A Day with Bromley at Prahran Arcade

The extravagantly styled 1890s Prahran Arcade has had many lives live through its halls over the decades–shopping arcade, Turkish bath-house, oyster bar, and more famously the home of renowned artist David Bromley. After 13 years of using the space as a studio, Bromley’s space has now been delicately restored as Sophia–the grand edifice that plays host to events and celebrations which is a world away from the bustle of busy Chapel Street of Melbourne

The editorial pays tribute to Bromley and how he might live a day in our world today–surrounded by confidants and considered design. We follow him as he comes home from a day of projects–he changes into a quiet evening with friends–surrounded by food and considered design. The food and produce are also reimagined and redefined, blurring the lines of harvest and art. Considered and intentional design comes through in the styling and floral design–a reflection of Bromley’s work, a little curious, a little surreal, and always playful.

The styling elements pick up on Sophia’s history as an oyster bar, incorporating elements of the sea’s harvest. It is also a nod to Atlantic Group’sexpertise in seafood. Throughout the arcade, the cabinet of curiosities plays on harvest and art–grapes drying to become raisins but using the balustrade as a vine, radishes requiring a second look as you light themes candles.

As the day ends, he prepares to welcome friends into his home–surrounded by the last autumn sun and a table set for eight. A quick shave and brush before changing into something more comfortable. The hum of the city below bounces off the façade and dampens on the balcony as we sit down to dinner. If only we could survive on art and cheese!

‘When I’m creating art, I can lose myself completely’ – David Bromley.

That still lives on in the arcade’s beautiful architecture.

STYLIST: Ruby and James, @ruby_and_james / PHOTOGRAPHER: Lei Lei Clavey, @leileiclaveyphotography / MODELS + AGENT: Harrison Gould, @harry_gould / FLORA: Tweed Twigs, @tweedtwigs / CHEESE TOWER: Fine Grazing, @finegrazing / GARMENT: Oscar Hunt, @oscarhunttailors / VENUE: Sophia – Atlantic Group, @sophia.prahranarcade / FURNITURE: Harry the Hirer, @harrythehirer / MAKEUP: Jeda Vu Makeup Artistry, @jedavu_mua