Introducing Kett: Distinctly Australian Furniture Design

The studio is led by design director Justin Hutchinson, whose career spans nearly twenty years and has earned him recognition within the Australian design community. From his early days in hands-on production through roles as designer, lecturer, and founder, Hutchinson brings exceptional depth and craftsmanship to his role as Kett’s Design Director. 

Since joining the studio in 2016, he has built a portfolio that celebrates local materials, careful detailing, and a lifestyle rooted in the Australian environment. Born within the leafy surrounds of Melbourne’s Abbotsford Convent and now based in the energetic creative hub of Brunswick, Kett’s design studio operates at the heart of a community known for its history of making, from fine textiles to contemporary ceramics. Here, Hutchinson leads a team dedicated to crafting enduring, thoughtful furniture using only the finest materials.

“In a world crowded by poorly made things, it is a pleasure and a privilege to spend each day working on products that are designed to last.” – Justin Hutchinson
With Kett, everyday living becomes an experience shaped by honesty, beauty, and purpose.

A Design Language Shaped by Australia

Kett’s collections embody a distinctly Australian aesthetic, calm, warm, and deeply connected to the natural world. The nation’s diverse landscapes inform every design decision: the rugged coastlines, sweeping plains, and native flora that define the Australian environment. These influences shine through in Kett’s carefully curated palette of upholstery, timber, and powder coat finishes.

Each tone and texture is selected to echo the colours of Australia’s deserts, mountains, oceans, and cities, creating furniture that feels grounded, welcoming, and authentically local. Kett pieces integrate effortlessly into modern homes, offering a sense of connection and belonging while elevating everyday comfort.

Nature as Muse

Many of Kett’s most recognisable forms draw inspiration from the dramatic Victorian coastline. The coastal grasslands around Cape Otway and the shifting lines of Johanna Beach influence silhouettes, textures, and material choices.

Soft curves reminiscent of windswept dunes, gentle lines echoing native grasses, and tactile finishes inspired by coastal light all contribute to designs that feel both sculptural and serene. Each furniture collection quietly captures the essence of the places that inspire them.

The Frame Living System: Tailored for Modern Life

Kett’s commitment to thoughtful, locally crafted design is exemplified by the Frame Living System, a modular approach to joinery that adapts to living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices alike.

Frame integrates storage, shelving, and technology into a unified system, with a wide range of finishes, configurations, and functional options. Designed to maximise flexibility, it can be tailored to rooms of all sizes and installed on various wall types, from plasterboard to masonry. Whether providing custom storage, media integration, or workspace solutions, Frame brings order, elegance, and longevity to contemporary living.

Craftsmanship at the Core

Every Kett piece begins with a sketch, then evolves through close collaboration with expert craftspeople and local manufacturers. Guided by Justin Hutchinson’s commitment to refinement and reduction, each design is pared back to its essential character before being brought to life.

Kett partners with a network of local, European, and Indonesian makers, blending Australian heritage with global craftsmanship. The result is furniture that is precise, authentic, and made to last.

Celebrating Natural Materials

Kett champions honest materials, most notably solid timber and traditional timber-frame construction. These natural foundations bring warmth, durability, and character to each design, while carefully executed upholstery adds softness and sophistication. By honouring the innate beauty of each material, Kett reinforces both aesthetic integrity and environmental responsibility.

Signature Design Details

Across Kett’s collections, gentle curves, softened edges, thoughtful proportions, clean geometry, and nature-inspired colour palettes come together to give each piece a quietly refined, functional, and timeless presence.

Designed and Made in Melbourne

Kett’s strong commitment to local manufacturing underscores the importance of supporting Australian makers. Wherever possible, Kett collaborates with Melbourne-based craftspeople, contributing to the region’s thriving design culture while upholding exceptional quality standards.

Above: Johanna Occasional chair, Otway coffee tables, Otway Modular Sofa

Each locally made Kett piece reflects the depth of Australian craftsmanship and the enduring value of community-driven design.

Designing for Generations

Sustainability is woven into Kett’s philosophy. Rather than chase trends, the studio focuses on creating furniture with lasting relevance, pieces designed to be lived with, cared for, and passed down. By selecting durable materials and refining production methods, Kett reduces waste while ensuring their furniture will endure beautifully over time. Each piece stands as a commitment to both the environment and the people who bring it into their homes.

Experience Kett

Discover pieces that honour the Australian landscape, celebrate craftsmanship, and elevate everyday living through thoughtful, enduring design.

Explore the full Kett range and bring the spirit of Australian artistry into your home.