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Brunswick might be best known for its lively bars, busy vintage shops and buzzing brunch spots but did you know it has a serene side too? If you’re keen to escape the morning rush of local cafes and crowd-filled hotspots, we’ve rounded up five things to do in Brunswick for a slower, more mindful morning.
Cut and paste a quirky collage at That Paper Joint
Find them at: 544 Sydney Road, Brunswick
Step inside That Paper Joint on Sydney Road and you’ll find yourself entranced by this retro-inspired craft studio. Walls are lined with old magazines, oversized scissors, groovy artworks and op shop treasures. The space has been carefully designed to ignite the fun and playful side in you as you learn how to make your own one-of-a-kind collage.
Max Malone, co-founder of That Paper Joint says, “Once you've got paper in one hand and scissors in the other, it can be so mindful just to concentrate on snip, snip, snipping.”
After your class, sip an unforgettable coffee at: ONA Coffee Melbourne, 22 Ovens Street, Brunswick
A two-minute stroll off Sydney Road and you’ll reach ONA Coffee’s flagship Melbourne cafe. If you think coffee is just as much about the experience as the actual drink, then this is the place for you. Not only will you pick your size and choice of milk, but also the blend. We recommend asking the barista for a “mug of oat raspberry candy!”
Wrap and bind a kokedama with The Plant Whisperer
Find them at: 231/420 Victoria Street, Brunswick
Escape the urban Melbourne sprawl at The Plant Whisperer’s luscious jungle lair just off Victoria Street. This cosy studio is packed with thriving greenery and a luxurious velvet couch to chill out on before or after the workshop. While the classes are designed to teach you how to wrap, twist and bind your own Japanese hanging moss ball, or kokedama, they’re equally about switching off and connecting with nature and those around you.
Hayley Magendans, The Plant Whisperer herself says, “There are so many proven benefits of putting your hands in dirt and even just looking at greenery calms you!”
After your class, shop for cosy knits at: Otto & Spike, 324 Victoria Street, Brunswick
Just a five-minute walk east on Victoria Street, you’ll find Australian knitwear brand Otto & Spike’s colourful shopfront. This is the perfect place to stock up on some ethically-made woollen goods to keep you cosy in the chilly Melbourne weather. Looking for more hidden gems? Check out these off-the-radar Melbourne experiences.
Engage your senses cooking at Brunswick Kitchen
Find them at: 1/288 Albert Street, Brunswick East
Tucked a few strides off Sydney Road, enter local cooking school Brunswick Kitchen and learn how to make super simple and impressively flavourful dishes. Tie your apron and notice your stresses melt away as your mind and your senses focus entirely on the process of cooking. With a strong focus of Vietnamese cuisine in the classes, you can spend the morning stirring, sautéing and sizzling good food in good company!
Chef Tracey Lister, founder of Brunswick Kitchen says, “The classes are relaxed, there’s no pressure, we’re going to make some delicious food and it doesn’t have to be any more complicated than that!”
After your class, browse contemporary art at: Counihan Gallery, 233 Sydney Road, Brunswick
Now you’re feeling fuelled, head south down Sydney Road and reach Counihan Gallery. With ever-changing exhibitions happening there’s no shortage of exciting pieces to see. Plus, there’s no entry fee, so take your time exploring the art!
Craft a custom tea blend with Impala and Peacock
Find them at: 186 Sydney Road, Brunswick
Melbourne might be known for their coffee, but their craft tea scene is just as impressive. Impala and Peacock are leading the charge with their quality brews, and regularly host classes at Ratio Cocoa Roasters on Sydney Road to teach others about the wellbeing benefits you can find in a humble cup of tea.
Sarah de Witt, co-founder of Impala and Peacock says, “The tea process is very mindful. You can't make that water boil faster and you can't make the leaves brew any faster. You really do have to tune in and take time. And I think if you enjoy those little moments of pause that can do wonders for your wellbeing.”
After your class, have a bite to eat at: The Cornish Arms Hotel, 163A Sydney Road, Brunswick
Located just opposite Ratio Cocoa Roasters, head inside The Cornish Arms Hotel and take the stairs to their rooftop bar for a hearty pub-style meal and an unbeatable view of Melbourne. Our favourite part? Everything on the menu can be done vegan—from the classic parmigiana to a Philly steak sandwich.
Sink your hands into clay at Diana Ceramic Studio
Find them at: 3/415 Lygon Street, Brunswick VIC
Diana Ceramic Studio was born out of a passion to share a love of pottery, and you’ll feel nothing short of inspired when you step inside this welcoming space. Spend the morning hand building ceramics, spinning clay on the potter’s wheel or slowly painting and glazing pre-made pieces. Whatever you choose, prepare to enter a deeply meditative state and leave feeling totally recharged.
Diana Bafi, founder of Diana Ceramic Studio says, “The tactile nature of pottery promotes mindfulness and you’ll find yourself feeling fully present in the moment while working with the clay.”
After your class, admire local street art at: Sunshine Lane, 15 Ann St, Brunswick
One of Melbourne’s best-kept secrets is less than a 10-minute walk from Diana Ceramic Studio, tucked away off Lygon Street. Sunshine Lane is just what the name suggests—a sun-lit hidden laneway full of top-quality street art. The displays are constantly changing so every visit will be totally unique!
