Storytellers Workshop

It’s home to some of the most eclectic and beautiful collections of second hand goods, with everything from Persian rugs, cane furniture and even vintage glassware.

I’ve spent months stalking their amazing Instagram account, and when a friend invited me to assist her with shopping (how could I refuse) we finally got to visit their bricks and mortar store in Old Reynella. It was a charmer!

Storytellers Workshop started in January 2017 as a Instagram account to sell their wares. Business owners Hannah Cordingley and Branko Lipovac said that the wares that they collected slowly but surely took over most parts of their home, which led them to acquire a quaint cottage in the heart of Old Reynella. They love the concept of having a ‘home’ as such to display their goods, as it helps them create displays so customers can envisage the products in their own home (and god damn, this is how they sucker you in because it works!)

Hannah tells me they started their biz because they wanted to inspire people to buy second-hand pieces and to show others that it is possible to have a stunning home you can be proud of while also being environmentally conscious (my kinda lady).

Moving into their first home together in 2014 they quickly came across the issue with modern, mass produced furniture. Trendy homewares popped up in department stores for very cheap prices and although it would have been possible for them to furnish their home quickly and inexpensively, they say that there wouldn’t have been any ‘personal touches’ in their home. This was another driving force behind the Workshop.

Storytellers Workshop is currently a side gig for these local southerners, who also work as an industrial electrician and visual merchandiser. However they would love this to eventually change, with big plans on the cards to open to public with regular retail hours and the opportunity to travel Australia sourcing one of a kind pieces.

Goods are sourced from all over Adelaide, from garage sales, op shops, the list goes on. They are inspired by anything they consider unique, unusual and beautiful and especially items that are handmade or painted. They admire the craftsmanship and detail of objects of times past. When you visit their workshop you’ll notice little placecards dotted around next to specifc items for sale. On those cards tells a story of where that particular product came from and the story behind it. This is what I LOVE about this place- I’m such a sucker for a back story.

Hannah says one of the most memorable items she’s had was a magnificent Turkish rug, the most beautiful rug she has ever laid her eyes on. The elderly man we bought it from told her that it had been in his family for over 70 years and he recalls sitting on it with his siblings as a small child at his grandmother’s home. Shut up and take my money that’s too sweet.

If you are looking for a unique shopping experience, with an eclectic mix of colourful global, exotic bohemian and retro vintage furniture and decorative pieces you need to check out Storytellers Workshop.

Their next open day is on the 19^th of May 2018, or you can shop their wares online, on Instagram or organise a private viewing via email.

You can find Storytellers Workshop at 230 Old South Road, Old Reynella or on Instagram at @storytellersworkshop