Bankston Launch
Rather than developing products in isolation, Bankston partners with some of the world's most respected architects and designers, creating collections that reflect unique creative perspectives while pushing the boundaries of materiality, manufacturing and function.
Each collection represents a genuine design partnership, where ideas are explored, challenged and refined through a process that values both artistry and practicality.
This approach was brought to life throughout the evening as guests were welcomed into Circa's Port Melbourne showroom for a carefully curated experience celebrating design, conversation and craftsmanship.
The evening commenced with a fireside discussion between Circa Manager Suzanne McNeice and Bankston founder and Southern Design Group Co-CEO Emily Bradley.
Speaking candidly with guests, Emily reflected on the evolution of the Bankston brand, the company's commitment to sustainability, and Southern Design Group's journey to becoming a certified B Corp organisation.
As an owner, investor and successor within a multigenerational Australian family business employing more than 100 people, Emily offered valuable insights into balancing commercial growth with purpose-driven leadership. Her perspective resonated strongly with the architects, designers, builders and business owners in attendance, highlighting the growing importance of responsible business practices within the design and construction industries.
The conversation also explored the symbolism behind the Bankston axis mark, which represents the intersection of three defining elements: Head, Heart and Hand.
The Head reflects strategy, vision and thought leadership.
The Heart represents the authenticity and passion of each design collaboration.
The Hand embodies craftsmanship and the tangible connection people experience when interacting with Bankston products every day.
Together, these principles form the foundation of every Bankston collection.
Following the discussion, guests were invited to experience the collections through four immersive tasting stations, each pairing a signature Bankston range with a carefully selected wine from Marnong Estate and artisan cheese.
The guided tasting experience was presented by award-winning winemaker Alex Beckett, whose distinguished career includes more than 25 major wine show trophies and
recognition as one of Australia's leading emerging wine professionals.
Each pairing was selected to complement the personality and design character of the collection being showcased.
The Hemispheres Collection, designed by Ksenia Wagner and Nicko Elliot of Civilian, was paired with Marnong Estate's Single Vineyard Chardonnay. The collection's refined geometry and understated elegance mirrored the wine's complexity and balance.
The Super Collection by SANS ARC was matched with Marnong Estate's Single Vineyard Fiano. Known for its expressive forms and playful character, the collection found a natural counterpart in the wine's textured palate and vibrant citrus profile.
Guests then explored the Streaks Collection by Yasmine Gomez of YSG alongside a Marnong Estate Pinot Noir. The collection's bold linear detailing and rich materiality complemented the wine's layered complexity and subtle spice.
The final station featured the Casts Collection by Edition Office founders Kim Bridgland and Aaron Roberts, paired with Marnong Estate's Single Vineyard Shiraz. Celebrating raw material expression and sculptural form, the collection reflected the depth, structure and intensity of the wine.
Beyond the products themselves, the evening celebrated something equally important: connection.
Throughout the showroom, conversations flowed between designers, specifiers, builders and industry partners. Guests shared project stories, discussed emerging design trends and explored how thoughtful detailing can elevate the built environment.
As Melbourne Design Week 2026 provided a backdrop for the event, the gathering served as a reminder that great design extends beyond buildings and interiors. It exists within the relationships, conversations and collaborations that shape the industry itself.
The evening concluded with networking over a final glass of wine, before guests departed with a curated gift from Bankston and Circa.
Today, the complete Bankston Collection is permanently displayed within Circa's Port Melbourne showroom, providing architects, designers and builders with the opportunity to experience each collection first-hand.
For Circa, the partnership represents a natural alignment of values. Both organisations share a commitment to design excellence, craftsmanship, innovation and the belief that even the smallest details can have a profound impact on how people experience a space.
Because when design is truly considered, every touchpoint matters.
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