A leading Australian designer brings a new take to our lobby installation in support of ReLove
If you enjoyed the recent lobby installation of delightfully stylish, incredibly comfy furniture from Sydney charity ReLove, then be sure to allow yourself some more time for a leisurely browse and to show your support, because a leading Australian interior designer, Alkimi, has refitted the space with their own take on how ReLove furniture can be reimagined.
ReLove’s mantra is Creating homes with kindness. Every week on average they support 25 Sydney families facing some of life’s toughest challenges. Among those ReLove helps are women and children impacted by domestic violence, people experiencing homelessness and re-entering society after incarceration.
In addition to raising awareness around ReLove’s work, every piece of furniture in the installation is available for sale, generating proceeds that go directly to fund their great work.
Collaborating to change lives
“ReLove’s help encompasses social and environmental impacts all in one,” says Kate Bisson, Alkimi’s Managing Director and curator of the new installation. “Families in crisis are invited into a safe and supportive environment where they can choose their own furnishings. This small act of choice helps restore dignity, comfort and control at a time when they need it most.”
Alkimi was first introduced to ReLove through an industry network. The relationship has blossomed over the years with collaboration in the design of ReLove’s retail space The Kirk and a number of community projects. Beyond design, the Alkimi team contribute to the ReLove cause through volunteer days, financial support and donating expertise through the Shine for Good initiative.
The ReLove story, since 2021
Interior design with real impact
For Alkimi, the ReLove installation is part of their broader mission to create interiors with substance and impact. “We want to transform spaces into experiences that consciously add value to the lives of all who cross our path,” says Kate. “Design isn’t just about efficiency and aesthetics, it’s about creating environments that foster wellbeing, connection and care. And through this collaboration with ReLove and International Towers, we prove that design can do much more than shape workplaces, it can help rebuild lives.”
“Working with International Towers has always been more of a collaboration than a traditional design engagement,” adds Kate, who has worked with us since before construction of the precinct was complete. “The International Towers commitment to giving back and supporting community aligns perfectly with our own values, so the ReLove cause is a perfect platform for us to do just that.”
Fabulous furniture for sale
“The goal of this installation is to raise awareness for ReLove while also raising funds,” explains Kate. “We wanted to select pieces that spark curiosity in a corporate lobby but also serve as beautiful, functional items for people’s homes. Every piece has a story and every piece is for sale.”
Among Kate’s personal favourites are the chartreuse sofa because it is “fun, dynamic and attention-grabbing”, and a sculptural outdoor chair which “quickly became a highlight” after being a late addition to the installation.
“If either of those two pieces don’t get purchased during the installation, I might buy them myself,” smiles Kate.
If you would like to shop the ReLove warehouse, give some of your furniture, give some of your time, or make a cash donation, visit the ReLove website.