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Embracing Unconventional Beauty: The Design Philosophy of Phoebe Sung
Phoebe Sung, co-founder of Cold Picnic alongside her husband Peter Buer, finds inspiration in the concept of jolie-laide, a French term meaning "pretty-ugly." This aesthetic sensibility is evident in the products of Cold Picnic, from their striking rugs to their bold textiles. Sung describes their work as unconventional, bringing together unexpected color combinations and quirky motifs derived from childhood memories, literature, and film. Her mantra captures a unique perspective—beauty doesn’t always conform to norms.
A Family Life Intertwined with Design
Living between Ridgewood, Queens, and the Catskills, Sung and Buer balance their creative pursuits with family life. They have two daughters whose playful spirit is reflected in the whimsical designs of their home, which is also a showcase for Cold Picnic creations. The couple is currently experimenting with new bathmat designs that are both functional and fun—a testament to their design approach that prioritizes usability without compromising on aesthetics.
A Dodging of Convention: House Upgrades and Inspirations
When asked about their Best House Upgrade, Sung speaks of the transformative journey they’re on, highlighting the significant role their surroundings play in fueling creativity. For them, a space must embody various feelings, which ties into the segmented layout of their traditional townhome. By creating distinct atmospheres in different rooms, they foster a vibrant dialogue between their designs and daily interactions.
The Aesthetics That Stick: Influences from Film and Culture
In her recommendations for podcasts and playlists, Sung emphasizes the importance of light-heartedness in design. Her go-to is the podcast How Did This Get Made?, which provides comedic relief amid the challenges of creative work. Additionally, films like The Passenger and series like Station Eleven have left an imprint on her life, illustrating how visual storytelling plays a significant role in shaping one’s artistic vision and aesthetic choices.
Colorful Encounters with Materials and Design
With a focus on unique materials, the design philosophy of Cold Picnic combines beauty with functionality. As noted in designs shared by Architectural Digest, each chosen hue and texture serves a purpose—be it the peach Corian countertops in the kitchen or the vibrant colors of their custom-designed rugs. Through these innovative choices, Sung and Buer create spaces that feel individualized and intimate.
Anticipating the Future of Cold Picnic
Looking forward, Cold Picnic is expanding its product line beyond home textiles, which speaks to the adaptive nature of their brand. As they prepare to introduce new designs, the anticipation resonates with their loyal customer base, demonstrating the excitement of bringing fresh ideas into familiar spaces.
In Conclusion: The Importance of Personal Touch in Design
As homeowners contemplate renovations or design projects, insights from creative innovators like Phoebe Sung can inspire a more personal approach. Her belief in creating spaces that reflect one’s personality aligns perfectly with the goal of home design—a haven that feels authentic. Taking cues from the unconventional beauty of Cold Picnic can encourage homeowners to embrace individual quirks, making designs not just about aesthetics, but about the life lived within those walls.
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