JR Studio Design Blog

“My heart has always been divided between the vestals of constancy and the avatars of change.”

- Yves Saint Laurent, 1936 – 2008

I really responded to this statement when I read it at the Yves Saint Laurent retrospective at San Francisco’s De Young Museum.  It’s true and I feel the same way…to some extent.  I’ve always been attracted to both the new and the old.  The home I grew up in was a constant evolution of modern necessities mixed into its traditional landscape – the exercycle and Apple 2E had to go somewhere!  (Please note, however, I have to question the concept of an exercise bike sharing space with the Living Room for anyone but Lance Armstrong, but my interior stylings were lost to the greater good at that time…)  Today, the interiors I create display an easy marriage of modern function, vintage comforts and a little joie de vivre.  My design sense has been labeled “eclectic”, “beautifully functional,” and “innovative.”  Not a bad mix in my opinion. 

Our eclectic spirit comes from a philosophy we describe as “Freshly Familiar.” What does that mean? We strive to retain the familiar qualities of the past while working with a fresh approach that takes advantage of today’s modern lifestyles.  In our opinion, a true “home” has as much a story as your wedding, your first child or your latest vacation.  These exciting moments were created by a series of events that add meaning to the outcome – much the same way that a home’s story cannot be created by one trip to the local furniture store. 

We start by evaluating the home’s story itself and its main characters – our clients.  This gives us insights as to influential architectural elements, function and necessity.   We address this research with an eye on today’s modern ammenities and a bit of romance for personality. To this, we layer in a mix of hardworking pieces that are meant to last generations and unique vintage furnishings that speak of character and charm.  The result is a unique assemblage of items that speak to each other through both form and function with a few surprises to keep things interesting.   Yes, you can have a home that is “eclectic” and “innovative” yet “beautifully functional.”  

So what do we think of constancy and change?  ”Be not divided between the “vestals of constancy and the avatars of change.  Be united by them instead!”

Take a look at some of the rooms created with our “Freshly Familiar” approach. 

And read more about the creative force who was Yves Saint Laurent at Wikipedia.

photo credit: Philippe Wojazer, AU