It was something of a lightbulb moment. While washing the dishes one morning, molecular biologist Natasha Malkov realised there was a gap in the market for simple and stylish sponges – enter BARKLY BASICS.
Chevron kitchen sponge, $6.95 (two-pack)
“I was washing the dishes when I looked down at the bright yellow sponge in the sink and thought that there must exist a sponge with a bit more style!” says Natasha, who has had an interesting career trajectory to say the least.
“I am a molecular biologist by profession with a Ph.D from the University of Melbourne. My Ph.D was based on breast cancer research and I’m glad to have contributed to the jigsaw puzzle of finding a cure,” says Natasha who always had a creative bent and appetite for new product design.
Cellulose sponge, $6.40 (pack of three)
After researching the market, Natasha discovered that there wasn’t a single design-driven sponge on the market. “I set out to make the idea become a reality and it has taken over a year to develop the products.”
We love the range’s simple design and monochromatic colour scheme. “The BARKLY BASICS customer is one that appreciates that less is more. My products are simple in design and appearance and blend in with your kitchen rather than stand out,” says Natasha.
Scourer pad dish stick, $8.50
With myriad stockists including 13 boutique gift stores in Australia, five boutique supermarkets in Melbourne and international retailers in Hong Kong and New Zealand, the future is looking bright for the innovative brand. “We expect to have many more stockists come on board this year,” says Natasha.
BARKLY BASICS creative director Natasha Malkov
And of her design and business mantra? “Sometimes the simplest things are overlooked. Being mindful allows you to hone in on the simple things and sometimes opportunities present themselves,” says Natasha.
Amen to that.
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