Are there any domestic tips you would suggest for styling a space to feel more like a home?
"I think it’s the personal that makes a house a home. I love the heirloom things that people have mixed in with their furniture — celebrate the things that have history. Those are the pieces that make your home personal. To me, there is nothing worse than untouchable decorating lifted from a magazine or catalog. Decorate so that your kids can jump on the couch. Those are the memories you will cherish. Slipcovers are amazing for those early years! Save the expensive upholstery for a couple of years and enjoy it all."
What do you think is most important to remember, in terms of designing and decorating a space, when living with a significant other/and or children?
"Make it comfortable for everyone. Work with your significant other on the decor. There is always a great
style compromise. When there are kids involved, avoid designing areas where they can’t go. The old notion of the 'sitting room' where kids were banned seems so antiquated. Trust me, if you don’t want them somewhere, that is the place they gravitate towards."
Photos: Courtesy of Christiane Lemieux
"Large wicker baskets by the front door or under a table in the foyer are indispensable for frequently worn
shoes and boots. Make your "useless" things useful. All my empty Smythson and Ladurée boxes double as storage for unsightly hairbands, superfluous business cards, and general miscellany that I don't want to stare at every day, but can't seem to part with. Stacks of coffee table books make great side tables that
are easily dismantled should you need to reference one. Georg Jensen's Alfredo glass and stainless steel
storage canisters are a chic way of storing and adding some uniformity to the kitchen or bathroom. And —
this is definitely not elegant, but we cook too much to skimp on practicality — lazy susans in the kitchen for
organizing spices. For cleaning countertops I always buy Mrs. Meyer's lavender or lemon verbena all purpose cleaner. Last but certainly not least, Savon de Marseille remains the most effective soap I've ever met."