Australian-Croatian women open home décor store in Zagreb
- by croatiaweek
- in Business
Marie and Elisha (Photo: Private album)
By Jozo Kolakušić
I recently had the pleasure of visiting the newly opened Oak & Olive showroom located on Gundulićeva ulica in Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb.
Welcomed by the friendly owners Marie and Elisha who both relocated from Australia, and now have ventured into business together.
They openly welcomed me into their bohemian oasis in the heart of the city centre.
It was a showroom like no other I have visited during my time living in this beautiful city that we all call home. Inspired by the authentic local goods that these two lovely ladies had come across through their travels of Turkey, Morocco and India.
Inspired by the culture and tradition of artisanal craftsmanship, and wanting to bring this artisanal slow made handicrafts to central Zagreb, Oak & Olive was created.
(Photo: Private album)
Oak & Olive’s main goal is to thoughtfully source one of a kind handmade items, which add unique beauty and character to any living space, Marie & Elisha want their customers to shop with intention and to bring items into their homes that have a story.
(Photo: Private album)
They realised that their was a missing section of the retail market which they both missed from home. A store that provided the public with the opportunity to purchase something fresh and new which has yet to been seen in Zagreb.
Oak & Olive is a breath of fresh air allowing you to traverse to exotic destinations without having to leave your home. All items in Oak & Olive’s collection have been hand selected by Marie & Elisha which shows as each piece is unique and displays their passion for traditional craftsmanship and also the cultures in which they travelled.
(Photo: Private album)
The collection ranges from 100 % hand-knotted wool rugs from the Atlas Mountain regions of Morocco, handblown glassware, ceramics created using centuries old techniques, carefully carved tableware made from wood and marble, lighting pendants hand-weaved in various shapes and styles and 100% cotton bedding from Turkey. With items in the store for every style and design aesthetic.
(Photo: Private album)
(Photo: Private album)
The lovely ladies running this store are passionate about each and every item they hand selected to feature in their collection online and in their showroom. As I entered their showroom I began in the front room which showcases their rug collection. I learnt that each rug is unique and no two exactly the same. It was quite impressive seeing so many different styles of rugs in the one place and the carefully hand crafted patterns that adorned the various models.
Every rug is hand-knotted by berber women from different tribes and roughly each piece takes anywhere from one to six months to create depending on the size and design. From the Beni Ourain, Boujaad, Runners and Zanafi Kilim each a distinct style of Moroccan artistry.
(Photo: Private album)
Beautiful bedlinen is also on show, displaying 100% cotton quilt sets and bed covers that definitely add uniqueness to any bedroom. Alongside the bedlinen is also a range of Pom Pom Blankets made of 100% pure cotton in various colours and one of a kind hand embroidered oriental Sabra cushions.
(Photo: Private album)
Adorning the ceilings are Oak & Olive’s collection of handcrafted raffia pendants, where you can see the intricate weaving techniques and craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from various design aesthetics including bohemian, coastal, and modern Mediterranean, these pendants promise to infuse any space with texture and character. These items are sure to set your home apart from the typical offerings found in mainstream decor stores.
(Photo: Private album)
The next part of the showroom featured the kitchen and dining and home decor, every piece of Oak & Olive’s collection is on display for you to see the artistry of their products first hand. Featuring ceramic mugs, candle holders in traditional shapes and decorative bowls from Morocco.
With various colours and patterns, definitely adding an authentic bohemian style to your home. Handcrafted serving items, made of wood and marble such as elegant Chartreuse boards, wooden bowls and plates to marble wine coolers, rolling pins and morter and pestle are all on display.
(Photo: Private album)
Beldi glass items which are handblown in the vibrant city of Marrakech are also part of their collection featuring the carafes and two styles of glassware from the modern and traditional design both in soothing colours of mustard and blue.
It is clear to see how much effot has been placed into the curation of Oak & Olive’s collection as the earth tones, materials and textures all flow nicely and give a sense of harmony and cohesion.
At Oak & Olive, you’ll discover something for every corner of your home, from the kitchen and living room to the bedroom. Without your humble author giving away too much detail, I would suggest strolling on down to this beautiful showroom.
Giving the lovely ladies that own this store a ring on the bell to let you into their unique oasis in the heart of the city and to give you a personal tour of the store and help you find an item or a few to decorate your living space.
(Photo: Private album)
If you are in other parts of Croatia or even nearby European countries. Not to worry, Oak & Olive deliver via their online showcase where each and every item is explained in great detail. From the materials used, to the exact location it was sourced. Have a view for yourself on the Oak & Olive website https://oakandolivestore.com/
The showroom can be found at the address of Gundulićeva 22A, Zagreb, Croatia.
Opening hours are:
Tuesday to Friday 10:00-16:00
Saturday 10:00-14:00
