Meet our Editor | Michelle Adams
Michelle at home with a collection of pieces from Artfully Walls. Photo by Marta Xochilt Perez.
We've loved having Michelle Adams as our resident blogger since the inception of The Artful Review, so today we thought we'd shine the spotlight on her! Years of design editing, as well as her own deep-rooted love of art, makes Michelle the natural choice to spearhead our blog. After cofounding Lonny, a trailblazer in the online-shelter-magazine category, Michelle was enlisted as domino magazine’s editor in chief to establish its integrated web and commerce presence. She recently launched The Maryn, her impeccably-curated seaside-inspired online shopping destination for the stylishly comfortable home. Below, we catch up with her on style, art and her thoughts on trends.
Michelle's home office, featuring Waves II by Greg Anthon. Photo by Marta Xochilt Perez.
ARTFUL REVIEW: How would you describe your personal style?
MICHELLE ADAMS: Eclectic! I often shop while traveling, and I'm inspired by many design eras and interiors I've seen all over the world. My home is filled with my favorite pieces and I make the look cohesive with a consistent color palette. I also avoid anything too cutesy or precious. Lastly, I really enjoy juxtapositions in design and in clothing, like an antique console paired with a modern piece of art, or a flowy skirt with a leather jacket.
As a fan of seaside living, Michelle gravitates toward art depicting water. Above in her living room she pairs Waves with Spray by Greg Anthon with Escape by Elaina Sullivan. Photo by Marta Xochilt Perez.
AR: Are there any dos and don'ts when it comes to decorating?
MA: DO surround yourself with things that make you happy, and DON'T worry about what's currently trending. Trends come and go, and typically aren't worth investing in.
Heated floors and tons of natural light make Michelle's master bath one of her favorite rooms in her house. Above the bath hangs a lantern that she purchased in college and has since moved with her to eleven apartments and one home. "I can't seem to part with it. It's such a cheerful piece!" says Adams. Photo by Marta Xochilt Perez
AR: What decorating trends are you excited for in 2017?
MA: While I don't typically invest in trends at a micro level (i.e. "pink is hot!" or "lacquer is in!") I do enjoy studying trends at a macro level as they are reflective of what is happening in the world around us. For the past 5 years or so, the macro trend of "less is more," and "conscious consumption" is one that continues to excite me. This includes buying high quality pieces that have a story and are built to last, supporting artists and makers globally and buying from small businesses. It's the kind trend that I respect and intend to stick with for years to come.
After nearly a decade of apartment dwelling in New York, Michelle was thrilled to design her first "real" kitchen and learn how to cook. Figs by Giulia Bianchi and Untitled by Pavel Feinstein add a splash of color to the whitewashed space. Photo by Marta Xochilt Perez
AR: What are some things to keep in mind when buying art for our homes?
MA: Buy what you love! And also, don't be afraid! I have so many friends who are afraid to buy a piece of art (yet spend endless amounts of money on clothing...) and who are also equally as afraid of putting a hole in the wall. So their homes are quite frankly a bit boring! It takes all of ten seconds to fill up a small hole from a nail if you feel you've made a mistake with placement, so don't be afraid. Art livens a space and shows your personality and interests. Plus if you love a piece, it will make you happy to see everyday. I've collected art for many years, and can't imagine my home without it.
A few of Michelle's all-time favorite pieces hang in her dining room. Photo by Marta Xochilt Perez
AR: What are your best tips for mixing and matching art?
MA: Keep scale in mind, use art to create focal points in each room, and if you'd like, try a common subject matter. In my home I have many pieces that depict water--from photography to oil paintings, line drawings, and even pieces made from resin. I also love to create trios with one modern piece, one photograph and one oil portrait. The combination feels balanced and collected over time.
In her guest room, Michelle uses an oversize photograph to create an immediate focal point. Photo by Marta Xochilt Perez.
AR: What's the The Artful Review all about?
MA: The Artful Review is a site for inspiration and context to show how art is connected to our everyday lives. We profile artists we admire, share homes that feature great art with clever placements, and highlight trends that are worth investing in.
Shop Michelle's 12 Essentials for the New Year
