Origin
TANORA is an independent design studio rooted in two worlds: the ancestral raffia ateliers of Madagascar and the refined aesthetic of contemporary Australia.
Founded by Manon and Will in 2016, TANORA translates generations of Malagasy craft into pieces designed for modern living.
Each collection blends Australian design sensibility with over 150 traditional raffia techniques - from French bobbin lace to intricate crochet - practised by artisans in our family workshop.
The name TANORA means 'youth' in Malagasy. It represents our investment in the next generation of makers, preserving ancestral techniques while creating pathways to economic independence.
Philosophy
We design for longevity. Every TANORA piece is shaped by the philosophy of quiet luxury: understated, intentional, built to last.
Raffia is among the world's most sustainable materials. The harvesting methods protect the palm's health, ensuring minimal environmental impact. We work exclusively with natural dyes - coffee, turmeric, tea, and many more.
We honour the slow, deliberate pace of handcraft. Our workshop in Antananarivo, co-founder Manon's hometown, was designed to be an inspiring place to work - not a factory, but a space where artisans feel part of the brand, fully immersed in TANORA's vision and aesthetic.
We source the highest grade raffia from the Boeny region, co-founder Will's homeland. Every step of the chain is controlled and looked after, built on close relationships with our partners. This integration ensures quality, traceability, and fair compensation at every stage. 90% of our artisans are women working under fair trade conditions. Our mission is economic empowerment through exceptional craft.
The Studio Today
Designed in Australia. Handcrafted in Madagascar. We've spent a decade collaborating with luxury fashion houses, translating Madagascar's heritage into pieces for international runways and private collections. From haute couture to coastal homes, TANORA occupies the space between heritage and modernity.
What began in a family workshop now supports 90+ artisans, and has been part of Nest's Guild and Accelerator programs for six years. Where ancient technique meets contemporary design, where slow craft answers fast fashion, where every stitch carries a story.