HOME DESIGN: Introducing our new design studio

I believe that for every designer the best project you can have is your own. This way you are your own client and you know exactly what you want and nobody has a veto power that will repress your creative ideas. In this case the project was our New studio now located in 1316 B Government Street in the heart of Downtown Victoria and just steps away from the new Design District.

When I was hunting for a new space to conceive our next studio I had some clear ideas in mind. I wanted a great location - you know what they say location, location, location... high ceilings, lots of character preferably an older building with my own entrance, east orientation (I myself love the morning light and I believe it is the best light to work with colour), hardwood flooring, a deck would be nice (who doesnt like to have lunch outside in the summer), a real storage room, a really nice little kitchenette, a space that reads classic but yet was contemporary, and a place where I could get my creative juices flowing in a laboratory of my own. I have always loved the word alchemy so why not to have a laboratory where I could create my own alchemy.

Just to keep the entry short and not boring, the hunt started in August and I have to say I just consider myself really lucky that the third place I visited had all of my wish list and even more. This place had excellent bones and a great history behind it. The place I found used to be the Pacific Opera Victoria (POV) home - it had already some talent of its own. I am not really fan of before and after photos but here is what the space looked like when I found it.

Echo and Tiffany checking out the new space

When Jeff saw the space he said "Are you sure this place will work? It is in a very rough shape." I answered YES! Its perfect.

I have this theory that a change its always good. I needed a space that I could make my own, a space where I could manage my own environment. And from there the journey of the new studio started. We had some bumps along the road, delays and some disappointments but also lots of good laughs, new ideas and the hope of having everything done as I envisioned it. Overall though, there was lots and lots of support from the people I have been working with for the last 6 years. I have to say that this entry is an homage to my trades people, my suppliers, my team and everybody who was involved in this project. Their time and their attention to detail is absolutely everywhere and I have to say that this has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. Thank you to all involved in the project !

Now, let me introduce our new studio...