Ragtrader regularly looks at new and innovative concept spaces in Australia. In this edition, Assia Benmedjdoub takes a peek at the newly refurbished Strand Hatters in Sydney.
The last time Strand Hatters underwent a revamp was at the turn of the century, but the store itself has been in operation for close to 50 years. Located centrally in Sydney’s heritage Strand Arcade building, the headwear specialist is, needless to say, steeped in and surrounded by history.
The challenge for director Robert Carroll is always the same: acknowledging Strand Hatters’ past while paying homage to its modern collection of berets from France, panamas from Ecuador and tweed caps from Ireland.
“Necessity and the new popularity of men’s hats and accessories,” Carroll says when quizzed on the rationale behind the recent renovation. “I went to New York to research retail trends and met up with retail designer Kelvin Ho. We’ve collaborated on one of the best shops in Australia, I think.”
The store, which measures approximately 39 square metres, has the feel of an old-school gents’ club, with stained glass features, brass piping following polished wood, distressed wood, tiles and brass. There are cigars, cow hides, weathered suitcases, books, golf clubs. It even has a bar at the back for “discerning gents who want a scotch while they shop”.
“We offer the whole package – we’ve got hats, cuff-links, ties, belts, canes,” Carroll says. “So a few ideas came to mind when it came to the design: old saloon, library, bar. We wanted to create a masculine but comforting feel.”
He’s quick to credit the talents of Ho, who has created retail spaces for the likes of sass and bide, Terry Biviano, Willow, Fleur Wood and luxury retail icon Belinda Seper.
“If you have an unusually brilliant idea, hire Kelvin Ho,” he quips.