There’s a new store on the block in Colombo that has become the talk of the town. Three by TPV introduces something novel and snazzy, an element that will add an artsy touch to your look and home.
Words Keshini de Silva
They do it all. The colourful and the earthen lean off the shiny white isles of the chic Three by TPV on Duplication Road. The concept is lifestyle, yet the theme is originality, animals and of course everything that catches the eye of owners Thomas, Patrick and Vadim; hence the name “TPV”.
Leaving the cold of Sweden, Thomas, Patrick and Vadim, headed to the endless summer in Sri Lanka seeking to create a new narrative. “Like the three musketeers”, as Patrick puts it, they were on a quest. The boutiques in Galle, Negombo and Colombo are merely the begining.
The Colombo store collection is a seamless fusion of artsy and elegant, vibrant and pristine and especially modern and old. The ‘bookshelf chair’ that has been the longing of every book worm takes pride of place, yet like all the items in store it comes with the boutique’s stamp of vibrancy. Dainty feather earrings, striking bead bracelets, bejeweled ornaments and Vadim’s jewellery line dangle across the store. Snowy Native American headdresses and colourful dreamcatchers, tasteful sculptures including Thomas’ own faceless busts covered with soda cans, chunky jewellery and, a personal favourite, the sculpture “From Sri Lanka with Love” masked in Sri Lankan stamps add character. Customers are in their groove as they shop, while club music echoes through the store.
How does an item make it to the store? It really depends on the trio, there are no rules; if the TPV want it in their home or would wear it then it would be in store. “You need to love what you sell”, says Thomas.
Each partner adds their own dynamic. Joining forces to establish the Hollywood-patronised Vincent Shoe Store, Thomas and Patrick have a flair for identifying what’s right for the customer. The pair are just the right combination, with Thomas’ passionate spontaneity and Patrick being the man with a plan. A talented make-up artist, Vadim contributes with his knack for colour, fashion and perfectionism. His eye for detail completes this dream team. Their partnership is cemented by their love for dogs and passion to help strays.
Born from their heritage, a Scandinavian touch is introduced to Three by TVP. Yet, the diversity on display has been inspired by the trio’s travels across the globe; dawn visits to the bazaars and maintaining a watchful eye for stylish fabrics as they traverse the streets. What’s most interesting is that 80 per cent of the collection is manufactured in Sri Lanka; talented craftsmanship is at their disposal.
Their easygoing creativity echoes through the store. Putting their uninhibited artistry to good use the trio also create stylish interiors. To offer us a sneak peek Patrick even unravelled secret plans of a new project in the South.
Complacency is not Thomas, Patrick and Vadim’s game; the trio are always bouncing ideas about and are inspired by their joint talents. Right now they are fashioning a linen line. Stitched in Sri Lanka, the designs with in-style embroidery scream “Watch out Colombo!”.
21 R A De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 4
(94 11) 205 5212,
thethreebytpv.com
