Like many, when sisters Renee McGrath and Natalie Muscatello had children, they desperately wanted to find a job that was flexible around motherhood. Unlike many, that job actually turned into their dream career.
Launching children’s decor label Toucan in 2014, Natalie, who has a background in retail and design, and Renee, in preschool teaching, combined both their skills to create an online shop full of art prints, bedding, garlands and rugs.
With the aim to create beautiful, modern spaces where children (and their dreams) can grow, the art prints are designed and printed by the sisterly duo, with all other products being sourced ethically with quality and longevity in mind. “It’s important to us that our designs are contemporary and generate positive energy,” explains Renee. “We want to give kids the opportunity to visualise their true potential.”
Specialising in prints, for the sisters, art has always been the most important part of a room. “Art brings such a beautiful energy to an interior,” says Natalie. “It provides a talking point, helps to frame the space and injects it with colour and creativity.”
With a large suite of art prints on offer, their capsule collection draws upon inspirational quotes, ensuring motivation is never more than a glance away. “Our timeless and charming art pieces will dress your walls with hope, inspiration, motivation and positive thoughts including: ‘Dream Big Little One,’ ‘From Little Things’ and ‘Good Vibes Only,’” explains Natalie. “For something a little sweeter (and without a quote), children will just love our favourite product, ‘Golide Ice-cream’ which is fun, colourful and makes us smile! Or alternatively, be wild and free with the ‘Flamingo Heart,’ ‘Water Coloured Deer,’ or ‘Love you more than I could Bear.'”
While they love their art, the sisters aren’t leaving the rest of the business behind. With Toucan on the upward trajectory, they have recently relocated to a larger space and have a whole range of new ideas in mind. “We’re about to have a creative explosion,” says Renee. “We have lots of fun, new designs in mind and are expanding our linen range to include a whole new suite of products for the nursery room.” Watch this space!