My story
In my college apartment, I took on an unconventional project. I sewed together large pieces of denim fabric that I had found at an overstock store…. to make us a new living room floor. The floor in that apartment was far from aesthetically pleasing and desperately needed an upgrade, but unfortunately, I was short on funds, and my landlord offered no assistance. Despite the apartment's overall disarray, it held a special place in my heart as it was situated in the heart of Brooklyn and close to my community of friends. The outcome of my denim tapestry endeavor was nothing short of spectacular, evoking both admiration and laughter.
Looking back on that time, I see it as a perfect reflection of my design personality: creative, resourceful, quirky, intelligent, adventurous, and a lover of hands-on projects. I have a low tolerance for mediocrity, and I refuse to accept 'no' as an answer.
As a designer today, I find myself constantly drawn to solving real-life problems in unexpected and aesthetically pleasing ways. Whether it's reviving chairs sourced from Facebook Marketplace, refinishing thrift store stools, seeking out local artists to adorn my home with meaningful art, or collecting every conceivable basket and storage bin to bring order to our bustling household, my list of endeavors is ever-evolving.
My upbringing was characterized by a home where every room featured a different, bold color scheme. It instilled in me an appreciation for vibrant hues and their power to evoke emotions. These days, I approach color with intention, seeking harmony between saturated and clean spaces. When it comes to art and furniture, I'm not afraid to embrace bold choices, placing my trust in the artists' vision.
I derive immense satisfaction from blending historical pieces with contemporary lines, relishing the juxtaposition. Thrifting and second-hand shopping hold a special place in my heart, a value instilled by my parents who cherished the unique and the vintage. As a creative, I take pleasure in rescuing items from oblivion, uncovering their hidden beauty, or repurposing vintage treasures through paint and upholstery. Isn't it more meaningful to walk into a home filled with items that each tell a story of their own?
Thea, founder of Curated by Thea
