On Thursday 4 September, The 69 O’Riordan Collective returned to Sydney under the theme ‘Future Future: Reflecting What’s Next’. 

The high anticipated event attracted 549 professionals in the architecture and design community, marking the first large spring gathering, managed by Niche Media. 

A collective of 13 brands, including About Space, Blu Dot, Casa Mia, Cosh Living, Cotswold Furniture, Coulisse, James Dunlop and Mokum, KE-ZU, Metz, New Age Veneers, The Textile Company and Zepel, collectively injected a special atmosphere into the commercial complexes with different food offerings and creations aligned with the ‘Future Future’ theme. 

About Space transformed the venue into a mysterious and yet curious place with a warm welcome through lights on the entry ramp and, with the help of haze machines, the hallway became the centre of attention. Learn more about About Space here. 

“The vibe was electric from the second you walked in, everything just felt elevated,” said Catherine de Meur Interiors director and design principal Cate Liedtke. “This is the kind of energy we are craving in our industry events – polished, buzzing and full of beautiful connections (and, let’s be honest, even better food and drinks!). It was good to catch up with familiar faces and meet new ones. More of this please!” 

The next showroom was James Dunlop and Mokum, where an oysters and seafood-inspired menu was served on the decking area. Surrounded by a sea of fabrics and textiles, the space set the scene for lively conversation. Learn more about James Dunlop and Mokum here. 

New Age Veneers, the latest addition to the collective, seized the opportunity to showcase its new collection, the NAVURBAN Earth™ range. Designed to inspire and crafted to last, it brings lasting luxury to residential, commercial and retail interiors, without compromise. Learn more about New Age Veneers here.

The upstairs car park area was converted into a cosy outdoor lounge by Blu Dot and Cosh Living with a barbecue on offer. Aperol Spritzes on arrival marked a celebratory welcome to spring. Read more about Blu Dot and Cosh Living here.

“Another incredible evening at the 69 O’Riordan St Collective event,” Studio LHD founder and Build Beautiful podcast creator, Linda Habak, said. “One building, 13 industry suppliers – each opening their doors with food, activities and genuine opportunities to connect. I’ve attended the past three years and last night was one of the best yet. A brilliant showcase of collaboration, community and creativity in action.” Learn more about Coulisse here.

Meanwhile, inside KE-ZU headquarters, the chair stacking competition was calling. KE-ZU co-owner Caron Grunschlag welcomed everyone into the showroom to discover the latest innovations. Learn more about KE-ZU here.

Coulisse and Zepel proved popular as the night unfolded, with a menu of sweet treats including waffles and cupcakes. Learn more about Zepel here.

“What an evening! A huge congratulations to the organisers of ‘Future Future’ for putting on such a fantastic event last night,” said Alix Helps Interiors creative director Alix Helps. “Every showroom absolutely sparkled, the catering was superb, and the atmosphere made for such a wonderful opportunity to catch up with industry friends. This year truly felt next level – inspiring, beautifully curated and a real celebration of our design community.”