Spring in the Eyes of James St

You wouldn’t be alone if you were to make the apt observation that this year’s shift from cooler weather to that which is warm has brought with it a certain kind of buzz. It’s one that feels exciting, teeming with life and potential, whilst casting a carefree languid haze in its wake.

For us, this time of year is epitomised by late afternoon swims, freshly starched whites, and a refusal to wear anything other than sandals. But what does spring mean to James St? Read on to find out what comes to mind when five members of our community are asked this very question.

Deborah Sams – Co-founder and Creative Director at Bassike
As the weather warms and spring settles in, we start to reach for different pieces in our wardrobe to suit the balmy days, the heavier layers are removed, and the light and effortless pieces are reintroduced. The sheer Longerline Jersey Skirt paired with the Athletic Rib Tank: this look is lightweight and easy – perfect for warmer days or layering. It’s multi-purpose, easy to wear for both casual and more dressed-up occasions. This is our take on event season: simple, elevated, and effortlessly Bassike.

Bryan Kelly – Head Chef at Hellenika
We know spring has arrived at Hellenika when our Noosa Reds start showing off – same grower, same soil, but suddenly they come in bigger, sweeter, juicier. We’re the only restaurant in Brisbane that gets these tomatoes, and they really come alive in our Dakos at this time of year. We keep it traditional – rye rusk, manouri cheese, Kalamata olives and a few sprigs of samphire – but it’s the tomatoes that do all the heavy lifting. There’s no contemporary twist, nothing naff – when something’s that good, you just get out of its way and let it speak for itself.

Same story with spring lamb, which doesn’t need much introduction. Our paidakia are unbeatable right now – tender, fresh, full of flavour without needing much help. We serve them simply because they don’t need dressing up.

Shelley Simpson – Designer, Founder and CEO at Mud Australia
As the weather shifts, I like to think about how the table can feel relaxed yet considered. Setting it for spring is about ease, with pieces that feel soft in colour and form and encourage gathering without fuss. I’m drawn to lighter tones and simple settings that let food and conversation take centre stage. When the days get warmer, dining should feel effortless, a reflection of the season itself, calm, bright and full of possibility.

Lauren Milne – Brisbane Flagship Manager at RATIONALE
Once the weather starts warming up, I’m ready to shed the layers and embrace lighter dressing. But after winter, my skin often feels dry, dull, and in need of revival. That’s where The Illuminating Body Duo comes in. This cleanser and crème pairing restores life to the skin, working in harmony to purify, hydrate, and visibly refine. Enriched with B-Group Vitamins, ceramides, and lactic acid, it leaves skin soft, resilient, and radiant.

Catherine Malouf – Co-owner of The Calile Hotel
Spring is really the best time to visit James St, especially, The Calile.  Up on the rooftop, our garden is buzzing (literally) with our own honeybees, and beds of edible flowers and produce are in full bloom. The whole place feels more alive, full of colour and light. It is my favourite viewpoint of the hotel. I love sneaking up there to take it all in and watch our guests loving the sunshine, the pool and the hospitality of Hellenika.  A little tip, if you’re staying at the hotel and would like to see our rooftop garden at its best, just ask our Guest Relations team as they would be delighted to show you our special spot.