From humble beginnings to industry leader, we’re proud to be celebrating five decades of design, resilience and reinvention.
It’s 1975. The Cold War looms, Malcolm Fraser is Prime Minister, and Australia’s economy is on the brink – hit with soaring inflation, stagnant investment, and a devalued dollar. Amidst this uncertainty and with no experience in interiors, Richard Blaiklock, Gay Bell (Richard's sister) and John Blaiklock (Richard's father) stumbled across an opportunity to take their first steps in business together acquiring the assets of a small bankrupt wallpaper importer in Sydney.
On 1st September 1975, the name Baresque was born. Transitioning from the bankrupt Fabraloom, Baresque took shape from "B" - for the Blaiklock family and Borden, one of the company’s key suppliers at the time - plus a nod to Satinesque, the leading wallpaper range of the era. Unbeknownst to us, the catchphrase “going Beresk!” was already being exclaimed by Dorrie Evans, leading lady in the hit TV sitcom Number 96 – a coincidental but fitting malapropism for going berserk or crazy, capturing both the spirit of the business at the time and giving us a head start in brand recognition.
The early years were gritty and hands-on, with slow importing and limited communication. Yet within weeks, co-founders Richard Blaiklock and Gay Bell were travelling the globe - from the US to Japan to Scandinavia - chasing the very best products, partners and possibilities for Australian interiors.
Half a century later, few could have predicted that this modest venture would grow into Baresque Group - a global leader in design-driven solutions for commercial and public spaces. That same commitment to quality, innovation and strong relationships remains unchanged. Technology and trends have evolved, but the golden thread - the people, partnerships and passion for making spaces better - continues to define us.
Step inside our 50 year story and discover the moments that have made this milestone so special. Explore ‘Our Golden Thread’ 50th Anniversary book today.
