Terrariums have gained a resurgence of sorts over the past two years, with beautifully crafted mini landscapes popping up inside all manner of glass receptacles. The most recent take on terrarium design that has caught my eye is from a brand new Melbourne based business, named RAW. Reinterpreting the more traditional moss laden terrarium, freelance graphic design Caitlin Wynne instead creates sandy beach terrariums suspended in traditional hand knotted macrame hangers.
Caitlin has graphic design running in her blood. Her grandfather was also a graphic designer and sign writer, and her own passion was ignited after completing her degree in Communication design and living in Denmark for 4 years. There, she embraced the Danes eco friendly way of life, got involved in the craft of macrame and upon her return to Australia decided to combine her love of all things knotty, sustainable and beachy to create the beachy terrariums.
Caitlin is one lovely lass, and was ever so gracious to be featured on State of Green. She graciously shared with us a little more about her brand new business;
1. What inspired you to launch Studio Raw and make beachy terrariums? I’m one of those people who have always had a passion for both handcraft and the outdoors, however this passion exploded during my 4 years of living in Copenhagen, Denmark. Denmark is one of the greatest Eco-Friendly nations in the world and to them, it is just a way of life. This quickly became my way of life and fuelled my passion. Whilst in Copenhagen, I also learnt (amongst many other handcrafts) the art of Macramé. When moving back to Melbourne I decided to combine my skill in Macramé with my love for the garden and a very ingrained love for the beach. My Macramé Beach Terrarium Hangers were born. I originally started making these for my friends and family but then began receiving requests for these pieces and decided to open RAW.
2. How do you care for the terrariums to ensure they last? Each Beach Terrarium is made up of Coral, Shells, Sand and Air Plants. The air plants are amazingly easy to care for as they use moisture and nutrients from the air around them to stay alive. To maintain perfect health and growth of each air plant it is best to spray the plant with water once a
week and give them good (but not direct) sunlight.
3. What challenges do you face when making terrariums? No two beach terrariums I create are the same. Each one is very unique and there is a great choice of air plants and gorgeous shells available. On the other hand, obtaining beautiful coral isn’t easy (especially living in Melbourne). Coral is really the charm and vibrance of a beach terrarium and in Australia coral is very special. Luckily my love for the beach and the underwater world has lead me to exploring Australia and has helped me acquire a great range of beautiful coral from the Australian shores. I’m very proud of my coral collection and love that I can send each of these well travelled corals on a journey to a new home.
4. Can you share with us what we might expect to see from StudioRaw in the future? I really hope for RAW to spread across Melbourne and to bring a little piece of beach, garden and vintage design into the homes of Australia. I will continue to expand my beach terrariums and macramés with new designs, materials and ideas.
5. Share with us your easy eco living tip: Fill your home with gorgeous greenery so that you fill your home with clean fresh air.
