JESSE CARRIER AND MARA MILLER
New York

How does living in New York City influence your designs?
Though New York may be thought of more often as a modern metropolis, it's also home to some of the most traditional designs and resources in America. Living and working in New York City offers the best of both worlds. While introducing us to emerging artists, architects and materials found nowhere else, New York is also host to the most incredible collections of traditional and classical designs. Whether it's a visit to the Wrightsman Galleries of period rooms at the Metropolitan Museum, or a stroll through one of the many landmark historic districts, you can't help but be inundated and inspired by GREAT design. Our work is very much influenced by the harmonious mix of old and new that we experience everyday in New York. We like to soften crisp, new architecture by introducing the patina of a few, unexpected antique pieces, or vice versa, interject some contemporary art into more traditional homes. It makes a space timeless as opposed to a time capsule.

What three words would you use to describe your designs?
In addition to dynamic? . . . Thoughtful, timeless, tailored.

How does your partnership influence/ synergize your design work?
Synergize Exactly the right word! At first glance, it may appear as though we are of one opinion, and in truth, we're more alike than we'd care to admit and often, unknowingly, coordinate our clothes. However, I find that it's our differences that make our work together stronger. While there's nothing wrong with a solo, a duet is much more interesting! We each have different strengths and perspectives which challenge and compliment one another. The results are dynamic in every sense of the word.

What trends do you anticipate, or already see catching on?
I predict a "back to basics" trend. Given the current economic climate, opulence is out (even if you can afford it!). I think we will see a return to more simple, basic, and honest design that's comfortable and relaxed, focusing on family and home, the bedrock of life.

How are you incorporating green design into your work?
As much as possible, we try to engage goods and services that are local to our projects, and promote the use of sustainable materials, like reclaimed tiles or wood floor boards, or slab materials made from recycled materials. There are lots of beautiful and COMFORTABLE upholstery and fabric lines now that offer organic and green options.

Traditional Home April 2009
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