This project is a culmination of all of my strengths under one umbrella, namely, Distrikt by Mia. A space with a difference in Wicklow Port. Promising to become a creative hub housing both a gallery/exhibition space and a homewares and interiors store. Once a month, I will open up the gallery space within the shop to hold an art exhibition. These exhibitions will run for approximately 10 days. I am hoping to collaborate with local businesses (cafes, restaurants, wine shops) for the openings (nibbles and wine from various local establishments). A percentage of exhibition sales will go to the chosen local charity of the artist.
I am currently sourcing a select range of interiors and homeware products from Ireland, Morocco, France, Germany, and Denmark. Beautiful pieces to suit every pocket. This is a vision that I have held for many years.
With your help, these timeline goals can be achieved:
March
· Recreate ceiling/begin work on conversion of office space and kitchen area.
· Designing and building a sales area.
· Begin work on the gallery space
· Electric
April
· Paneling of walls
· Painting of the whole shop
· Building of display units
· Building of jewellery display counter
· Beginning the changes to the shop front
May
· Final touches
· Finishing the shop front
Flooring , fitting and materials €850
Electrics , €900
Panelling, Materials, fitting €1750
Shelving, materials (steel and wood) €1650
Creating office space €1000
Sales counter, Incorporating glass jewellery display drawers. Materials and fitting €2800
Shop frontage and sign €750
Paint, €380 (The team will help me paint)
Fund it Commission
Total €10,080
My background is in interiors and furniture retail. I also returned as a mature student to do a degree in design at NCAD. In a parallel life, I am the co founder of The Jazz Vocal Workshop. My Team consists of a systems and admin executive, Jennifer Parsons. Barbara Garber Sales and style consultant. Mark Meakin, sales/deliveries and myself full-time sales, style consultant and buyer. Plus an additional part-timer.
The only risk that may cause delays (but not completion) of the project are those that the pandemic presents. However, with my online shop www.distriktbymia.com the show will stay on the road at all times. (www.miapdesign.com is being redesigned at the moment).
I have found a fabulous premises that has affordable rent in the exact area that I have been envisioning. My funds are limited to my small savings and my partner investing a small sum, this will enable me to buy my initial stock.
However, a further €11,000 is required to cover the fit-out of the shop in order to make it the design destination store that I am confident it will be.
Thanks for taking the time to read about my project.
This is a dream come true for me. Every euro will be used to make this a beautiful design destination. Looking forward to welcoming and showing you what you have helped me achieve.
Thank you
Images of the space