Dinosaur Designs… far from extinction

For more than three decades, Dinosaur Designs has been molding beautiful resin pieces. The Australian husband-and-wife team behind this prolific company find inspiration from their native Australian landscape. In addition, drawings of Aboriginal art which have been around for centuries provide a source of creative energy… it is clear that the unique pigment, creamy sandstone, and striking red sand continues to inspire.

All pieces are handmade in Sydney by a talented, ambitious team. Gaining a sort of cult following, the unique jewelry is sold on popular sites such as Moda Operandi and Net-a-Porter. Faithful followers of the stunning designs include Lady Gaga, Meryl Streep, and Oprah.

Stephen Ormandy and Louise Olsen started working with resin as students while they were in art school. They say the philosophy behind Dinosaur Designs lies in color and form. Growing organically and naturally, the past thirty years have been a study in evolution for this ubiquitous brand.

Obviously, the aesthetic has been refined and matured over the years. The duo say that they feel as though they have mastered the techniques, but that they are continuously surprised by the possibilities and options that arise via working with resin. Olsen says, “We love the contrast in textures that’s created by adding elements of silver, brass and glass to each collection and we’re always asking ‘what’s next?’ as we get excited by the creative process and the journey it takes you on.”

Each piece is handcrafted in Australia, passing through many pairs of hands during the intricate and involved process. As a result, each item has slight variations which make it unique. The studio is located in Sydney’s Strawberry Hills neighborhood. Inside this light-filled studio all the designs are imagined, created, and produced. This special space is a “second home” to Ormandy and Olsen, and it proves to be a very happy environment for the entire team.

Olsen says, “People often ask us if it’s difficult to work side by side as a couple, but we feel lucky to be able to work together to create beautiful things. We never really stop thinking about design and art, which is why we find it so easy living and working together- we share the same passions.”

Dinosaur Designs employs over 100 personnel and has eight dedicated brick-and-mortar stores in Australia, England, and the United States. Ormandy and Olsen are adamant that their manufacturing process stay environmentally-friendly.

Taking it one step further, the company became carbon neutral ten years ago. Along those lines, Dinosaur Designs realized that they need to retain a fine balance between efficiency and originality in the handmade products they make. Navigating the changing climate of the world is a challenge… but one that they are happy to negotiate!

Dinosaur Designs recently opened a US flagship store in SOHO, on a block that is a “design and creative hub”. They love visiting their neighbors, who they don’t view as competitors, for inspiration. With stores such as Matter and BDDW nearby, Olsen says they are “perfect for a bout of energy.”

Nevertheless, what sets this company apart is its unique ability to melt an assortment of unexpected colors together and sculpt them into unexpected shapes. Dinosaur Designs are THE BEST at this… and we know they will be around for at least another three decades.