This is a new feature we're trying out on AT:SF. We ask designers, artists, shop/gallery owners, etc., a series of questions and present the answers to you, along with photos of their homes.
It comes as no surprise that Suzanne Shade's San Francisco home is filled with such amazing artwork. As the curator of The Beholder online art gallery, she provides emerging artists with a place to showcase their work. And, at the same time, she's making it a lot less daunting for many of us to buy original artwork.
The photo above is the living room of Suzanne's home in the Castro. More snapshots, as well as our Q&A with her, are below.
- How would you describe your decorating style?
Trying to be grown-up but not always making it.
- Favorite spot in your home and why?
I love standing in the kitchen and looking at the trees in my front yard.
- Favorite childhood memento that’s in your home?
A German family game board my dad made for me. Lot's of people confuse it for being a piece of art.
- Favorite travel keepsake?
My journals from trips to Japan and New Zealand.
- Favorite home/design magazines or websites?
Domino, The World of Interiors, Design*Sponge, my friend Victoria's site, sfgirlbybay.
- Best bargain in your home and where did you get it?
My Eames DCM chairs I got on eBay. I covered them in cowhide from S&H Leather in the Mission.
- Biggest splurge?
The Bellini dining room table my husband and I got at Limn.
- Favorite local resources for furniture and accessories?
The Apartment, Zinc Details, Big Pagoda Co, and anything at Swallowtail on Polk Street.
- What’s at the top of your list of things to buy next for your home?
Some really nice linens. Anyone have a good local source?
- What’s on your nightstand?
My CD collection. We've got a small space, so some things are admittedly in odd places.
- Current inspiration(s) for your work?
Any one of my friends who are running their own businesses.
They're my heroes!
- What advice would you give to someone just starting to collect artwork?
My best advice is that you should really love it. Like a good friend, it should make you happy and challenge you a little bit. Try not to impulse buy for a specific spot (this is tough). Adding a nice mirror to an empty wall might keep you from getting into trouble! A lot of galleries will lend you pieces for short periods. Don't feel timid about doing this... no one will feel bad if it doesn't work out.
Thanks so much for letting us peek into your home, Suzanne!
Oh, please share info about the art and artists in the shots!
view mschatelaine's profile
Does anyone know where that couch in the first photo is from? I like the clean look of the wood legs and but the shabbiness of the cushions.
view RJD's profile
having been to suzanne & rob's place, i can tell you every corner is lovely, including their lovely backyard!
and thanks for the mention, suzanne! :)
view sfgirlbybay's profile
Hey, It's Suzanne.... Here's some more info on art and other stuff: The print above the couch is mine and is British artist Julian Opie. The painting above the console is for sale and it is by Kate Mauldin. The photos in my bedroom are also on the Beholder and are by Patryce Bak. The couch is funny because that photo was taken before the cushions went from 'fashionably shabby' to 'Sanford and Son' which they are right now! Note to self: no more linen.
view shadey1's profile
strange question, but does anyone know what the antique wheeled "coffee table" is? Is it a mining cart? i've been looking for something similar and don't even know how to describe it or name it when searching. thanx for any ideas.
view cateyesnyc's profile