Our Story

At the Southernmost part of Tasmania, during the quiet winter of 2013, we — Nina Koops and Adam Mullard — turned a shared dream into reality. We opened the doors to our very own fabrication workshop, fuelled by nothing more than grit, creativity, and a deep love for making things with our hands.

In those early days, we threw ourselves into all kinds of metal fabrication — from custom builds to food vans, trailers, and trucks. Slowly, steadily, we grew. Our small workshop became a hive of creativity and industry, with a team of eight skilled makers who felt more like family than employees.

But then came the challenges we never saw coming.

First, the devastating Huon bushfires of 2019. Then, not long after, COVID swept in — and in a matter of days, we lost 90% of our business. Years of hard work were suddenly on the brink.

But what we did still have was an idea we had been quietly experimenting with: creating our own range of handmade home and garden wares. Inspired by natural textures, timeworn beauty, and the artistry of aged metal, Ninapatina was born — a name that blends Nina with patina, the rich rusted finish we love for its raw, organic charm.

What began as a small side project quickly took root. We opened a humble little shop inside a shipping container at our workshop. It was simple, but the response was overwhelming — within just six months, we’d outgrown it.

That’s when we stumbled across an old cherry and apple packing shed in Ranelagh. It was worn, weathered, and full of forgotten character — and it felt like fate. We lovingly restored it, keeping its original bones and breathing new life into every corner. In February 2021, we opened our doors.

Since then, Ninapatina has blossomed into something truly special — a thriving, soulful space where art, craftsmanship, and storytelling come together. Every piece we make is a reflection of resilience, creativity, and a deep love for honest, beautiful materials.

We’re still here, still creating, and still so grateful for every person who walks through our door.