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Subtly situated on the fourth floor of an office building on Grenfell Street, 4th Elevator is a hidden gem showcasing a unique design collection from Australia and beyond.

Owners Eric and Dexter connected through their shared love of music and aesthetically pleasing design. Over time, they collaborated on several musical projects, and when the moment was right, their journey led to the creation of 4th Elevator—a synergy of their personal design collections.

Straddling a unique space between a gallery and a museum, 4th Elevator is described by its operators as a mini modernist museum. As the only permanent collection of its kind in Australia, it offers a glimpse into the recent design past, featuring items ranging from furniture to gaming consoles, with an emphasis on recognising and showcasing Adelaide’s and Australia’s contributions to the discipline.

I find it interesting that 4th Elevator contrasts with traditional museums, often showcasing older items with a colonial historical lens. Unlike an art gallery, where items are primarily for the stimulation of the senses, the pieces at 4th Elevator serve a dual purpose: they are both practical and aesthetically pleasing, encapsulating a time that beckons a personal connection.

As you explore 4th Elevator, you might spot something familiar, like a strikingly colourful plastic chair your grandma had or an early game console that brings back childhood memories. The collection offers a glimpse into a not-so-distant past. Back then, objects had a tangible presence—they were built to last, visually striking, playfully inviting, and tactilely satisfying. It was a time when listening to a CD in a Discman required mindfulness, and the slower pace encouraged a more intentional engagement with what you chose to listen to, interact with, or experience.

Moreover, the collection is a testament to Adelaide’s significant contribution to Australia’s design history. Pieces by sculptor Owen Broughton and designer Roger McKnight, though created in the late 20th century, still feel modern, demonstrating the timelessness of good design. The collection not only preserves the legacy of timeless design but also acts as a catalyst for inspiring a new generation of designers. As Eric remarked, ‘It gets them excited—they could be the next Australian designer.’

You don’t need to be a design head to appreciate 4th Elevator. As you walk around, you’ll discover not just a collection of designs, but also memories—echoes of a simpler, more tangible past. 4th Elevator is open every second weekend of the month. For more information, check out their .