We spent a lovely Saturday afternoon in Redfern on the weekend. This hood is going from strength to strength! Regent Street is gradually becoming a homeware & design store mecca for those who love their retro elements with a dash of contemporary.

Finishing Touches Restoration - run by Allan & Linda Graham- and Rudi Rocket arrived in the late 90's introducing mid 20th century design to the strip. It's a family affair with Graham & Graham Design owned and operated by Matthew and his wife Benny just a few doors down from his Mum & Dad. G&G specialise in mid 20th century design, furniture, ceramics, lighting and custom handmade lampshades. We had a lovely chat with Rudi too - that guy has some real stories to tell about the pieces in his store!

Then a couple of years ago the boys from Surry Hills Chee Soon & Fitzgerald bought & renovated a terrace on the other side of the road. Known for their love of MARIMEKKO fabrics, a diverse range of fine ceramics from around the world and of course Bryan's collection of vintage glass pieces. The latest arrival is the very well-stocked The DEA Store - Delicate Eye Area - owned & operated by Karin - ex-Fratelli Fresh homewares stores. Karin has a great eye for the best in beautiful & practical kitchen ceramics (both local & imported brands), exclusive textiles from local artist Sally Campbell Hand Made Textiles NZ Men's skincare range Triumph & Disaster, quirky succulents in copper pots and many more design treats.

And if you need a sugar hit during your design store wander check out Ciccone & Sons gelato & coffee store right smack in the middle of all this fabulous-ness! With new flavours every week this place is definitely a local favourite after only 3 months with both the adults and the kids. Everyone we spoke to loved their product and the boys friendly service.

Move over Messina!

So next time you need a design hit maybe Regent Street, Redfern should be your prime destination

Go the Fern!