feel strongly about this?

I get disappointed when brands who make exquisite products in Asia don't openly disclose where their products are made in fear of the public perceiving it as bad quality. This perpetuates the myth that Asian made is bad quality, which is 100% BS. There are incredible craftsmen in Europe, Australia AND Asia, and the people who make these products deserve to be acknowledged. The world already feels so divided right now and if you are working with other countries you should be open about it.

Image 1: Andrew & Caroline's son Eddie with the factory community's children

Image 2: The beautiful Central Java town where REDDIE's factory is based

Tell us about your design style?

I have a minimalist style with a love for mid-century modern design. Before REDDIE, my apartment was filled with Brooklyn vintage furniture from the '60s. So my designs can be described as minimal architecture meets mid-century details. It was very serendipitous when we found a team of craftsmen in Indonesia trained in traditional Danish woodworking. They taught me a lot about traditional furniture production and helped me take the pieces to the next level. We also like to acknowledge the materials and techniques used in Javanese furniture design by using local materials such as rattan, which adds an extra layer of richness. To me, good design is functional, not fussy and makes you look twice!

Image 1: JAY RATTAN CHAIR

Image 2: WILLY CAGE DINING TABLE

Does your architectural background influence your work? If so, how?

Definitely! I think every architect and interior designer should get into furniture as we understand the environment in which it is used. I approach furniture from the client-side. I start with a brief, often by listening to a client. For example, a client once said to me, "I would love a residential looking workstation" So, I then started sketching ideas and thinking about every aspect, 'How would I use it, could it fit into several styles of spaces, is it functional, will it enhance the way I work, can I customise it to suit my needs' and so forth. This then led to the creation of the NCW Workstation. I don't design for my ego, it's not about me it's about making the best possible functional product for a customer.

Image 1: DARLINGHURST LIVE/WORK TERRACE - NCW workstation. Designer: Delaunay Design

Image 2: GLORIETTA SYDNEY - Milton Stool. Designer: Alexander & Co

You work with a lot of architect and design studios on commercial projects - Tell us a bit about that.

When we launched it was the design community that specified our products from day 1. I guess since I was solving a problem that I faced as a designer, our products worked well as they could be tailored to suit each project. We have been fortunate to work on several awesome fit-outs for companies such as Google, WeWork, and many other hotel and restaurant projects.

What does being a conscious brand mean to you?

It means looking after people and the environment as much as we possibly can. We built an awesome team both in Australia and Indonesia who are all like family now, so we want to look after them. If they're not having the best time working for us then what's the point?

We made a conscious decision to not mass produce, we make to order. We also use certified hardwoods and buy entire logs instead of pre-cut planks, so we can have maximum use of the tree. We make handcrafted homewares pieces with our wood off-cuts and are always looking for different ways to use our waste.

Left Image: Caroline in Central Java

Right Image: Andrew and Caroline's daughter Jay with one of REDDIE's factory managers, Pak Catur

How has COVID impacted Reddie? What has allowed you to cope with the current situation?

It has been challenging - a large portion of our business was working on commercial projects and we were also about to expand to the US to service a commercial client which had paused when COVID hit. This however allowed us to go back to our roots of giving individuals the chance to tailor our products. Since everyone is spending more time at home, our residential side of the business has taken off, which we previously had little time to push. And now we are adding several new home items such as sofas and beds. It's been nice to work with more clients locally in Australia. Australians have such good taste and an eye for design.

What's next for Reddie? Can you share with us some of your visions and goals?

We want to grow organically and sustainably, and our aim is to be a complete one-stop-shop for your home.

New products on the horizon are sofas! I've been dreaming up some awesome cusomisable sofas with the team, and cant wait to share them with everyone.

Ultimately the best way to cope in business in this climate is to not be so hard on yourself, what we're experiencing is not normal and you need to adjust expectations.

Getting real...

What's something you regret?
Not following my gut, and doing that thing I felt I 'should' do.

What are some values you live by?
Honesty and clear communication, always.

Your favourite item?
My Suzy Desk, the first piece we made. I've had people try to buy it... it's not going anywhere!

What's one thing other people may not know about you?
I HATE flying. Despite having to go to Indonesia all the time, flying was my biggest fear. So a year of no flying has been the upside of a difficult year.

What's something that you're embarrassed to like?
Celebrity gossip... I can't look away ... not quite on-brand when trying to be a high brow furniture designer!

What's it like working with your husband?
The worst - Just kidding! I really love it. We get to spend the day together and then get to go home and focus on the kids. It is sometimes hard to switch off the business partner relationship after hours though, but we are working to get better at that!

For more information contact:
info@reddie.co

Projects by Reddie
Nov 21, 2020
Written by

Projects by Reddie

At Reddie we love seeing how our pieces fit into various spaces, whether that be homes, work spaces or hospitality and retail venues.

We have had the great privilege of working on many incredible projects with extremely talented and creative people.

Here's a sneak peak into a few of our favourites!

DARLINGHURST LIVE/WORK TERRACE
Designer: Delaunay Design

(NCW Workstation with Rattan & Perforated Metal Screen Dividers)

(Bob Coffee Table Round)

GLORIETTA SYDNEY
Designer: Alexander & Co

(Milton Bar Stool Round)

(Outdoor Milton Bar Stool Round)

WEWORK PERTH
Designer: WeWork

(Bob Hot Desk)

(Custom Drum Table)

(Bob Day Bed & Bob Pedestal Round Table)

SYDNEY HOME
Designer: Claudia Stephenson

(Vinny Jay Rattan Chair in Custom Fabric)

(Suzy Shelving Unit)

To view more Reddie projects, please click here

Getting Creative
Aug 05, 2020
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Getting Creative

The Reddie team have been working on some exciting new designs. We also love when our clients get creative when customising our products.

We've had the chance to make some really fun pieces throughout the year so far and thought we would share them with you.

NEW WORKPLACE PRODUCTS

NCW STORAGE UNIT WITH PLANTER BOX

What's a 2020 office space without some greenery? Or if you're currently WFH, you might be asking, what even is an office space anymore?

We added a Planter Box to our NCW Storage Unit, made with Lacquered Solid Teak Wood and Perforated/Powdercoated Metal Doors - This one is for all you plant lovers!

NCW DESK DRAWER PEDESTAL WITH SEAT

Our much loved NCW Desk Drawer Pedestal has had a mini makeover - this bad boy has a seating option now! This style is also made with Perforated/Powdercoated Metal and Lacquered Solid Teak Wood drawers.

Fits nice and neatly under any workstation/desk and can double up as an extra seating option for when your fellow team member pops by (or partner, housemate or child).

CLIENT CUSTOMISED PRODUCTS

VINNY MEDIA CABINET

We love when our customers get creative and choose to customise in bold colours.

Our Vinny Media Cabinet featuring Black Solid Teak Wood and Blue Perforated/Powdercoated Metal doors created a really fun look. Definitely a show stopper.

NCW STORAGE UNIT

WITH 3 DOORS

Everyone needs storage, but not everyones needs are the same. Luckily we can customise storage units to be bigger or smaller to suit your space and needs perfectly - "Design that Fits!"

Our customer needed a 3 door NCW Storage Unit and that's exactly what we made.

SUZY RATTAN BUFFET STORAGE UNIT

WITH 6 DOORS

Another storage unit upsize, except this one was our biggest yet. Our customer wanted a grand storage piece to cater to their space and needs.

Creating a 6 door Suzy Rattan Storage Unit was challenging but we made it happen and could not be happier with the outcome. Solid Black Teak Wood with beautifully Handwoven Rattan Doors are always a delight in any space.

BOB COFFEE TABLE SQUARE

You can never go wrong with an earthy choice. Our gorgeous Forest Green Indian Marble paired with Natural Solid Teak Wood is one of our favourite looks.

WILLY CAGE TABLE ROUND

An all black piece is always a classic option. We loved this black on black Round Willy Caged Table customised by our client who chose a Black Solid Teak Wood top and a Black Powdercoated Metal base.

We have many more exciting pieces in the works - so stay tuned!

Australia's Bushfires
Jul 30, 2020
Written by

Australia's Bushfires

It was a rough start to the new year for our beautiful country.

Our founders Caroline and Andrew Olah were caught up in the South Coast fires on New Years Eve. Their experience has not only changed them forever, but has also changed Reddie as a brand. We will always continue to prioritise thought and action towards making better change for our planet.

We asked Caroline and Andrew to share their story.

"We spent the past holiday season at Broulee on the South Coast with our two children and extended family. Andrew has family in Broulee and it has always been our ultimate holiday spot. Broulee has an incredible community, and the days are always filled with street cricket, blue skies and beach days. Every Aussie's perfect summer."

"Before travelling down to Broulee, we were aware that there were fires nearby, but were always told that the fires would never get close to the beach. As we checked the warnings, we were given the all clear and made the decision to still go ahead with our trip.

When arriving on Christmas day, the air was smokier than Sydney and whilst we were a little concerned, everyone tried to stay positive and make the most of each day - so beach days and cricket continued as planned. It was definitely still hard to ignore, especially when we had heard stories from local volunteer firefighters. Burnt leaves falling from the sky didn't help the situation either."

"When we woke up on New Years Eve to a pinkish-red sky and intense smell of smoke, we knew something was wrong. The smoke alarms started going off in the house every other minute that we actually had to unplug them. Everyone started to get more concerned, and neighbours began to gather on the street to work out what to do and where to go. There was a lot of confusion, to say the least."

"The sky became darker and darker that it literally felt like sunset. It wasn't long before the power cut off, along with the internet and phone signal, and that's when we knew the fire was coming right towards us. We found out it was too late to leave as the fires were moving too rapidly. So, our only option was to evacuate to the beach. We packed our bags and took only the essentials. It broke our hearts when we had to wet towels and tie them over the faces of our 5 and 2-year-old, telling them to close their eyes when their eyes started to water from all the smoke."

"Everyone was unusually calm and I think that's because we didn't know how huge and damaging the fire coming towards us was. None of us had experienced anything close to this whilst growing up in Australia, ever.

By the time we arrived at the beach, the sky turned from a light red to grey, and then to pitch black. As the minutes ticked by, we sat on the beach and watched the fire get closer and closer. We all thought that the fires were far away, but then we started to see flames. That's when we spotted our heroic aerial fire fighters, dumping water over the fires near us from water helicopters."

"One thing that you don't realise when sitting in front of a campfire is the extent of the actual fire itself, but when a campfire is kilometres wide and meters high, its f*cking hot. It had to have been over 50 degrees.

The beach started filling up with people really quickly. The caravan park right next to the beach also evacuated and we all braced for the worst.

We were then surprised by a southerly cold front pushing the flames in the other direction. This saved most of the houses and beach area in Broulee. Although we were lucky, this meant that the fire was pushed to the north and were devastating the northern regions. We could only hope that no lives or homes were lost."

"The community in Broulee are truly amazing - in the hours afterwards, everyone filled the streets, riding their bikes to check on neighbours. Andrew and a group of boys also went to help put out fires at the local Broulee High School as the fire fighters were under-resourced.

That night on New Year's Eve we were all so exhausted, but we managed to get together at our families' house, drinking wine and thinking back on the experience amongst candlelight, as there was still no power.

Getting home the next day was challenging to say the least. We all realised how dependent we were of the internet, as our phone service and online navigation tools were all linked to the internet - which we were unable to access.

We had to find an old map to work out how to get home. Even our road closure updates were only informed to us through word of mouth. I remembered how I had previously made fun of my father for bringing a torch and radio on the trip, calling him old school, but we ended up relying on those items the most - now I will never travel without them!

Our trip back home took 30 hours with a stopover at Milton, where our friend took in all 10 of us for the night as we we're all stuck due to the road closures.

When compared to those who have lost their lives, and families who have lost their homes, we were definitely the lucky ones. This experience will forever stay with us and we will always remember and think of those who have been through much worse. We urge people to do what they can to help those affected, whether that may be through donating what you can, or providing assistance in any way that you can. Australia needs your help."

- Caroline Olah

Reddie has made donation's to assist with Australia's Bushfires, and we hope to continue supporting those affected in every way possible.

Reddie's Making Changes

"As business owners and parents this experience has changed us."
- Caroline Olah At Reddie, environmental sustainability and ethical practices have always been at the heart of our business. Our philosophy evolved from our awareness of the negative environmental impacts brought upon by mass production. Due to these impacts, Reddie only makes to order, and does not mass produce.

We also only use plantation grown teak wood and buy entire logs to minimise wastage (many furniture manufacturers only buy sawn timber, which results in a lot of waste). All our off-cuts are up-cycled into handcrafted homeware pieces or donated to local communities. But we want to do more.

Since the bushfires:

We are now looking to implement reclaimed timber options, making use of unused timber in the region.
Our factory is also currently developing a plastics recycling machine so we can up-cycle ocean plastic into accessories.
We are also looking over all our processes and prioritising minimal waste.

We hope to inspire others to also make small changes. Together we can make big changes.

Reddie for Summer?
Jul 29, 2020
Written by

Reddie for Summer?

Waiting on summer to come around? Well, it's almost that time of year again where the weather warms up and we'd rather spend our time outdoors. Why not make the outdoors that little bit more inviting?

At Reddie, we're all about that. We want you to enjoy the summer and really make the most of it in your space. Wherever that is. That's why we have a diverse range of outdoor pieces that can be customised to suit your space and style.

Have a small space? We've got you covered. Have a large space? We've also got you covered.

Our Top Picks

Suzy Outdoor Sun Lounger

The perfect way to spend summer is lazing around with Suzy the Outdoor Sun Lounger. We have a feeling that you'll be great friends in no time. She's the outdoor sun lounger/daybed you've always wanted. You can easily adjust her height to switch her up from a sun lounger to a daybed. She also has two cute little wheels on her, so moving her around will be no trouble at all.

All you need to do now, is customise her with our multiple powder coat options to suit your aesthetic (and if you want, add in one of our outdoor sun lounger cushions too), and you can have a great old lounge about.

Bob Outdoor Pedestal Table

We're here to turn simple into interesting. We've added a twist to the ordinary round pedestal outdoor table. With two different options - you cant go wrong.

Our first style (left) has a table top and base made up of multiple triangular solid teak pieces, fixed to a powder coated stainless steel frame. Our second style (right) has a table top made up of perforated steel, fixed to a powder coated, stainless steel frame and base - bringing industrial outdoors. These outdoor pedestal tables add a whole lot of edge and personality to any outdoor space, whilst still keeping it nice and simple. They are perfect for a balcony or even a cafe courtyard!

You can customise both these outdoor pedestal tables top to bottom with multiple size and powder coat options, to suit you and your space.

Suzy Rectangular Bench

Whats a better compliment to an outdoor dining table than an outdoor bench. This sleek, simple and functional bench is made with a slatted teak wood top, and a powder-coated stainless steel metal frame. Benches are a super functional option to easily increase seat numbers, whilst keeping your space clean and simple. They also look great on their own!

And as usual, you can customise the Suzy Rectangular Bench with multiple size and powder coat options.

Bob Outdoor Dining Table

Bob here is exactly what you see, an unapologetically simple rectangular outdoor dining table with premium solid teak wood slats and a powder coated stainless steel base. With multiple size options and suited to fit various size ranges, Bob is designed to be completely minimal, functional and durable.

Pair this guy with a few Suzy outdoor chairs and/or bench, and you've got an awesome spot for your next outdoor gathering! And if you're in hospitality, your customers will love the space this guy will create.

Customise the Bob Outdoor Dining Table top to bottom with multiple size and powder coat options - now that's the only thing you'll probably need to think about.

Suzy Outdoor Stackable Arm Chair

So slick and so smooth. One of our favourite outdoor chairs is Suzy over here. She's that outdoor stackable arm chair that you need to introduce to all your guests on Friday night. Made with a slatted teak seat and back, and a stainless steal metal frame, you'll never have to worry about her being out of style. Her seat and back have a hand-carved curve to ensure you and you guests are treated with maximum comfort.

She's perfect for either a family backyard or as outdoor seating for a cafe bar, restaurant or hotel. Just customise her top to bottom with multiple powder coat options to suit your space and style.

All products in our indoor range can be made to suit the outdoors as well.

NCW: Non-Corporate Workstation
Jul 24, 2020
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NCW: Non-Corporate Workstation

By now, we're hoping most of you have heard something about our workstation - whether you came to our NCW Launch Party or if you have been keeping up with us on Instagram (@reddiedesign).

Our NCW Launch Party last year was awesome, so thank you to everyone who came to celebrate with us! We hope you had just as much fun as we did. Our girl NCW definitely got a lot of love, which we are so happy about!

For those who didn't get to make it, this update is especially for you! And for those who did, here's some more information on our workstation to keep you in the loop and up to date.

About NCW

NCW is all about having a little fun at work. She’s unapologetically simple and caters for the modern office. Customise her by your choice of laminate/wood tops, frame colours and your pick of a rattan or perforated metal divider. She's that modern workstation that will seamlessly fit into your work space.

Cable Management

We created the NCW with all small things in mind - we know how annoying the wire situation can get. So, we’ve allowed for cabling to run through the legs to keep everything nice and clean, with no tripping or tangling involved! Super easy and super functional.

Cable Tray

We've also given the important stuff a little more attention. The much loved cable tray is made from perforated metal, so it isn't long forgotten. Including an integrated power box is an option too.

This gorgeous birds eye shot captures the angles we created for the cut out. Detail is everything.

Sizing

The NCW was created with both small and large spaces in mind. With 3 different size ranges, you'll have no issues trying to make the NCW work into your space. Our sizing options are as listed below:

Desks *750h
1200w x 600d / 1500w x 750d / 1800w x 900d

Dividers
250h / 350h

Starts from $850 per unit excl. GST
contact info@reddie.co for pricing

Note: Configuration options range from single to clusters of 6.

And just like all our other products, the NCW is customisable by material and colour. View our many options below:

NCW Setting

The fun doesn't stop at customisation. There are also many different settings that can be created with the NCW. Same parts, different settings. You are only limited by you're imagination.

Here are some of our favourite options:

Now, it's just up to you to get creative!

NCW, from where you'd rather work.

The Java Collection
Jul 22, 2020
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The Java Collection

Behind the Collection

Central Java, Indonesia: Home to our factory, incredibly talented craftsman and our quality materials. During one of our recent visits to Java, we were inspired by all of the natural beauty that surrounded us.

The rich greenery, the sandy coloured streets and the burnt orange tones that seep through the teak wood. The essence of all this natural beauty evoked our inspiration for our new collection - the "Java Collection" - our ode to the beautiful region that is the birthplace of all of our products.

Our collection upholds attention to the beautiful materials found in the region, including Solid Teak Wood, Hand Woven Rattan and a rich, rare Forest Green Marble that we have used for the top of our gorgeous dining table.

Suzy Rattan Buffet Unit

Suzy the Rattan Buffet Unit was designed with great love. She's built with solid teak and hand woven rattan door fronts, creating a beautiful facade to a simple storage solution. She also has 4 useful compartments with an adjustable shelf each. She' s a great size and a big show off.

Willy Cage Dining Table

Willy over here is definitely going to be the topic of conversation over dinner. He's that mid-century style round dining table that those of you who appreciate a statement piece dream of. The table features a gorgeous Indian Rain Forest Green stone, brought to life with hues of green, brown, and orange, creating a striking colour way. His base features a strong yet elegant wire frame created by an architectural series of rods welded to a rounded plinth, wrapped around a circular solid teak wood piece.

Vinny Jay Rattan Chair

Our ever so popular Vinny the Jay Rattan Chair is a beautifully handcrafted rattan and solid teak dining chair, with gorgeous angles structuring his arms and legs. He features 2 layers of rattan on all sides and is cushioned with Italian leather, with a removable back cushion.

Rosie Rattan Cantilevered Chair

With the popularity of our Vinny Jay Rattan Club chair, we needed to compliment him with a cantilevered version. Rosie the Rattan Cantilevered Chair features a double sided woven rattan back and a fabric cushion seat that is supported by a stainless steel cantilevered base.

The ode to our birth place, Java. Bringing the beauty of Java to you.

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