Growing a business
JOSEPHINE BLUNCK lets us into her world of beautiful furniture and accessories in her new showroom at Portsdown.
Ten years ago, arriving as a new expat, Josephine just couldn’t find pieces that inspired her. Fast-forward to 2019, and she has just opened her first dedicated showroom (opposite Tanglin Trust School), from what began as a hobby in her home. The beautiful black-and-white building that houses her retail store is perfect for the Hacienda Blue brand: traditionally made but with a modern finish.
Dominating a very niche market, the stunning bone-inlay and mother-of-pearl-inlay pieces are meticulously designed by Josephine and created by artisans in India. “I spend most of my life travelling between these small, family-owned workshops. It still amazes me how this incredibly detailed skill has been passed down through the generations. There are no big factories and the artisans work in a very sustainable manner.”
As we wander around the showroom, I’m absorbing Josephine’s infectious Aussie-ness and passion for her business. The pieces here are stunning and I can’t help but touch and wonder where I can find room in my home for some of them.
Designed and custom-made
From dining tables to night stands, to sideboards, chests of drawers, stools, trays, lamps and frames, the list of items available is only as limited as your imagination. Josephine is proud of the customisation aspect of the business. “Clients already come to us because they’re looking for something a little different, and this also means they often want something custom-designed. This is one of my favourite parts of my job: working with people to create and make something unique is truly wonderful.”
Having a good old nosey through the drawers (which contain some beautiful cashmere throws, also for sale), I’m also impressed by the workmanship. “When you see how each piece is painstakingly handmade with such skill and knowledge, you can understand why our pieces last and how you just can’t imitate their quality.”
The new Hacienda Blue showroom is now open. Make an appointment to have a look – but be warned, every item is Insta-worthy!
Hacienda Blue
17 Woking Road (by appointment only)
9866 1024 | haciendablue.com
Want more interior inspiration? See our Homes section!
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This article first appeared in the April 2019 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!
