Terrarium

Overview

Located next door to the good-time Portland Public House in Kingsland, Terrarium is an absolutely beautiful shop/shared studio that stocks a carefully curated selection of even more beautiful products.

Georgia Jay is the woman behind the space. It serves as a showroom for her line of handcrafted leather goods, which includes buttery-soft and flawlessly finished bags, purses and wallets. The cowhide shoppers are to die for, and one can spend far too much time holding them against their body and staring wistfully into the mirror. Unlike other shops, looking at you Ponsonby, the prices are reasonable enough to make those dreams come true.

Also up for grabs are sweet-as-pie totes, ‘softies’ (suede drawstring bags) and accessories from cult label MYDEERFOX, gorgeous gemstone jewellery from Charlotte Penman, whimsical prints by Playground, and, perhaps unsurprisingly, terrariums from the chaps at House of Botanica.

You'll also find: wares from boutique fragrance brand Mackinven & Co, who produce candles with the most dreamy scents (have a sniff of avocado & mint, go on); handcrafted plant pots and other ceramics from Wundaire; and gorgeous, delicate camisoles from Minicami round out what might be a collection of the most drool-worthy stuff I’ve seen in a while.

Terrarium is what retail should be – laidback and inviting, with lovely service and free Kokako Cold Brew to keep you caffeinated while you browse. Not the worst way I’ve spent my Sunday mornings.