Reader Design: Lauren's Stylish Studio

There's a prolific theme out there around doing more with less - mainly more with less time, in my experience. But no one does it better in the realm of design as Lauren, a millennial living in Montreal, Quebec. 

She lives in just 500 square feet, and it does double duty as both her work and living space. But that tiny space is used to its absolute maximum to create a home that is thoughtful, bright, airy, and inspiring. 

Decorating her home started as a creative outlet from her corporate e-commerce job and has turned in to a full on passion project. 

“I believe your surroundings can really influence your state of mind so I try to create spaces that are not only visually attractive, but also carry a peaceful energy. I have loved sharing this message through my decorating work. When people tell me they love how it feels to be in my place then I know I have achieved my goal of creating a unique and welcoming space. ”

She draws influence from mid-century modern, eclectic, and classic Parisian design, and it works out so so so well. As Lauren intentionally knows, the mix of all those elements creates a space that is super interesting and intriguing but still cohesive. 

She also learned a lot about herself. Her affinity to minimalism, for one. 

“Throughout this experience I have learned that minimal living is actually quite therapeutic. Not feeling crowded by so much “stuff” lets you appreciate each piece you fill your home with, and what once seemed like a challenge to live in a small studio space has become something I am quite proud of.”

A tenet of that minimalistic approach is investing in really high-quality pieces, which Lauren has done in her lighting and art choices. 

“With limited square footage and wall space, taking advantage of my ceiling height with a bold light was how I added a statement piece which has become a main feature of my home. Art is also something worth investing in because it is so personal to who you are. When I moved to a new city I really wanted to find art by a local artist so it felt like an extension of my experience in a new place. I was lucky enough to find a wonderful artist named Lysa Jordan who did 2 amazing large canvases for me. They complement my space so well, but also tell a story of my journey. ”

Lauren, you have this whole work/life balance, all in one place, totally figured out. Thank you for sharing it with us today! Follow Lauren along on Instagram @livingbylo for more... you will not regret it. And to swoon over that amazing art, check out @lysajordan_.

Have a lovely weekend, mutts, and see you all next week! 

Reader Design: Amira's Boho Home

At 550 square feet, Amira's Washington, DC space packs a serious punch with a seemingly small footprint. When you enter the door, it's not the decor that captures you, or the finishes, or furniture. 

It's a feeling. 

Amira set out to create an interesting space, one that accurately reflects her own global third culture kid upbringing in Egypt, Abu Dhabi, and New England and one that is warm, collected, and beautifully curated. 

From Amira:

“The most inviting homes, and humans, are sanctuaries that make us feel, and inspire us to be, our best selves. I love the Danish concept of hygge because its definition embodies the positive impact that environments can have on our well-being.”

Things weren't always as curated as they clearly now are. When Amira moved across the world from Abu Dhabi six years ago, she defaulted to the same thing maybe of us do: the easy thing. She loaded up with items from big box retailers and called it a day. That all changed once she bought the home she lovingly refers to as the "treehouse."

“I wanted to create a space that couldn’t be defined as anything but a place people wanted to spend time. Homes are personal - and, while I’m so inspired by many interior designers and the trends they embue, I was selective and patient in the process.

Making my home a delightful experience for my guests is a priority. Taking my time has allowed me to decorate with pieces that have stories I can share with guests, either because they’re made by artists I know personally or found on a memorable trip… or that I found at a neighborhood store where I’ve built relationships with the shopkeepers. Supporting local businesses and budding artists and makers has a huge influence on what I buy.”

And so the collecting began. If you mutts have the same observations as me, you'll see that two elements in particular tie Amira's home together: #1 everything comfy & cozy (blankets, poufs, and pillows) and #2 PLANTS. 

“Let’s be honest. I love everything in my home, but Dolly’s the real star. She’s the graceful fiddle leaf fig tree you see in the photos. I brought her home before I had any furniture, so she’s been a faithful presence and has inspired my love of plants. I named her after my favorite florist Dolores, who found her for me. ”

Other homeowner favorites: the mantle she created with found materials from a Leesburg, VA treasure trove; the round hallway mirror which she ran into traffic for at the Georgetown Flea Market; and the bright light of the dining nook.  

It is all just so exactly right. Amira, we're giving you a big StyleMutt thumbs up and totally commend you for focusing on comfort and individuality with your space. We're hooked. 

Follow Amira along in Instagram @amiraelgawly for more.

And on a personal note, thank you to the SMH community for the kind thoughts and well wishes this week for my engagement. What a wonderful group this is! 

See you next week,

Reader Design: Jillian's Glam Getaway

Jillian and I have so much in common: a history in one of the best cities ever, Richmond, VA (school for her, growing up for me); a love for New York City; and a government day job in Washington, D.C. Despite those similarities and the fact that we live 15 minutes away from each other, we have never met (Jillian, we must change that!). 

But those overlaps are why I am so excited to show off the home Jillian and her boyfriend have created in Bethesda, Maryland.

This space is just their in-between place - a spot to relax after work and rest their heads until they find a place to buy in the area. But just because it's not part of the long-term plan doesn't mean it can't feel special. 

From Jillian:

“I’ve always loved this quote from Bunny Williams: “If you love something, it will work. That is the only real rule.” Through fashion or interior design, I find items that speak to me and I allow them the space and the confidence to coincide together. If I love something, whether it’s art or furniture and it makes me happy to live beside it everyday, that’s more valuable to me than anything. To me your place has to host sentimental value…only collect the pieces that tug at your heartstrings.”

Jillian's heartstrings feel the pull when they're around interesting historical details, understated glam elements, Parisian flair, and traditional silhouettes - all of which are seen clearly in this cute one bedroom apartment. 

In the living room, one of the best finds is the bar cabinet. 

“I scored the bar cabinet in Richmond (my beloved college town) - I spotted it in the far back corner of the store, and I just had that feeling. I have wanted a bar cabinet for years, and this piece is not only incredibly sturdy but the bleached walnut details are so unique. It was a great investment, and I am so glad I decided to buy it.”

In the bedroom, Jillian opted out of a traditional headboard by replacing it with a bright piece of seriously incredible abstract art. 

“I’m so in love with the piece that hangs over our bed. It’s the first original piece we bought together as a couple. It’s vibrant and strong, and it makes me happy everyday to wake up to it. ”

This place has such a clear personality and is 100% Jillian, 100% of the time. It's authenticity and intrigue shine through in every single corner, and I am loving it.

Jillian, thanks for welcoming us in for a visit. For a place that is allegedly intermediate, it sure does feel like home. Follow Jillian along on Instagram @jqg_ for more.