Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s creative Darlinghurst, you’ll find Sappho Designs, an artist’s studio creating exquisite woodwork. Founded by Fiona Gazepis, Sappho Designs isn’t your average studio; it’s a place where Fiona’s passion for timber and meticulous craftsmanship weave together to create bespoke pieces that are both functional and sustainable, re-using materials and offcuts that would otherwise end up going to waste.
The studio launched in 2020, days before the first Sydney COVID lockdown, but the business didn’t press pause. Instead, Fiona used her art as a distraction and built a dedicated following, finding new ways to harness her creativity.
Intrigued by Fiona’s process and the story behind Sappho Designs, The Latch had the opportunity to chat with her and delve deeper into her world of timber creations.
The Latch: What’s the story behind the name and the inspiration for your business?
Fiona Gazepis: Sappho is my name translated in Greek, and I wanted the business to have a deep connection to my heritage. A lot of my work is inspired by my travels to Greece, and it made sense to have that reflected in the name.
The Latch: What made you gravitate towards working with wood?
FG: There’s something undeniably special about wood. It’s a natural material, each piece with its unique grain and character. Working with wood allows me to create something beautiful and functional, while still respecting the inherent qualities of the material itself. I love that I can find a piece of wood, literally off the street, and turn it into something beautiful and functional, giving it a second life and saving it from becoming another piece of scrap.
The thing that inspires me most about working with wood is the diversity of beautiful wood grains. No two pieces are alike and each piece of wood I work with always surprises me. The more imperfections in the wood, the more beautiful it is, just like people. The older the timber, the more character I find in the grain, just like the life stories you hear from elderly people and their interesting journeys. The lines on their faces tell a story just like the wood grain.
The Latch: What sets Sappho Designs apart from other woodwork studios?
FG: My focus is on bespoke creations. I don’t mass-produce; each piece is designed and crafted specifically, which means all pieces have their own unique features or quirks. There’s a story behind every Sappho Designs creation.
I also love to work with other materials and integrate them into my pieces. I’ve worked with resin and metal, and I’m just starting to play around with how I can integrate glass.
I also like to make sure that nothing goes to waste, and any offcuts I carve into little hearts, crosses and ornaments… and let’s not forget spinning wooden tops for the little kids…and big kids!
Olive Wood Decorative Bowl ($490)
The Latch: What’s your design process like?
FG: If I’m working directly with a client to create something bespoke, it all starts with a conversation. I get to know the client, their vision for the piece, and the space it will inhabit. Then comes the sketching phase, where I translate their needs into initial designs. We work together to refine the design. Every step, from selecting the perfect timber to the finishing touches.
If I’m creating something for myself, it all starts with the piece of wood. Once I source the wood, I then figure out what I’ll spin it into, often inspired by the grain and its unique features.
The Latch: What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work?
FG: Witnessing the joy on a client’s face when they see their dream piece come to life is truly special. It’s the knowledge that I’ve created something not just beautiful but also meaningful for their space. It’s about crafting pieces that become a part of their stories, creating heirlooms to be cherished for generations to come.
The Latch: Can you share what’s next for Sappho Designs?
FG: I have some interesting upcoming projects with some table tops I’m working on and I’m introducing some hand carved elements in various pieces. I’ve also got an exhibition in the works so watch this space…