I love to incorporate into my work objects that have a handmade, artisanal quality. It could be a beautifully sculpted ceramic vase, a woven seagrass basket or a graphic abstract painting. Handmade items with their organic shapes and slight imperfections are the perfect counterbalance to a thoughtful, refined space.

As a designer, it makes me feel good to specify handmade, artisanal products. In doing so, I know that I am supporting small businesses and craftspeople who pour their heart and soul into their work. It is especially rewarding to know that a product that I have specified might help an artisan in a remote village thousands of miles away who is less fortunate yet amazingly skilled and hardworking. Women in Rwanda make hand made bowls and baskets that empower them to contribute to their economy. I believe that their energy and life story transfers into the product that they create. Crafting an item out of nothing is a true expression of self. When placed in our homes, these precious items connect us to an individual or community far away. Isn’t that amazing?!

“Handmade items with their organic shapes and slight imperfections are the perfect counterbalance to a thoughtful, refined space. ”

We are fortunate here on the beautiful West Coast. Our stunning landscape serves as natural inspiration for a myriad of talented local artisans. The beautiful objects that they create are a natural fit in many West Coast interiors.

One of the many rewarding aspects of my job is to work with my clients on their new build projects. It is exciting to be able to source and specify brand new appliances, new furniture, new carpet and tile… and new everything! The options are endless! There is a cookie cutter perfection to these products which is typical of items that are mass produced. I certainly don’t have a problem with mass productions…it is a natural supply and demand relationship. However, mass produced items can sometimes leave a new space feeling flat and lacking distinction. Quality handmade items incorporated into a finished space inject a sense of depth and soul to the space. When thoughtfully placed they will be an admired focal point in my client’s space. A beautifully carved alabaster sculpture or a thought-provoking abstract painting will certainly foster curiosity and inspire conversation amongst visiting family and friends.

“Quality handmade items incorporated into a finished space inject a sense of depth and soul to the space.”

My clients want their spaces to feel unique and original. They want their home to reflect THEIR life and lifestyle. They are not interested in replicating every detail they have seen in a show home or a friends house. One-of-a-kind handmade pieces are the perfect solution to personalize my clients space. Handmade items cannot be duplicated, and no two handmade items are exactly alike. Subtle and, at times, obvious variations in texture, color, shape and grain are an inherent quality in objects that are handmade.

My goal as a designer is to help my clients experience their life in the best way. Our environment, and specifically, where we live, is instrumental to our feeling of wellness. Handmade items not only have a palpable beauty that is experienced visually but also an intangible essence that exists within their form. The way that we experience and connect with our home is deepened when we incorporate beautiful artisanal pieces that tell a tale.

“My goal as a designer is to help my clients experience their life in the best way.”

Do you believe that handmade objects are an important addition to your home? I would love to help you find the perfect items to enhance your space.

I love to incorporate handmade items into my work