The founders of Blu Dot didn't like the furniture they could afford, and couldn't afford the furniture they liked, so they set about combining good design and affordability, with great results. Karen talked to Brett Conroy, the Managing Director of Blu Dot's new Australian store, whose passion for design is immediately clear. We can recommend a visit - make sure you tell Brett we sent you.  

Brett, you were an architect before taking on this role. Why the switch?
I have a background in logistics & design. Launching Blu Dot in Australia is a perfect balance of my strengths and passions.

What is the philosophy of Blu Dot as a company?
Our goal is to bring good design to as many people as possible. That means creating products that are useful, affordable, and desirable. To make that happen, our design process is founded on collaboration. Not just among ourselves as we play show-and-tell with concepts, but a total collaboration between pencil and paper, materials and machines, even packaging and assembly. We like to think that the form is almost inevitable, a by-product of the process. Our job is simply to help it emerge as beautifully and as efficiently as possible.


Left: Desk 51 and Real Good Chair in red. Right: Chicago shelving system

Why launch a retail store in Australia?
Australians are well travelled global citizens. We have a keen eye and respect good design. There is a definite lack of accessibly priced original modern furniture in Australia. I hope that Blu Dot fills the gap.

What can people expect when they come to visit you?
A warm greeting and a great mix of our product range.


Left: The showroom exterior in Alexandria. Right: The best-selling Dodu bed and Scamp tables

Tell us about the product mix?
Our in store product mix is a great cross section from the Blu Dot range. Our showroom is an ever changing dynamic space where we give all our products a stage to shine.

Who is your ideal customer?
Anyone and everyone with a penchant for original modern design.


Left: Karen's pick - the Real Good Chair in copper, designed to acquire a patina with use. Right: The Toro Lounge Chair

What is your favourite item and why?
I have a new favourite everyday. Although the Strut series & Toro chair have been number one on my list too many times to count.

Quick fire questions

Can't live without: Chutzpah.
Design hero: Blu Dot of course with Sydney Architect Michael Dysart right up there.
Decorating pet hate:  Indifference.
If money were no object I would buy:  a Sydney Ball Stain painting.
Something most people don't know about you: There's nothing else I'd rather be doing.