Who are the faces behind Fomu? Can you share your backgrounds in design, the story of Fomu, and your brand’s ethos?
Gabrielle: We’re Gabrielle and Andrew, the duo behind Fomu. I come from a background in fashion design and textiles, and Andrew started out as a carpenter before moving into furniture design and manufacturing. We’re both from Tasmania and spent about a decade in Melbourne, learning and growing in the design world. Fomu began because of our shared love for furniture and object design. We wanted to create a business that wasn't just about making products but about designing pieces that have meaning and a unique sense of value in a space. We launched Fomu in 2017 and moved back to Tasmania in 2020 to start a family and build a home by the sea.
Andrew: The idea for Fomu really took shape during our travels around Europe. We were inspired by a Hans Wegner exhibition, which led me to study Furniture Design at RMIT. While I was at uni, we traveled to Japan, where we came up with the name Fōmu, meaning "form" in Japanese. Over time, our experiences and travels have influenced how the brand has evolved.
Gabrielle: One of the most memorable moments was when we were in Copenhagen. We just missed the 3 Days of Design event but ended up running into the CEO of Menu (now Audo). After a quick introduction, he invited us to a private tour of some exhibitions. That experience was incredibly inspiring and gave us the push we needed to officially launch Fomu when we returned to Australia.
Andrew: Our ethos is all about creating furniture that’s not only beautiful but also thoughtfully considered. We’re committed to using ethically sourced materials and minimising waste in our production process. Our focus is on creating timeless designs that resonate on a deeper level, pieces that people will enjoy for years to come. Every Fomu product is made in Australia, with materials selected to ensure minimal environmental impact.
Gabrielle: What really drives us is the idea of designing a lifestyle. Our pieces are meant to be lived with, to become part of the everyday moments.
Fomu is going through some exciting changes. Can you shed some light on the future of the Fomu brand?
Gabrielle: Absolutely! We’re really excited about what’s coming up. We’re about to release three new collections. Our new timber range will now be made right here in Tasmania. We’ve set up our own manufacturing, so everything will be made by us, which is a big step forward for Fomu.
Andrew: This move to in-house production allows us to offer shorter lead times and better pricing without compromising on design or quality. It’s something we’ve been working towards for a while, and we’re thrilled to see it come to life.
Gabrielle: We’re also collaborating with some amazing creatives, teaming up with photographer Sean Fennessy and stylist Jessica Lillico for our latest photoshoot at At the Above. They’ll also be joining us in Tasmania at the end of the year to capture the essence of our studio and manufacturing. Jessica is curating our socials, giving everyone a behind-the-scenes look at our design process, manufacturing, and the inspirations that drive us. We’re really excited to bring people closer to what we do and how we create.
District and Fomu have been partners in design for some time now. How did this partnership come about? Why District?
Andrew: The partnership with District has been a natural fit from the beginning. We both share a deep commitment to high-quality design and craftsmanship, so when the opportunity to collaborate came up, it just made sense.
Gabrielle: District has a strong reputation for connecting with clients who truly appreciate the artistry behind well-made, thoughtfully designed furniture. They understand our vision and values, which has made working together really seamless. Over time, this partnership has evolved into a lasting relationship that we’re really proud of. District’s ability to showcase our designs to the right audience has been a key factor in our ongoing collaboration.
Can you share the creative vision of Fomu as a brand?
Gabrielle: Our creative vision is about more than just making beautiful furniture—it’s about creating pieces that tell a story and evoke a feeling. We focus on blurring the lines between art and design, ensuring each object has a unique personality and a deep connection with the people who use them.
Andrew: We get really excited when a piece not only has its own personality but also seamlessly integrates into a space, connecting with both the people and the environment. Seeing functionality and design come together in a way that truly enhances everyday life.
What can we expect to see collection-wise? What’s on the horizon?
Gabrielle: We’ve got some exciting collections on the way. We’re diving into new materials, exploring different forms, and experimenting with concepts that push our designs further. The updated Frame Collection, now featuring American oak, is a big part of that.
Andrew: And we’re also really excited about the new Art collection, which brings a contemporary feel with its use of stainless steel tubing. Plus, the Noun Lounge Chair is a standout for us—blending thoughtful design with everyday practicality. We’re eager to see how these new pieces will resonate with the people and spaces they’re in.
Tell us about the role of sustainability at Fomu?
Gabrielle: Sustainability is a core value for us at Fomu, but it’s about more than just using the right materials. We believe in creating pieces that are built to last, both in terms of quality and design. By focusing on durability and timelessness, we ensure that our furniture remains relevant and functional for years to come, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Andrew: We’re committed to minimising waste in our production processes and making thoughtful choices about the materials we use. But beyond that, sustainability for us means creating designs that people will cherish, that will stand the test of time, and that will continue to add value to their lives long after they’re made. It’s about combining responsibility with creativity to make a lasting impact.
