After spending the last 15 years working in graphic design, Gold Coast designer Nicole Steele (maiden name Paterson) decided it was time for a change. Not wanting to move away from design completely, but feeling a need to go back to her creative roots, she started taking the slow steps towards a new project – an online homewares store. As a result, Paterson + Steele was born in February this year.

Paterson + Steele features a colourful range of unique and eclectic artisan pieces for the home, chosen by Nicole, most of which are handmade and come with their own interesting story. When sourcing she looks for conversation starters, for unique pieces that may not have been seen before, and for pieces that have a social conscience. The store currently stocks a number of Australian and international brands, including Ahoy Trader, Pony Rider, Pop & Scott and The Design Farm. Nicole and her husband have also started creating their own range of products under the Paterson + Steele name, which are sold exclusively through the online store.