Sprezzatura Spotlight – Kate Nixon

Each month, we speak with some of the country’s leading experts in style, art and design on all things Sprezzatura.

At Espresso di Manfredi we are inspired to partner with skilled artisans and crafts people, producers and personnel who share our core brand values and display that certain sense of Sprezzatura, and who may assist us in our constant endeavour to deliver a unique and finesse customer experience.

We were recently introduced to Kate Nixon, director at Busatti Australia and Houses Editor at Australian House and Garden magazine. Kate styled the recent Manfredi lunch with An Affair with Italy at Bells at Killcare, styled the Vogue Italia dinner earlier this year and is now working with Julie Manfredi Hughes to style Pretty Beach House with Busatti fabrics.

1.   What was it about Busatti that drew you to the brand?

It was the honesty and authenticity. Busatti is an eight generation Italian family company weaving artisan fabrics and luxurious essentials for the home since 1842. They are a passionate and skilled craftspeople who believe in the inherent value of the pieces they produce.

2.   How did you go about bringing Busatti to Australia?

It really was fate. My husband Tim and I were on holidays in Tuscany when we stumbled across a Busatti store in Cortona. We got chatting to the owner who sent us off to Anghiari to meet the family and the rest as they say is history. I remember Giovanni Busatti tapping his heart as we first spoke about bringing the product into Australia and this has always been our connection.

3.   Do you have a favourite fabric from the Busatti range?

Oooh that’s a tough one! I love the old and elegant damasks with their unassuming air, and the simple textured neutrals with their easy wear. The smart stripes and the contemporary geometrics…. Sprezzatura is evident in   the consistency throughout the collection and I really love them all.

4.   How would you describe your personal design aesthetic?

I love layered, warm interiors which speak of home. I believe that less can be more and attention to detail is everything. I’m drawn to provenance and patina and love the freshness of foliage and natural light.

5.   Where do you look for inspiration?

Design heroes such as Thomas O’Brien, Kit Kemp, Steven Gambrel and Nancy Meyers. Fashion, nature and beautiful books.

6.   What are some of your favourite Italian brands?

Busatti and Espresso di Manfredi of course! Bottega Veneta, Max Mara, Brunello Cucinelli and Giorgio Armani.

7.   Who defines Sprezzatura for you?

Giovanni Busatti, the eight generation patriarch of the Busatti brand. He is warm and elegant and unassuming. Confident in the way that you can be when time has proven your profession worthwhile and passionate still to learn, improve and perfect.

8.   Where is your favourite place in Italy?

Anghiari. It feels like home.