Since Arthur G’s humble beginnings in a suburban garage in 1979, the furniture company has come a long way.

What started as a mere hobby for Greek migrant Arthur Georgopoulos has developed into an upmarket brand now recognised worldwide.
“He would spend some time in his garage when he had spare time making and designing furniture.

“For a few weeks he hit the road and drove around with the station wagon, showing retailers. One decided to try it on consignment, they sold one and it was a flow-on effect,” explains Leonard Georgopoulos, who came aboard the family business 10 years ago as managing director.

Now in his 60s, although Arthur continues to play a significant role in the design process, the overall aesthetic has admittedly changed, evolving with global trends.

“Our products have become more contemporary. Most pieces are quite timeless, so they’re designed to still look good after 10 or so years. With our end of the market you are investing in quality and well-made furniture,” Leonard tells Neos Kosmos.

Along with the brand’s core range of sofas, chairs, beds and shelving, the company, endeavouring to cater to each customer’s need, also offer the service of custom and bespoke pieces.

More recently, the company joined forces with some of the world’s best designers and interior architects, including Diane Bergeron and Alexander Lotersztain, to create exclusive and limited edition collections. Passionate about continuing his father’s work, while endeavouring to leave a mark of his own on the company, the managing director has maintained the quality of the brand while expanding its presence. 

Predominantly a wholesaler, the 35-year-old has given Arthur G a greater retail presence, now with showrooms around the country in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth.

“When I came in I decided that we needed to control our own destiny and that Arthur G the brand was a manufacturer but could also become a retailer.

“This way we control the entire chain of events, and deal with the end user as well.”

An important step for the company has been its environmental certification, having received the GECA Environmental Choice Award in 2008. Using only the best quality raw materials and exquisite fabrics and natural leathers from around the world, customers can rest assured that all aspects of the manufacturing process are eco-friendly. This has also made their product appealing for a number of commercial projects, including Hamilton Island Airport, Hayman Island Resort, Sheraton on the Park in Sydney, and Village Cinemas. But the real key to success for Arthur G appears to be in staying true to their roots.

While evolving with the times and catering to the consumer’s needs and wants, they have remained true to themselves, careful not to steer away from where the passion stems: Australian quality craftsmanship.

“What plays an important role in our aesthetic is the craftsmanship, the way we bring it all together. When we design something we also have in mind that the build and workmanship have to be right. You could say it’s contemporary design, but at the same time it’s got classic and timeless ties and is suitable for any setting.”

Despite the trade liberalisation of the 1980s, when the bulk of manufacturing started its transition offshore, Arthur G has held its ground, designed and constructed from start to finish in the Victorian suburb of Huntingdale, as it was some 35 years ago.

“To manufacture and design furniture here in Australia is quite niche, especially at our end of the market – there’s not many of us and to be honest, in the last few years there’s probably been a shift back and a real appreciation for a good Australian-made product.”

Which is precisely what Arthur G is all about.

Having gone from strength to strength over the last 10 years, Leonard’s passion for the brand and the industry as a whole is unquestionable.
“We believe people should be embracing an Australian-made product as opposed to products that are made in South East Asia.

“We have some very skilled tradespeople in Australia. The talent’s there, so we’re going to continue to nurture that and continue to expand and grow the Australian market.”