Words Vanessa Keys, Styling Wendy Bannister, Photography Lisa Cohen

There's a sense of satisfaction in being privy to the history of an intricately crafted chair, or knowing how and when your children's toys were manufactured. Call it old-fashioned, but that's exactly the kind of intimacy Catherine Southwood strives to create at homewares haven Southwood Home. A stylish addition to Melbourne's inner-city Fitzroy North's shopping strip, this eco-conscious store specialises in organic cotton bedlinen, environmentally friendly beauty products and locally handcrafted furniture and ceramics. A former textiles buyer, Catherine remains passionate about fair trading. "I have always had a very strong reaction against anything mass produced," says Catherine. "When I opened Southwood Home last year, I didn't want to sell a ‘look'; instead, I encourage people to shop with their heart."

Some of the store's most eye-catching pieces are armchairs Catherine has lovingly restored herself. Every bed is crafted from Australian recycled timber, and each designer Catherine collaborates with employs similarly strong eco ethics. "I'm most proud of our EcoLinen organic sheets," says Catherine. "Properly designed sheets should last eons - these come with a five-year guarantee!" The philosophy of Southwood Home is simple, and shines strongly through the store's clean and classic interior: buy to last, don't fall victim to fad trends and insist on knowing where your purchases have come from. "Ultimately," says Catherine, "what we choose to fill our homes with is a reflection upon ourselves."

Find it: 284 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North, Victoria. Call (03) 9486 6002 or visit www.southwoodhome.com.au.
Open: Tues-Sat, 10am-5.30pm