"See that wall? You can see the fire markings on it," says Gabriella Abell, referring to the fire that ripped through The Edwards in June, 2018.

With the popular bar now reopened, the split-level maker studio store forms a part of what was once The Edwards record store at 168 Parry Street.

Maker store began in August, 2018, when five Hunter makers aged between 23 and 27 decided to open a shopfront in Adamstown. All had met one another in creative circles but it was Amelia Hancock who was the "glue" that brought them together.

Hancock makes jewellery under the brand 'made by a.'.

In her last year of naturopathy studies, Abell is the maker behind holistic herbal skincare range Studium.

Olivia Halle is the driver of HALLE, which uses high quality linen and natural fibres in clothing staples.

Morgan Kerr is Valenteen, which specialises in floral designs, often dried arrangements that add layers to home interiors.

Ailie Way's label Uniform by augie includes luxe lingerie and a capsule of unisex staples designed to be worn across seasons.

The business' first stint in Adamstown was a learning curve but confirmed the makers' view there was demand for ethical and sustainable products.

"It wasn't a mass-produced, fast fashion experience you get in a shopping centre," says Kerr. "Consumers walked in and met who literally made their product, spoke to them about how they sew clothing or made jewellery. There was a deeper connection while knowing they had made a good quality, ethical purchase and were supporting local business."

The Parry Street site doubles the makers' retail footprint, importantly including a studio where the makers can work during trade.

"We've designed the space to showcase what we do," says Abell. "The consciousness of shopping and retail is changing. Lots of people are starting to appreciate where products come from, there is more curiosity and value in building those relationships rather than someone serving you far from the production."