The boundaries between retail, hospitality and workplace design continue to blur. Today's commercial interiors are expected to do far more than simply function—they must create memorable experiences, strengthen brand identity and encourage meaningful human connection.

The newly completed headquarters for Girls with Gems in Rosebery is an excellent example of this evolution. Designed by Laidback Lee Design, the project transforms a traditional commercial fit-out into a multi-purpose destination that seamlessly combines showroom, workspace and communal gathering areas. For lighting professionals, the project demonstrates how thoughtful decorative lighting can contribute to both the visual identity and operational success of a contemporary commercial environment.

Designing for Experience, Not Just Function

When destination fashion boutique Girls with Gems set out to create their new headquarters, the vision was clear: develop a space that feels as inspiring, confident and welcoming as the women they dress.

The resulting environment balances product display, team collaboration and client engagement within a cohesive design language. Rather than relying solely on architectural finishes or styling, lighting plays a critical role in defining zones, creating atmosphere and reinforcing the brand's premium positioning.

Throughout the space, carefully selected lighting and furniture from About Space work alongside rich textures, soft forms and layered materials.

The Growing Importance of Decorative Lighting in Commercial Spaces

Commercial lighting professionals are increasingly being asked to deliver more than compliance, efficiency and illumination levels.

The Girls with Gems HQ demonstrates how decorative luminaires can become focal design elements while still contributing meaningfully to the overall lighting strategy.

• Establish brand character
• Create memorable customer experiences
• Improve occupant comfort and wellbeing
• Enhance photography and social media content opportunities

A Statement in Comfort: The Ilaria Lounge Chair

While lighting often anchors a commercial interior, furniture selection influences how people interact within a space.

The Ilaria Lounge Chair's curved silhouette and generous proportions help soften the commercial environment, creating inviting moments for informal meetings, client conversations and quiet reflection.

It's designed in Italy by BUBI+ and exclusively available in Australia through About Space. 

Layered Illumination with the Caroline Pendant

At the heart of the lighting scheme is the Caroline Pendant - specified in both Single and Duo configurations.

The Caroline Pendant, designed in Melbourne by About Space.