The Cultural Dialogue: How Bronte Shapes Spaces Through Story

In the world of interior style, few approaches are as nuanced as those shaped by diverse cultural influences. For Bronte, owner of Perth-based Cleo Collects, this understanding comes from a life lived between continents, where French moderation meets American self-expression.

Born from the fascinating fusion of these two cultures, Bronte's home is a prime example of exploring eclectic style in the most carefully curated manner, allowing the space to develop a unique yet refined energy that feels refreshingly modern without sacrificing the heart of bohemian design.

As an art and antique dealer specializing in French and Italian designers from Art Deco to Mid-century, her perspective offers unique insight into creating spaces that carry both meaning and sophistication.

“I’ve come to appreciate different ways of thinking and the culture
entrenched within the French and American psyche.”

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Cultural foundations

"Growing up in France and San Francisco, I've come to appreciate different ways of thinking and the cultures entrenched within the French and American psyche – both substantially different in many ways," shares Bronte. This cultural duality shapes not just her aesthetic approach but her philosophy toward collecting and curation, with the unique fusion revealing itself throughout her home. Subtle yet significant touches from both influences create an intriguingly eclectic space that feels masterfully curated.

The French influence manifests in her measured approach to acquisition. "I took the 'preference for moderation' from the French," she notes, explaining how this translates to a thoughtful resistance against fast fashion in design. Each piece in her collection represents an investment – not just financial, but emotional and cultural.

“When I consider furniture and homewares, I yearn to know the context of the piece, and in-turn the meaning it has for me.”

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Parisian influence

The streets of Paris continue to shape Bronte's eye for detail and appreciation for considered design. "Mostly, I draw inspiration from my regular visits back home to Paris. I love walking the streets and taking in the architecture. Every detail in France is considered, and I think this is why those design elements translate so well to current interiors."

This attention to architectural detail and natural forms influences not just her personal space but the pieces she sources for Cleo Collects. Her sourcing process reflects this commitment to authenticity, working with "reputable dealers who specialise in very specific designers in both Italy and France." Having family connections on the ground, including her aunt working outside Paris, ensures each piece meets her exacting standards for quality and authenticity, bringing true Parisian sophistication to Australian spaces.

“Every detail in France is considered, and I think this is why those design elements translate so well to current interiors.”

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Balanced expression

When it comes to incorporating bohemian elements without overwhelming a space, Bronte's approach demonstrates sophisticated restraint. "I believe that mixing cultures and artistic styles can be a great way to bring character to a space and allow for interesting conversations," she explains. Her method for maintaining balance is precise: "I consider the balance of materials and the proportions of each piece. For example, balancing natural materials like timber and rattan next to polished steel or brass provides an interesting juxtaposition."

This attention to material dialogue ensures spaces feel both curated and uncontrived. Her sentimental view of personal collections adds another layer of meaning – each eclectic piece carries its own story, contributing to a space that feels both sophisticated and deeply personal.

While Bronte honors her commitment to timeless, antique pieces, she continuously explores contemporary designs, allowing the spaces she curates to feel both enduring and fresh. "I also draw inspiration from magazines like Architectural Digest and Vogue Living and platforms like Instagram and Pinterest," she notes.

“I believe that mixing cultures and artistic styles can be a great way to bring character to a space.”

What emerges from Bronte's approach is more than a design philosophy – it's a masterclass in cultural synthesis and thoughtful curation. Her spaces demonstrate that bohemian style, when approached with intention and cultural literacy, transcends simple decoration to become a form of storytelling. Each room reflects the delicate balance between French moderation and American self-expression, between historical significance and contemporary living, between personal narrative and universal appeal.

In an era often driven by trending aesthetics, Bronte's spaces remind us that true style lies in the meaningful dialogue between pieces, cultures, and personal narrative – where each element contributes to a larger story of lived experience and considered choice. Her home stands as testament to the power of patient curation and cultural understanding in creating spaces that feel both worldly and intimately personal.