Lead image: Kelsey Zafiridis Photography
Unica & Co has opened a bricks-and-mortar store in the historic Adelaide Arcade selling unique handcrafted Italian ceramics and artisanal treasures.
Founded by sisters Rose and Pasqui, this venture is a culmination of their Italian heritage and a desire to share it with the community.
What started as an online business in 2022 has now grown into a physical store made possible through Renew Adelaide, a platform supporting emerging entrepreneurs.
“Adding a bricks-and-mortar store to our belt allows us to offer a more immersive experience,” co-owner Rose says. “We were offered an enormous opportunity by Renew Adelaide and want to share our culture with as many people as possible. We thought it was the perfect timing and space, and gives people the opportunity to touch and feel our products and find out who we are and what we do.”
The store’s ethos is rooted in the sisters’ upbringing, where gatherings around the table were synonymous with sharing food, laughter, and lively conversation.
“Our parents taught us the importance of hospitality and sharing food with family and friends,” says Rose. “For us it was a question of how do we bring that to others and share that love with them? Ceramics allow us to do that with passion, style, colour and grace.”
The brand’s aim is to source products that are central to ‘sharing’, such as platters, bowls and plates. Anything that encourages the sharing of food, that’s where the sister’s focus.
Unica & Co’s selection process for imported goods is meticulous, focusing on craftsmanship and uniqueness. “We seek out suppliers who share our values of quality and tradition,” Pasqui notes. “Each piece in our collection is handcrafted and hand-painted, bringing a certain flair.”
The pair curate their collection by sourcing from suppliers in beautiful cities across Italy, including Sicily, Florence, and Tuscany.
The name of the store reflects the store’s commitment to offering one-of-a-kind products, with ‘Unica’ meaning Unique in English.
“We want our customers to feel like they’re getting something special, something that can’t be found elsewhere,” Rose says. “And then the ‘Co’ symbolises the potential for future collaborations and expansions.”
As sisters, Rose and Pasqui navigate the challenges of working together while celebrating their shared heritage. “It’s been a learning experience,” Pasqui admits. “But having grown up in a close-knit family, it’s been really nice.”
Among Unica & Co’s standout products are their pizza plates and the Rassena range from Tuscany, known for its elegant designs and earthy terracotta tones. “We’re constantly on the lookout for unique pieces and Rose has an amazing eye for beautiful products,” Pasqui adds.
The brands they carry vary, including renowned names like Bitossi and Crita Ceramiche. However, one brand that holds a special place is Sicilian-based Ceramiche De Simone, which happens to be Pasqui’s favourite. It perfectly embodies the ethos of Unica & Co and was the first brand they stocked.
“We truly believe that our products bring spice, vibrancy, life, and a taste of Italian culture not only to people in Adelaide but also across Australia.
“It’s so lovely to feel a passion and immerse yourself in someone else’s culture. We found that with other cultures and feel people would love to do that with our Italian culture.”
As Unica & Co establishes itself in Adelaide Arcade, it invites customers to explore its selection of Italian ceramics, art, handbags and jewellery and more.
Unica & Co
Where: Shop 19 Adelaide Arcade
Open: Open from 9:30am – 3:30pm Tuesday to Thursday, 10am – 7pm Fridays and 10am – 3:30pm Saturdays
More info: Click here
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