Why Verdant is part of a collective

When people first step into our shop, they’re often surprised. It’s not filled with fabric swatches but instead brimming with artisan goods and local art, from handcrafted pots to unique pieces by local creatives. Verdant is part of the South Coast Collective, which might seem unexpected for a shop specializing in sustainable interiors. But to us, it’s all about building community and supporting creativity. Here’s why we chose to be part of something bigger than a standalone store.

Our Love for Community and Creatives

Supporting community and creativity is at the core of Verdant’s values. The collective began as a Christmas pop-up in Island Bay, started by me, Janette, and my friend, Anthea Grob, a gifted potter and textile designer. We were a bunch of friends and neighbors with similar ethos and values—a philosophy of zero waste, organic materials, and being light on the planet, all eager to showcase our work and connect with others.

After the success of our first pop-up, we decided to put down roots with a more permanent space on Webb Street, where we stayed. Unfortunately the premises was sold, and then, as New Zealand faced its first COVID lockdown, the settlement date was brought forward. With only four days to move, the collective truly came together: we scrubbed, cleaned, painted, and moved into our new Aro Street space. Working down to the last hour, we managed to set up a little window display just before the entire country went into lockdown.

Why We’re Here to Stay

Being part of this creative collective means we’re constantly inspired and supported by others who understand the unique journey of running a small business. Having a team allows us to open our doors six days a week, share ideas, and help each other through the ups and downs of small business life. This sense of shared purpose and collaboration is at the heart of what makes Verdant special.

So, when you visit us at the shop, you’re stepping into more than a shop. You’re entering a space filled with artistry, community spirit, and a commitment to a planet-friendly philosophy. We couldn’t imagine it any other way.

Here are our Core members back in 2022

Including moi (Janette) on the right. We have a much nicer more professional sign now too!