Marin County via JUTE | decor + travel

One of the most exciting parts of starting cecyj.com has been the people I meet.  Whether exploring an island, stumbling into a beautiful design store or making a new social media connection, the splendid living community is positive, fun and extremely supportive.

Bay Area local, Alison Davin, the talented interior designer behind Jute, was no exception.  Alison graciously shared her design story, tips and insider knowledge on Marin County… or the “north side” of the bay.

Q & A with Alison: Inspiration & Splendid Living Tips

Q: When did you decide you wanted to be an interior designer?

A: In my early twenties, while working in art in LA.

 

Q: What was the most difficult part of breaking into the interior design business?

A: It wasn’t difficult, just a lot of hard work.  Running any business is tough, no matter how much you love your job.

 

Q: What is your advice for interior designers launching their career?

A: If you aren’t business savvy, hire someone who is to be part of your team.

Q: You have extensive experience with art and antiques.  What advice can you offer someone looking to buy a piece for the first time?

A: Go with your gut.  You have to love art and antiques and should invest in pieces you’ll have for a lifetime.

 

Q: What pieces of furniture for our home should we splurge on?

A: Dining room table, lighting, and great artwork.

 

Q: What pieces of furniture should we save on?

A: Dining room chairs.  They can be very pricey, especially if you are purchasing 8 or 10.  If you have a great table and lighting, you don’t need to spend here.

Q: What is your best advice for splendid living and creating the spirit of home?

A: Don’t worry if things don’t “match.” Buy things over time rather than all at once.

 

Q: What is your “go to” paint color/ brand for a dining room?

A: I love wall paper in dining rooms.

 

Q: What is your “go to” paint color/ brand for a master bedroom?

A: Benjamin Moore Berkshire Beige

Q: What defines the Marin Country home style and what’s hot in home decor with the locals?

A: Interiors that feel warm and lived in.  Lots of reclaimed woods, linen and natural fibers, and more warm color palettes than cool.

 

Q: Do you have a favorite interior designer that inspires you?

A: I love Rose Tarlow, Vicente Wolf and Patricia Urquiola.

 

Q: Do you have a “blog to love” for interior design inspiration?

A: I read lots but Remodelista is a fav.

Marin County AREA GUIDE

What is your favorite spot for…

1. a sleepover | Milliken Creek Inn in Napa.

2. fresh-cut flowers | Floreal in San Francisco.

3. exercise or yoga | Pilates at the Bay Club in Corte Madera.

4. a cocktail | Balboa Cafe in downtown Mill Valley.

5. doing lunch | Le Garage in Sausalito.

6. a hostess gift | Moss + Moss Antiques in Mill Valley.

7. dinner out (with the kids)| Bar Bocce in Sausalito.

8. date night | Picco in Larkspur.

To contact Alison for her beautiful interior design services, click on jute…

 

 

 

 

 

Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous?  Ready to make your place a space that you adore?  I’d love to help make your house a home.  cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects.  Let’s chat info@cecyj.com