sea change [ˈsē ˌCHānj] noun a profound or notable transformation.
- a striking change, as in appearance, often for the better.
- any major transformation or alteration.
- a transformation brought about by the sea.
And here is the British Dictionary version for the definition: noun
- a seemingly magical change, as brought about by the actions of the sea
Here I am, writing Winter 2023 and definitely amid a sea change for my business. After running two stores for 30 years, we are scaling back to operate our showroom in Medford on Saturdays and by appointment only. The last few years have been incredible for our design work, and I have had the pleasure of doing homes from Los Angeles, Los Altos, SF to Seattle. This year, I am embarking on beautiful projects in Boulder and Bandon. Thus, the sea change. It does feel magical.
The global internet world as we all know it has also become ubiquitous in terms of furniture. The same pieces are being seen and sold by everyone on the net. I am becoming more and more interested in curating our showroom to be more selective, more artisanal. We will be bringing in smaller makers from Brazil, Peru, and extraordinary lighting from Greece. And again, it feels magical that we can create our reality here in beautiful southern Oregon. There is so much opportunity for this region to grow in terms of design, art and creativity.
Shopping local has never been more important. Especially after these last few years. Garrison’s home is opening a large new store as I write this, which will offer more jobs, more selection, and more opportunity for choices when shopping for furniture. There are also many fun recycled stores like Sequel in Medford or Revive in Ashland to explore the unusual… Another source for furniture is upstairs at Calathea in Jacksonville. Sarah adds her love of plants to the space which always feels cozy and bright.
So, as I meander a bit with this writing, the focus for me is my favorite things. I love linen, cotton, suedes and wool. I love deep, down-filled sofas that are cozy. I love a good, classic, leather library chair. I like handmade tiles and hardwood floors. I like things that are authentic and not faux. I like things feeling like they are perfectly suited to their owners when it comes to style. Casual, modern or glam, doesn’t matter, I love to see all the differences in design and how my clients live in their homes.
In my opinion, styles and trends come and go, but focusing on how you want to live, how you want your home to feel is what is most important.
For me, the focus is now on having more time with my family, more time with my clients, and more time to greet my customers on Saturdays at my shop.
Until next time,
Krissy
