Behind the Hidden Cove Collection: A Conversation with Ecology’s Head of Product and Design, Jessica Steinki
With the launch of Ecology’s new Hidden Cove collection, we sat down with Jessica Steinki, Head of Product and Design, to discuss the inspiration behind the collection, the design process, and how it fits into the bigger picture of creating beautiful, yet functional homewares.
Our lovely Head of Product and Design Jess Steinki.
What shaped the idea for Hidden Cove?
Jessica: The inspiration behind Hidden Cove came from a strong desire to reconnect with nature and embrace simplicity. Globally, we're seeing a shift towards slowing down, stepping away from the hustle, and finding solace in quiet, restorative moments. I think we all crave that sense of calm, and for me, despite being a hills girl, coastal living really captures it. Hidden Cove is about creating those peaceful moments at home, even if you’re far from the sea. We took inspiration from modern beachside retreats, quiet shores, and the raw beauty of the coast to bring that relaxed, natural vibe into everyday living.
Q2: We love the dreamy coastal vibe coming through the inspiration—how did you bring that feeling of calm into the designs?
Jessica: I’m so glad you feel that! For us, it was all about capturing the sensory experiences of the coast. We played with natural, earthy tones—sandy neutrals, soft greens, and a deep smoky blue that reminds me of the ocean at dusk. These colors naturally create a calming atmosphere. Texture was key too; we used raw materials and coarse textiles to give a sense of touch and warmth. Even the prints, with shell motifs and simple watery patterns, evoke that easy, coastal feeling.
Q3: Tell us about the design process—any fun materials or techniques that helped bring Hidden Cove to life?
Jessica: The design process is always such a collaborative effort at Ecology. It starts with our mood boards, developed from global trend research, followed by our talented in-house designers creating hand-drawn artworks. From there, we collaborate across teams to refine the designs, balancing aesthetics with functionality. It’s a constant back-and-forth between design and product to ensure every piece is not only beautiful but also practical for everyday living.
One standout this season was the tote bag. We wanted to create the perfect, go-anywhere bag, so we put a lot of thought into the details. We chose durable yet lightweight materials to make it versatile for the beach, the farmer's market, or everyday use. The size was crucial—it had to be spacious enough to hold all your essentials without feeling bulky. We also focused on functionality, adding plenty of pockets to keep everything organized and easy to access. And let’s not forget the handle! We designed it to be the perfect length, so it’s comfortable to carry, whether on your shoulder or by hand. All of this while still capturing that relaxed, coastal vibe that’s at the heart of Hidden Cove.
Q4: Do you have any personal favorites from the collection? Which pieces will we find in your home?
Jessica: It’s hard to choose, but I’m definitely obsessed with the Torte cake stand. It’s one of those pieces that elevates any gathering—big or small. I love the simplicity of its glass design and the way it comes in these soft, milky colors. It’s perfect for showcasing desserts or even as a statement centerpiece. I’m big into baking, so the Torte cake stand will definitely be making regular appearances in my home over the coming months.
Another piece I’m excited about is the Wander reusable coffee cup. We wanted to create something that seamlessly fits into everyday life while being environmentally friendly. The Wander cup is made from recyclable stoneware and has that natural, earthy feel that’s a hallmark of Ecology. It’s going to be my go-to gift this Christmas season—stylish, practical, and sustainable!
Q5: How does Hidden Cove fit into the bigger Ecology story, especially with your focus on creating beautiful and practical homewares?
Jessica: Hidden Cove really speaks to what we strive for at Ecology—creating homewares that people love, use, and can build on over time. We’re always thinking about conscious consumerism as a design team. That means designing pieces that are timeless and versatile, so they can seamlessly mix and match with our previous collections and everyday offerings.
This season, we’ve also expanded our range with new categories that reflect our consideration of the whole home and the Australian lifestyle, particularly over the spring and summer months. Australians spend so much time outdoors during these seasons, so it was important for us to create pieces that move effortlessly between indoor and outdoor living. With that in mind, we’ve introduced versatile items like the new drink bottles, tote bag collection, and reusable mugs—all designed for easy use.
Explore the Hidden Cove Collection
Whether you're looking for coastal charm or practical pieces with a story, the Hidden Cove collection offers a fresh, serene update for any home. Discover more about the collection here, and bring a touch of the seaside into your space.
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