Directors, Robert Joyce and Jo Maindonald, founded the business in the 70’s in Armadale and have pursued their passion for antiques, art and aesthetics since.  They recently recruited Lucy Joyce and Hana Joyce, their two daughters, to join the business. Each has their own special complimentary talents and they aim to keep Kazari a living, evolving business.

Lucy’s background is in photography and advertising with a BAppSci from RMIT + Diploma of Advertising & Graphic Design. Hana has a BA (Hons) History of Art from SOAS, the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, specialising in the arts of Asia and Africa. With their qualifications and experience in their fields they are sure to contribute a great deal to this dynamic and vibrant business.

Kazari was originally known as Kazari Japanese Interiors in 1978 and then specialised in antique furniture, antiques, fine art and folk art from Japan and more recently China. Kazari has been featured in the international journal, Architectural Digest, as well as in magazines such as Belle and Vogue, and recognised as an iconic store, one of the best in Melbourne.

During the 80’s with stunning champagne gala events, including fashion parades featuring favourites of the time, Issey Miyake, Yoji Yamamoto and Comme des Garcon designs mixed with contemporary Italian furniture and Japanese arts and antiques.

The concept store, Made in Japan (Imports), was conceived, launched and later sold, by Kazari directors in the 80’s. Many remember the first flagship store with its stunning Japanese garden in Chapel St. it was celebrated at the time for being innovative and brought many Japanese design ideas to Australia for the first time – concepts such as oblong plates were totally new to the Australian public and have now found there way into restaurants across Australia.

Name changes reflected changing trends and interests. From Kazari & the Orientalist to Kazari Decorator and Kazari Collector, which differentiated the two stores on Malvern Rd., our latest incarnation Kazari + Ziguzagu, has reinvigorated both our brand and our following. We are being noticed for the first time, by new comers to the marketplace, for our exotic, eclectic and the stylish hand selected items in our regular shipments. The inspiration of the arts of Japan continues to feed our aesthetic appetites and remains at the core of our success and long life.

In 2002 Kazari were principal sponsors of the exhibition SPRING FLOWERS, AUTUMN GRASS - the Spirit of Nature in Asian Art, showing works from the collection at the NGV (National Gallery of Victoria). Kazari has sponsored other events at the NGV including those to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Ikebana International Melbourne in 2009.

All stock, fine art, Japanese screens, paintings and prints C16th - C20th, contemporary art and sculpture, antique furniture and collectables are purchased with the experience of 40+ years, for authenticity, quality and style and the Directors are members of the AAADA (Australian Art and Antique Dealers Association).