Some very nice rugs, but: I was looking for a nondescript and plain rug. I was told that they only…read morestock distinctive rugs. That's fine. I'd say if you're looking for an interesting, bespoke, unique rug you should definitely check these guys out. But if you're after something more on the normcore side, maybe try Big W.

Absolutely love this place. Literally have a bit of everything!…read moreHave been looking for quite some time now and finally found a proper outdoor beer garden setting at a real good price. Delivery was within a couple of days too. https://www.swanstreet.com.au/outdoor-furniture/outdoor-setting/ Will definitely be going back.

From the owner: Swan Street Sales - get the products you want at the prices you can well afford.read more

I was walking down Smith Street when I discovered a lovely store I hadn't seen on my prior trips…read more Meet Oliverbirch- a boutique store where their buyer (Marissa-sp?) takes pride & care in selecting beautiful products that invites all of your senses- smell, touch, see etc. From linen shirts, dresses, and pants that are good for summer & travel for any future destination, to accessories for the home (think gorgeous decor and that little tiny bowl you just want to drop your earrings into), this place is a must-stop for a gift you have been seeking for the special persons in your life-including yourself! While I was there, I enjoyed perusing through all the leather bags (some are created & made in Australia or produced in India/China), in addition to nice linen/cloth totes that are practical but stylish for everyday chores & wear. I also loved all the different candles that are perfect for gifts- such as "Bestie" or "Soul Sister" etc. And this place is not just for the ladies. Men will find curated shaving goods and hand lotions that will fit on your bathroom counter but give it that extra pizazz before you start your workweek. The location is on Smith Street very close to the corner of Gertrude Street (about one block down) and on the opposite side of where Crumpler is located. There are glass windows surrounding the boutique which gives it a light and fresh atmosphere for those who need relief from the sporadic Melbourne weather & heat. I couldn't decide what I wanted to buy when I was there (I was eyeing a green leather Tasmanian designer tote or a soft sage green linen tote). It was so much fun to look at how everything was placed for visual acuity. But I hope to return after much contemplation of things I may want to buy. It's a beautiful space w/ lovely staff that will attend to your needs but not overly doting, which is a good combo.

Walking into an Australian store with Melbourne made furniture, I was expecting a bit more sticker…read moreshock. Thankfully, while by no means cheap, it's pretty reasonable here by comparison. The furniture is made in Melbourne and the designs are nice. Everything is custom built, so you can choose any combination of wood and fabric. The furniture is really nice. Unfortunately, the staff member that we got lumped with seemed to get that and make zero effort to be helpful in any way. We found 'the' couch and were left to sit on it for a while. When we got up to do some comparisons, the woman was quick to race over to replump the cushions and then hurried off before we could get her attention. Which ordinarily would have been our cue to leave, but unfortunately we did really want the couch. We finally got some help to purchase the couch and are in the process of waiting the 8-9 weeks for it to be built as it's made to order. The transaction was pretty painless...mostly because this woman wanted so little to do with us that she didn't bother with too much up sell. So in all, definitely recommended for a local furniture option. But no stars for service, that's for sure.

If you're new to Melbourne and looking for some good quality, modern timber furniture - there's a…read morestore called Urban Rhythm along Church Street with really good service. (Ask for Lorian or Andrew) They specialise in timber furniture and a quick walk round the showroom will offer you insight into the variety of designs available. But don't get disappointed if you don't see the timber colour/stain or specific sized dining table in store. The best thing about this store is everything you see on the showroom floor is an example only. Once you choose a design, you then go into size specifics and choose a tint for the Tasmanian Oak tables which are made and designed right here in Melbourne. The same goes for their Melbourne-made sofas and dining chairs. Choose a design then go into the fabric or leather specifics. Remember to ask about leather and fabric protection. Did I mention all made in Melbourne furniture comes with a 10-year warranty? Just keep in mind when shopping that all furniture made in Australia take 6-10 weeks to get made up, specially for you so don't put your furniture shopping trip off or you might have to sit on the floor in your new home.

Wilkins and Kent stock some beautiful things. Kitchenware, ceramics, organic soaps and candles, and…read moreof course well-made and divine woodwork are scattered around the space. On my last visit I spent a lot of my time eyeing a long handmade redgum bench. Sleek and simple it stood in the middle of the store and radiated comfort. Unfortunately the price tag (well over $1000) and lack of space in my house meant that I didn't have a hope in hell. But I can dream. Wilkins and Kent have some great kitchenware ranges including the Nigella Lawson range, and some exquisite ceramic bowls. On my last visit I bought some ceramic birds that hang from the wall - glazed with beautiful colours they are beautiful little pieces of art and around the ($50) mark, weren't too expensive. The service at Wilkins and Kent is always great, although the store can get very busy so it may take a while to get some service. But friendly and well meaning, the sales assistants are helpful and knowledgeable about the products.

Wilkins and Kent is one of those must-visit stores for me on Brunswick street. Filled with a…read morekaleidoscope of products from pretty table ware to chic bakeware and printed lamps. This is also one of those stores that you need to slowly work your way through in order to appreciate it for what it really is. Incidentally, it would be easy to mistake this shop as a homeware store, but in actuality, Wilkins and Kent specialise in custom designed furniture. And from what we hear, the bosses Jeremy Wilkins and Stephen Kent are the actual furniture makers. If you're looking to create a custom designed piece or are just looking for something to complement your home with, check out this lovely store. Wilkins and Kent also carry a wide range of household décor items, stationery, gardening tools and other bits and bobs - perfect as gifts.