Epoche Toys and Gifts in Kallista

I’m a little ashamed to admit that I had been living in the Dandenongs for a good two or three years before I first discovered Epoche. They describe their store as an “aesthetically beautiful heart space [which] enkindles a sense of deep warmth and welcome embrace” and that it does. Inspired by the educational model of Rudolf Steiner and Waldorf education the store offers a wide range of whimsical and ethically sourced toys and gifts. If your soul needs a little lift be sure to follow their Instagram feed as their images and updates inspire the child within.

Epoche’s Façade and “Front Room”

One of my favourite things about Epoche is their stone frontage and their window displays which are regularly updated and are simply magical. When you enter you are literally transported to a whimsical little corner of the world. There are high quality art supplies, beautiful baby clothes, wooden figurines and seasonal handmade dolls. Be sure to take in the actual displays as the tables and shelving are not your regular shop fittings.

The “Middle” or “Toy Room”

The central space at Epoche is a child’s dream with an absolutely stunning array of toys and curiosities. Puzzles, wooden toys, handmade dolls and more are plentiful and if you have little ones with you they will be sure to be asking “Can I have………?”.

The “Back Room” at Epoche

The final room at Epoche is more “adult” with a beautifully curated collection of homewares, clothing, note books, adult puzzles and books. It has a certain zen to it and the way the morning sunshine comes through the rear courtyard and lights the space is simply beautiful.

Final Words

If you are coming to the Dandenongs be sure to stop by Epoche. Even if you don’t have children or need a gift their displays and front window are reason enough to visit.

After you are done exploring the little hamlet of Kallista jump back in the car and drive 5 minutes up the road for a walk through the famous Alfred Nicholas Gardens. If forests and bush are more your thing the Sherbrooke section of Dandenong Ranges National Park is nearby. Once you have worked up an appetite stop by the newly relocated Proserpina Bakehouse for a treat, be it sweet or savoury.

The Important Details

Address: 77A Monbulk Road, Kallista

Website: https://www.epoche.com.au

Phone: (03) 9755 1952

Open: 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday and 11am-4pm Sunday

If you would like to nominate a local small business for me to photograph and profile drop their name in the comments below.

I ACKNOWLEDGE THE BUNURONG AND WURUNDJERI PEOPLE WHO ARE THE TRADITIONAL OWNERS OF THE LAND ON WHICH I PHOTOGRAPH.
I PAY MY RESPECTS TO THEIR ELDERS; PAST, PRESENT AND EMERGING.